It's week 6 and you may be feeling tired and nauseous. Here are some common pregnancy symptoms you're likely to be dealing with.

Missed period

Missing a period if you've always been regular is usually a good indication that you might be pregnant. So if you're sexually active and have just missed a period, it's time to buy a pregnancy test!

Light bleeding

Some women may experience spotting or light bleeding during week 5, when the embryo implants itself into the lining of the womb. Do see your doctor if you're worried.

Nausea

This is probably the most common indication that you're pregnant, and it usually peaks at 8–10 weeks. It's not harmful for your developing baby, although you might lose some weight. If you're dealing with severe symptoms, see a doctor. He may prescribe you with anti-vomiting medications.

Fatigue

Feeling tired is an early symptom of pregnancy as your body is working harder to prepare itself for the next few months. If you're a first-time mum, this fatigue is totally different from any tiredness you've felt before. But don't worry, it is also a way of adjusting to the emotional and physical demands of pregnancy. The good news is that this will improve as the pregnancy progresses.

Headaches and backaches

It's common to feel a dull backache throughout your entire pregnancy, which can increase in intensity as your baby grows. You may also get headaches due to the increase in hormone production. It's OK to take an over-the-counter paracetamol to ease your pain. If it gets severe, bed rest may help. If your backache worsens or you start feeling a shooting pain down the back of your legs, see your doctor.


Explore more

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• Management of common pregnancy symptoms
  
• Morning sickness: should you be worried?
  
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• What to know about vaginal discharge during pregnancy
  

By Associate Professor TAN Thiam Chye Head & Senior Consultant, Dr TAN Shu Qi Senior O&G Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital

Sources:
The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific
Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore

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