The first signs of pregnancy often appear as early as one to two weeks after conception, though timing and symptoms vary among individuals. Common early signs include:

• Missed period: Often the earliest and most reliable sign, especially for those with regular cycles. Some may experience light spotting called implantation bleeding around the time their period is due

• Tender, swollen breasts: Hormonal changes can cause breast soreness, swelling, or darkening of the areolas, sometimes starting as early as two weeks after conception

• Nausea or morning sickness: Usually begins around 4 to 6 weeks after conception but can occur earlier or later. Despite the name, nausea can happen any time of day

• Fatigue: Rising progesterone levels often cause tiredness during the first trimester

• Frequent urination: Increased blood volume and kidney activity lead to more frequent urination

• Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations can cause emotional changes such as irritability or tearfulness

• Heightened sense of smell and food aversions: Sensitivity to odors and changes in food preferences may appear early, sometimes even before a missed period

• Light cramping and bloating: Mild cramps and digestive changes similar to premenstrual symptoms can occur early on

• Other signs: Some women notice a metallic taste in the mouth, excess saliva, or changes in cervical mucus

Because symptoms vary widely and can overlap with premenstrual signs, taking a pregnancy test and consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to confirm pregnancy

. In summary, the earliest and most common signs of pregnancy include a missed period, breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, and frequent urination, with other symptoms like mood swings, smell sensitivity, and light spotting also possible within the first few weeks after conception.