Pregnancy Symptoms by Week: What to Expect from Conception to Birth
Pregnancy is an incredible transformation — but it can also feel confusing when your body starts changing in ways you didn’t expect. Knowing what symptoms are normal at each stage can help you feel more prepared and less anxious.
This guide walks you through pregnancy symptoms by week, from early implantation signs to late third-trimester changes. Keep in mind that every pregnancy is unique — you may experience some, all, or none of these symptoms, and that can still be completely healthy.
Weeks 1–2: Before You Know You’re Pregnant
During weeks one and two, your body is preparing for ovulation and possible implantation. You may notice bloating, breast tenderness, mild cramping, fatigue, and emotional sensitivity that feels similar to PMS. These symptoms are driven by rising estrogen and progesterone levels. Support options include prioritizing rest, staying well hydrated, and eating mineral-rich foods. Gentle remedies sometimes used include Arnica for uterine soreness and Sepia for hormonal heaviness or mood changes.
Common symptoms:
Mild bloating
Breast tenderness
Increased vaginal discharge
Subtle pelvic discomfort
Mood changes
These symptoms are often mistaken for premenstrual symptoms.
Week 3: Implantation Begins
Implantation may occur this week as the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Some people notice light spotting, mild cramping, fatigue, and a heightened sense of smell or taste. These symptoms are caused by early hormonal shifts and increased blood flow to the uterus. Gentle support includes reducing strenuous activity and increasing fluids. Homeopathic-style remedies often suggested include Belladonna for cramping with warmth and Pulsatilla for emotional sensitivity.
Possible symptoms:
Light spotting (implantation bleeding)
Mild cramping
Fatigue
Heightened sense of smell
Increased basal body temperature
Many people still don’t realize they are pregnant at this stage.
Week 4: Missed Period
By week four, hCG levels are rising rapidly and a missed period is often the first sign of pregnancy. Symptoms may include breast tenderness, nausea, frequent urination, bloating, and exhaustion. You may also feel more emotional than usual. Support options include small, frequent meals and gentle movement. Remedies sometimes used include Nux vomica for nausea with irritability and Sepia for hormonal fatigue and pelvic heaviness.
Common symptoms:
Missed period
Breast soreness
Fatigue
Nausea
Frequent urination
Mood swings
Hormones such as hCG and progesterone begin rising rapidly.
Week 5: Hormones Surge
Hormonal changes intensify this week as the placenta begins forming. Many experience nausea, smell sensitivity, food aversions, bloating, and mood swings. Fatigue can feel overwhelming. Eating protein-rich snacks, sipping ginger or lemon water, and resting often can help. Gentle remedies sometimes chosen include Ipecacuanha for persistent nausea and Pulsatilla for food aversions and emotional swings.
Pregnancy symptoms:
Nausea or vomiting
Metallic taste in mouth
Heightened smell sensitivity
Exhaustion
Emotional sensitivity
Bloating
Morning sickness can start as early as week 5.
Week 6: Morning Sickness Peaks
Morning sickness often peaks around this time. Vomiting, constipation, cramping, breast soreness, and food intolerance are common. Digestive slowing contributes to bloating and discomfort. Support includes warm soups, acupressure bands, hydration, and gentle stretching. Remedies sometimes used are Nux vomica for digestive upset and Colocynthis for cramping relieved by warmth or bending forward.
Symptoms:
Strong nausea
Vomiting
Breast enlargement
Cramping
Constipation
Food aversions
Hormonal shifts slow digestion, which can worsen nausea and bloating.
Week 7: Digestive Changes
Morning sickness often peaks around this time. Vomiting, constipation, cramping, breast soreness, and food intolerance are common. Digestive slowing contributes to bloating and discomfort. Support includes warm soups, acupressure bands, hydration, and gentle stretching. Remedies sometimes used are Nux vomica for digestive upset and Colocynthis for cramping relieved by warmth or bending forward.
Symptoms:
Heartburn
Gas
Constipation
Saliva production increase
Fatigue
Breast tenderness
Your uterus is growing and putting pressure on surrounding organs.
Week 8: Emotional and Physical Fatigue
Blood volume is increasing and the placenta is developing, which can lead to dizziness, headaches, acne, and emotional ups and downs. Fatigue is still common, and nausea may persist. Supporting circulation with hydration, electrolytes, and rest can help. Remedies sometimes chosen include Ferrum phosphoricum for fatigue and Natrum muriaticum for tension headaches.
