Very early signs of pregnancy at 1 week: What to expect after conception

Finding out you're pregnant can be thrilling and a little overwhelming, especially in the early stages. The very early signs of pregnancy can be so subtle that many don't even realise they're expecting.

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Technically, this week marks the start of your pregnancy journey, even though conception occurred just days ago. You’re probably on high alert, googling every little symptom and wondering what’s going on inside your body and when pregnancy symptoms start.

Changes in your belly at week 1

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Your belly won’t show any visible signs of pregnancy one week after conception. However, it’s already hard at work preparing for the baby.

Implantation

Around this time, the fertilised egg, now a blastocyst, travels down the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining. This process can cause light spotting or bleeding, known as implantation bleeding, often mistaken for a light period.

Hormonal changes

Your body starts producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. This hormone helps maintain the uterine lining and signals your ovaries to stop releasing eggs. Additionally, levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise to support early pregnancy.

Uterine changes

The uterine lining thickens to create a nurturing environment for the developing embryo. You might not feel any changes, but these early developments are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

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Pregnancy symptoms at week 1

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One week after conception, you might start noticing some very early pregnancy symptoms. Besides a positive result on a pregnancy test, here are some other early pregnancy symptoms.

Implantation bleeding

Some women experience light bleeding or spotting as a pregnancy symptom when the fertilised egg implants in the uterine lining. This usually occurs around 6-12 days after conception and is typically lighter and shorter than a normal menstrual period.

Mild cramps

Mild cramping is another one of the early pregnancy symptoms and can occur as the embryo implants into the uterine lining. These cramps are usually less intense than menstrual cramps and can be accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

Breast tenderness

Hormonal changes can cause your breasts to feel tender, swollen, or sore. This is similar to what you might experience before your menstrual period, but it can be more pronounced in early pregnancy.

Fatigue

Increased levels of progesterone can make you feel more tired than usual and can be one of the early signs of pregnancy. Your body is working hard to support the early stages of pregnancy, which can lead to increased fatigue.

Nausea

Although it’s commonly referred to as morning sickness, nausea can occur at any time of the day. Some women start to experience mild nausea as early as one week after conception, although it’s more common a few weeks later.

Frequent urination

As your body produces more blood and the kidneys process extra fluid, you might need to urinate more often. This symptom can start early in pregnancy and continue throughout.

Mood swings

Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood swings as one of your pregnancy symptoms. You might feel unusually emotional or irritable as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels.

These early symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some women might experience several signs, while others might notice very few. Paying attention to your body and recognising these early changes can help you understand what to expect in the weeks ahead.

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Finding out you're pregnant

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One week after conception, you might be eager to find out if you’re pregnant. Although it’s still very early, a modern pregnancy test is highly sensitive and can detect pregnancy hormones in your body.

Home pregnancy tests

A home pregnancy test works by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining. This pregnancy test is designed to be easy to use and provide quick results.

When to test: For the most accurate results, it’s recommended to wait until the first day of your missed period to take a home pregnancy test. However, some tests are sensitive enough to detect hCG a few days before your missed period.

How to test: Follow the instructions on the test package. Typically, you will need to hold the test stick in your urine stream or dip it into a cup of collected urine. Wait for the specified amount of time, usually a few minutes, and then read the result.

Interpreting results: Most tests display results as lines, plus or minus signs, or digital readings that say “pregnant” or “not pregnant.” A positive result, even if faint, usually indicates pregnancy. If the result is negative and you still suspect you’re pregnant, wait a few days and test again. Having consumed large amounts of water to produce urine for the pregnancy test can sometimes lead to a false negative.

Blood tests

Blood tests are another way to confirm pregnancy and are typically performed by a healthcare provider. There are two types of blood tests:

Qualitative hCG test: This test simply checks for the presence of hCG and gives a yes or no answer to whether you are pregnant.

Quantitative hCG test: Also known as a beta hCG test, this measures the exact amount of hCG in your blood. It can detect very low levels of hCG and is useful for tracking the progress of the pregnancy.

Blood tests can detect pregnancy earlier than home urine tests, usually about 6-8 days after ovulation. Your healthcare provider might recommend a blood test if you have a high risk of pregnancy complications or need confirmation following a home test.

Tips for 1 week after conception

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As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s important to take care of yourself and prepare for the changes ahead. Here are some comprehensive tips to help you navigate the first week after conception once you have your positive pregnancy test.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial, especially during early pregnancy. Water helps maintain amniotic fluid levels, supports increased blood volume, and aids in nutrient transport to your baby. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to remind yourself to drink regularly.

Eat a balanced diet

Your body needs extra nutrients to support your growing baby. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Include foods high in folic acid, such as leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals, to help prevent neural tube defects. Iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, and lentils are also important to support increased blood volume.

Take prenatal vitamins

Even with a healthy diet, it can be challenging to get all the necessary nutrients. Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated to provide essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA. If you haven’t already, start taking a prenatal vitamin daily and consult your healthcare provider for recommendations.

Get plenty of rest

Your body is working hard to support early pregnancy, and fatigue is a common symptom. Make sure to get plenty of rest and listen to your body. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and consider taking short naps during the day if needed. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine can help improve the quality of your sleep.

Manage stress

Stress can affect your overall health and your pregnancy. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise. Make time for activities you enjoy and surround yourself with supportive people. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a counsellor or therapist.

Avoid harmful substances

It’s essential to avoid substances that can harm your developing baby as soon as you have a missed period. This includes alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs. Limit your intake of caffeine to 200 mg per day. Be cautious with over-the-counter medications and supplements; always consult your healthcare provider before taking anything new.

Monitor your symptoms

Pay attention to your body and any symptoms you experience. While mild cramping and spotting can be normal, severe pain or heavy bleeding should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. Keep track of any changes and communicate them during your prenatal visits.

Exercise regularly

Staying active is beneficial for both you and your baby. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.

Plan your prenatal care

Schedule your first prenatal visit if you haven’t done so already. Early prenatal care is essential for monitoring your baby’s development and addressing concerns. Your healthcare provider will likely perform a physical exam, confirm your pregnancy with a blood test or ultrasound, and discuss your medical history.

Educate yourself

Knowledge is empowering. Take time to educate yourself about pregnancy and childbirth. Read books, attend prenatal classes, and join online forums or support groups. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared for the months ahead.

1-week pregnant checklist

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• Track your menstrual cycle
• Stock up on healthy snacks
• Purchase a pregnancy test
• Avoid high-impact exercises
• Prepare for morning sickness
• Review medication safety
• Start a pregnancy journal
• Research healthcare providers
• Prepare for hydration
• Plan a relaxation routine

Sources:

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Pregnancy – week by week, Better Health Channel. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-week-by-week

Revealing the very early signs and symptoms of pregnancy, (2024), Dr Kothari Wollongong Obstetrics & Gynaecology. Available at: https://www.wollongongobgy.com.au/revealing-the-very-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-pregnancy/