15 Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy (For First-Time Moms)

April 28, 2025 • 6 MIN READ

Pagod ka na ba sa kaka-guess kung buntis ka nga ba o hindi? Don’t worry, you’re not alone — every first-time mom has been there. While pregnancy tests and ultrasounds are the only ways to confirm pregnancy for sure, your body might already be giving you early clues. And as your trusted pregnancy companion, we’re here to guide you through those signs — calmly, clearly, and with care.

Wait, When Does Pregnancy Actually Start?

Here’s something surprising: doctors count your pregnancy starting from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) — even if you weren’t technically pregnant yet. That means in the early weeks, you might not feel any symptoms at all.

Now, let’s walk through 15 early signs that might signal that a baby is on the way:

1. Cramping and Spotting (Implantation Bleeding)

Around 10 to 14 days after conception, some women experience light bleeding or spotting. This is called implantation bleeding.

Signs to look for:

🔹 Color: Pink, red, or brown
🔹 Flow: Light lang, not like your usual period
🔹 Pain: Mild cramps, sometimes mistaken for period pain
🔹 Duration: Can last a few hours or up to 2 days

Hindi lahat ng babae ay nakakaranas nito, so don't worry kung hindi mo ito naranasan.

2. Missed Period

This is usually the first and most obvious sign. Once implantation happens, your body starts producing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) — the hormone that stops your period and supports your pregnancy.

Home pregnancy tests can usually detect this hormone about one week after your missed period.

3. Elevated Basal Body Temperature

If you’ve been tracking your temperature, you might notice it stays higher than usual after ovulation. That’s because your core temperature rises due to hormonal changes.

Tip: Stay hydrated and avoid overheating, lalo na sa mainit na panahon.

4. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired? You can thank rising progesterone levels. This hormone helps maintain the pregnancy but can leave you feeling like you’ve just run a marathon.

Pro Tip: Get as much rest as you can. Try to sleep early, and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

5. Faster Heartbeat

Between weeks 8 to 10, your heart works harder to pump more blood — about 50% more than usual! This can cause mild palpitations or a fluttering feeling.

If you have any heart conditions, talk to your doctor early on for guidance.

6. Breast Changes

By weeks 4 to 6, your breasts may feel tender or swollen. Around week 11, your areolas may darken and enlarge.

Helpful Tips:

Wear a soft, wireless bra
Use bra pads if you experience nipple discomfort
Expect your size to change — flexibility is key!

7. Mood Swings

One moment you’re laughing, the next — umiiyak ka na. It’s totally normal. Elevated estrogen and progesterone levels affect your mood and emotions.

You might feel:

Moodiness
Anxiety
Happiness
Irritability

Remember: Hindi ka nag-iisa. Your emotions are valid, and part of the journey.

8. Frequent Urination

More blood flow means more fluid passing through your kidneys — and yes, more trips to the bathroom.

Plan ahead kung lalabas ka, and always keep a bottle of water with you.

9. Bloating and Constipation

Hormonal shifts slow down your digestion, which can cause bloating or constipation.

Pro Tip: Stay active and eat more fiber-rich foods like prunes, leafy greens, and whole grains.

10. Morning Sickness

It usually kicks in around week 4 to 6 and may peak by week 9. Despite its name, it can strike anytime of the day or night.

Kung nahihirapan ka, try small frequent meals and sip ginger tea. Most moms feel better by the second trimester.

11. Headaches

More hormones + increased blood = more chances of headaches. Some women experience more migraines, while others feel fewer.

Stay hydrated, and rest when you can.

12. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

When you stand up too fast, blood pressure drops can make you feel dizzy.

Tip: Move slowly when changing positions and avoid standing for long periods.

13. Backaches

Lower back pain can start early, especially as your body begins adjusting to the changes in your uterus and hormone levels.

14. Food Cravings or Aversions

Suddenly craving sinigang? Or can’t stand the smell of your favorite ulam? Hormones again! It’s common for tastes to shift in early pregnancy.

15. Emotional Sensitivity

Pregnancy hormones can amplify your feelings. One moment you feel on top of the world, and the next, parang gusto mo na lang umiyak.

Allow yourself grace — this is a journey, and every emotion is part of the ride.

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

If your period is late and you’re noticing some of these signs, it’s a good idea to take a home pregnancy test. For the most accurate results, wait at least one week after your missed period.