Early Pregnancy: Common Symptoms and What to Do
Early pregnancy brings many changes—some exciting, some uncomfortable. Read on to learn more about common symptoms you may experience and simple ways to care for yourself. If anything feels unusual or concerning, always reach out to your care team.
Nausea (Morning Sickness)
Morning sickness is very common in the first three months of pregnancy (the first trimester), but some people continue to feel sick for longer.
What You May Notice
- Feeling sick in the morning—or all day
- Stronger reactions to smells
- Feeling like you need to spit
What You Can Do
- Eat a few crackers or dry cereal before getting out of bed.
- Eat small meals every two to three hours, to keep food in your stomach.
- Choose plain foods, and avoid greasy or fried foods.
- Drink fluids in between meals, instead of with food.
In some people, stomach upset during pregnancy is so severe and lasts for so long that it can endanger their health or their baby’s health (a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum). Call the BMC OB/GYN department at 617.414.2000 or go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following:
- You feel dizzy or faint when standing up.
- Your heart is racing or pounding.
- You can’t eat or drink without throwing up.
- You are vomiting blood.
- You are peeing only a little, and your pee is dark yellow.
There are pregnancy-safe medications that can help!
Breast Changes
What You May Notice
- Breasts get larger, heavy, or more tender
- Nipples become darker and grow larger
- Leaking early milk (colostrum) as your body prepares for breastfeeding
What You Can Do
- Wear a supportive, well-fitting bra—go up a size if needed.
Feeling Tired
What You May Notice
- Feeling very tired, wanting to sleep often
What You Can Do
- Take naps when you can.
- Go to bed earlier.
- Avoid digital screens for 30 minutes before bedtime.
Urinating More Often
What You May Notice
- Needing to pee more often
- Pressure on your bladder as your uterus grows
What You Can Do
- Limit caffeine (coffee, tea, soda), which can make you urinate more.
Headaches
What You May Notice
- More pain in your head
What You Can Do
- Drink at least eight cups (64 oz.) of water daily.
- Eat healthy food every two to three hours.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol and Extra-Strength Tylenol) is usually safe to take during early pregnancy.
Do not use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) unless your provider tells you otherwise.
Learn More about Pregnancy-Safe Medications
Mood Changes
What You May Notice
- You may feel happy one moment and anxious the next.
What You Can Do
- Talk about your feelings with someone you trust.
- Ask for help if you need support.
Your Body