Symptoms:
Fatigue
Dizziness
Headaches
Emotional sensitivity
Nausea
Acne or skin changes
This is a common week for emotional ups and downs.
Week 9: Heightened Sensitivity
Senses may feel intensified, especially smell and taste. Pelvic pressure, nausea, bloating, and mild cramping are common as the uterus grows. You may also feel emotionally sensitive or overwhelmed. Wearing loose clothing, avoiding triggers, and resting often can provide relief. Remedies sometimes used include Pulsatilla for smell-triggered nausea and Sepia for pelvic heaviness.
Symptoms:
Strong food aversions
Sensitivity to smells
Increased saliva
Mild pelvic pressure
Bloating
Cramping
Many people experience their worst nausea between weeks 8 and 10.
Week 10: Uterus Expands
The uterus continues expanding, which may cause round ligament pain, visible bloating, and more frequent urination. Breast tenderness and fatigue may continue. Support includes prenatal stretching, warm compresses, and posture awareness. Remedies often chosen are Ruta graveolens for ligament pain and Arnica for pelvic or muscle soreness.
Symptoms:
Visible bloating
Round ligament pain
Frequent urination
Breast soreness
Fatigue
Mood swings
Your risk of miscarriage decreases significantly after this week.
Week 11: Energy May Improve
Hormones begin stabilizing for some people, leading to reduced nausea, though constipation and headaches may persist. Energy levels may improve slightly. Supporting digestion with hydration and fiber remains helpful. Remedies sometimes used include Bryonia for constipation with headaches and Natrum muriaticum for dehydration-related symptoms.
Symptoms:
Reduced nausea
Less fatigue
Heartburn
Mild headaches
Constipation
Hormones remain high but begin leveling out.
Week 12: End of First Trimester
The first trimester ends and many feel a boost in energy and appetite. Breast changes, mild bloating, and emotional steadiness may occur. Support includes balanced meals and gentle exercise. Remedies sometimes chosen include Calcarea carbonica for appetite changes and Sepia for lingering hormonal fatigue.
Symptoms:
Increased appetite
Reduced nausea
Bloating
Headaches
Breast changes
Emotional stabilization
You may begin feeling more confident and energetic.
Second Trimester Symptoms by Week
Often called the “honeymoon trimester,” the second trimester usually brings relief from early pregnancy symptoms.
Week 13–14: Energy Returns
Energy often returns as nausea fades. The belly begins to round and mild aches or pelvic stretching can occur. Libido may increase and mood often improves. Support includes prenatal yoga and hydration. Remedies sometimes used include Arnica for muscle soreness and Pulsatilla for emotional balance.
Symptoms:
Reduced nausea
Improved appetite
Increased libido
Mild pelvic pressure
Visible belly growth
Your uterus is rising out of the pelvis.
Week 15–16: Baby Movement Begins
You may begin feeling fluttering movements, called quickening. Nasal congestion, back discomfort, and increased discharge are common. Support includes posture support, saline nasal spray, and light exercise. Remedies sometimes chosen include Euphrasia for congestion and Ruta for lower back strain.
Symptoms:
Round ligament pain
Back discomfort
Nasal congestion
Increased vaginal discharge
Growing belly
Week 17–18: Skin and Hair Changes
Skin and hair changes may appear due to increased blood flow. Swelling in hands or feet and breast growth are common. Support includes elevating legs and moisturizing skin. Remedies sometimes used include Apis mellifica for swelling and Silicea for skin support.
Symptoms:
Glowing skin
Thickened hair
Breast growth
Mild swelling
Varicose veins
Blood volume increases by up to 50% during pregnancy.
Week 19–20: Anatomy Scan Time
Halfway through pregnancy, stretch marks, leg cramps, heartburn, and belly itching may occur. Baby movement becomes more noticeable. Support includes magnesium-rich foods, smaller meals, and hydration. Remedies sometimes chosen include Magnesia phosphorica for cramps and Arsenicum album for reflux.
Symptoms:
Stretch marks
Belly itching
Heartburn
Leg cramps
Fetal movement
You may begin to feel baby regularly.
Week 21–22: Stronger Kicks
Stronger fetal movement and occasional Braxton Hicks contractions may begin. Back pain, shortness of breath, and swelling can occur. Support includes belly breathing, hydration, and a support belt. Remedies sometimes used include Caulophyllum for uterine tightening and Arnica for back strain.
Symptoms:
Stronger fetal movement
Lower back pain
Braxton Hicks contractions
Swollen feet
Shortness of breath
Your uterus now reaches the belly button.
