Bloating is a common early pregnancy sign. In some cases, bloating can occur even before the first missed period. During early pregnancy, the hormone progesterone increases to prepare the uterus. Progesterone also slows digestion, which can trap the gas in the intestines that may cause abdominal bloating.

Some women do notice signs and symptoms that implantation has occurred. Signs may include light bleeding, cramping, nausea, bloating, sore breasts, headaches, mood swings, and possibly a change in basal body temperature.

A fresher bleed will appear as a shade of light or dark red. Blood may look pink or orange if it’s mixed with other vaginal discharge. Older blood may look brown due to oxidation.

Less common signs of early pregnancy can include: Spotting (also called implantation bleeding): Though it may seem like a bad sign, light bleeding (spotting) can be a sign that your embryo has implanted in the lining of your uterus. Implantation takes place several days after conception.

Pain in the upper stomach Pain just under the ribs is common in later pregnancy because your baby is growing and the uterus is pushing up under the ribs. But if this pain is bad or persistent, particularly on the right side, it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.

Once you become pregnant, your uterus will begin to grow. As it does this, you’ll likely feel mild to moderate cramping in your lower abdomen or lower back. This may feel like pressure, stretching, or pulling. It may even be similar to your typical menstrual cramps.

For many people, feeling nauseous in the morning – or, afternoon or evening – is one of their first signs of pregnancy. Nausea – with or without vomiting – can occur any time of day beginning as soon as three weeks after conception and it’s one of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy.

It occurs anywhere from six to 12 days after the egg is fertilized. The cramps resemble menstrual cramps, so some women mistake them and the bleeding for the start of their period.

Missed or late periods happen for many reasons other than pregnancy. Common causes can range from hormonal imbalances to serious medical conditions. There are also two times in a woman’s life when it’s totally normal for her period to be irregular: when it first begins, and when menopause starts.

Your symptoms can be related to different gynecological conditions including pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, and the menopausal transition. An upset stomach can accompany a missed menstrual period or can be a sign of early pregnancy.