Early Signs of Pregnancy
These symptoms might show up in the first few weeks:
- Missed Period - The most obvious sign for women with regular cycles
- Light Spotting - Small amount of bleeding when the egg attaches (implantation bleeding)
- Tender Breasts - Your breasts might feel sore or swollen
- Morning Sickness - Nausea that can happen any time of day (usually starts around week 6)
- Fatigue - Feeling more tired than usual
- Frequent Urination - Needing to pee more often
- Food Cravings or Aversions - Suddenly loving or hating certain foods
- Mood Swings - Hormones can make emotions feel more intense
- Mild Cramping - Light cramps as your uterus starts to expand
Note: These signs vary from person to person. The only way to know for sure is to take a pregnancy test. If you think you might be pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy Tips & Advice
Schedule Your First Appointment
Call your doctor as soon as you find out you're pregnant. Your first prenatal visit usually happens around 8 weeks.
Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Folic acid is super important in early pregnancy. Start taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400mcg of folic acid.
Eat Healthy Foods
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Stay away from raw fish, undercooked meat, and unpasteurized cheese.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for 8-10 glasses to stay hydrated and help with common pregnancy symptoms.
Understanding Pregnancy Calculation
How Pregnancy Due Dates Are Calculated
Most pregnancies last about 280 days, or 40 weeks, from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). This is the standard method doctors use because it's easier to remember when your period started than to pinpoint exactly when you got pregnant. Even though you weren't actually pregnant during your period, those two weeks still count toward your 40-week pregnancy.
Different Calculation Methods
There are a few ways to calculate your due date:
- Last Menstrual Period (LMP) - The most common method. Add 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of your last period.
- Conception Date - If you know when you conceived, add 266 days (38 weeks). This is useful if you were tracking ovulation.
- Ultrasound Dating - Your doctor can measure the baby during an ultrasound to estimate your due date. This is the most accurate method, especially if done in the first trimester.
- IVF Transfer Date - For IVF pregnancies, your doctor will calculate based on when the embryo was transferred.
Understanding Trimesters
Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each about 13 weeks long. The first trimester (weeks 1-13) is when the baby's organs form and morning sickness is common. The second trimester (weeks 14-27) is usually when you feel best and start showing. The third trimester (weeks 28-40) is when the baby grows the most and you might feel more uncomfortable as your due date approaches.
How Accurate Are Due Dates?
Only about 5% of babies arrive on their actual due date. Most babies come within two weeks before or after. Your due date is really more of a "due month" - doctors consider anything from 37 to 42 weeks to be full term. First-time moms often go a little past their due date, while second or third babies sometimes come a bit earlier.
When to Confirm with Your Doctor
This calculator gives you a good estimate, but your healthcare provider will confirm your due date with an ultrasound, usually done between 8 and 12 weeks. The ultrasound measurement is the most accurate, especially if you're not sure about your last period date or have irregular cycles. Don't worry if your doctor adjusts your due date after the ultrasound - that's completely normal.