Week 23–24: Sleep Disruptions
Sleep may become difficult due to rib pain, restless legs, or frequent urination. Heartburn and swelling may increase. Support includes side sleeping with pillows and warm foot soaks. Remedies sometimes chosen include Passiflora for sleep and Zincum metallicum for restless legs.
Symptoms:
Trouble sleeping
Restless legs
Rib pain
Heartburn
Swelling in ankles
Blood pressure may begin to shift slightly.
Week 25–26: Belly Growth Spurt
Rapid growth can cause hemorrhoids, constipation, and itchy skin. Fatigue may return. Support includes fiber, hydration, and oatmeal baths. Remedies sometimes used include Hamamelis for hemorrhoids and Sulphur for skin itching.
Symptoms:
Itchy belly
Back pain
Leg cramps
Hemorrhoids
Constipation
Baby begins developing fat stores.
Week 27: End of Second Trimester
As the second trimester ends, pelvic pressure, Braxton Hicks contractions, and tiredness may increase. You may feel heavier and slower. Support includes rest breaks and gentle movement. Remedies sometimes chosen include Sepia for pelvic heaviness and Calcarea phosphorica for fatigue.
Symptoms:
Increased fatigue
Braxton Hicks contractions
Pelvic pressure
Shortness of breath
Frequent urination
You may feel heavier and slower.
Third Trimester Symptoms by Week
The third trimester focuses on preparation for birth.
Week 28–30: Baby Gains Weight
Rib pain, shortness of breath, swelling, and heartburn are common as the uterus pushes upward. Sleep may be disrupted. Support includes upright posture, smaller meals, and foot elevation. Remedies sometimes used include Apis for swelling and Arsenicum album for reflux.
Symptoms:
Rib pain
Difficulty breathing
Swelling
Heartburn
Insomnia
Your uterus pushes upward toward your lungs.
Week 31–32: Nesting Urges
Nesting urges may appear along with anxiety and bursts of energy. Back pain and Braxton Hicks contractions may continue. Support includes pacing activities and relaxation practices. Remedies sometimes chosen include Ignatia for emotional stress and Arnica for muscle fatigue.
Symptoms:
Anxiety about birth
Fatigue
Braxton Hicks
Back pain
Pelvic pressure
Some experience bursts of energy known as nesting.
Week 33–34: Digestive Slowdown
Digestive pressure can cause constipation and bloating. Colostrum leakage and shortness of breath are common. Support includes hydration and warm teas. Remedies sometimes used include Calcarea carbonica for heaviness and Pulsatilla for hormonal shifts.
Symptoms:
Constipation
Bloating
Shortness of breath
Insomnia
Breast leakage
Colostrum may begin leaking.
Week 35–36: Baby Drops
As baby drops lower, pelvic pressure, waddling, and frequent urination increase. Breathing may feel easier. Support includes hip circles and pelvic stretches. Remedies sometimes chosen include Arnica for muscle strain and Caulophyllum for uterine tone.
Symptoms:
Increased pelvic pressure
Easier breathing
Frequent urination
Rectal pressure
Lower back pain
You may feel more unstable while walking.
Week 37–38: Early Labor Signs
Early labor signs such as increased discharge, mucus plug loss, and irregular contractions may appear. You may feel emotionally sensitive or restless. Support includes warm showers and hydration. Remedies sometimes used include Gelsemium for anticipation anxiety and Kali carbonicum for back discomfort.
Symptoms:
Loss of mucus plug
Increased discharge
Braxton Hicks intensifying
Cervical pressure
Emotional changes
Some experience diarrhea as the body prepares for labor.
Week 39: Waiting Game
Fatigue, insomnia, pelvic pain, and nesting behaviors are common as the body prepares for labor. Support includes walking, meditation, and gentle stretching. Remedies sometimes chosen include Cimicifuga for pelvic discomfort and Pulsatilla for emotional balance.
Symptoms:
Fatigue
Insomnia
Pelvic pain
Braxton Hicks
Nesting behaviors
You may feel restless and eager for labor to begin.
Week 40: Due Date Approaches
Contractions may begin, pressure increases, and emotions may run high. Some experience diarrhea or nausea as labor approaches. Support includes deep breathing, rest, and hydration. Remedies sometimes used include Arnica for uterine soreness and Pulsatilla for emotional steadiness.
Symptoms:
Strong pelvic pressure
Irregular contractions
Lower back pain
Emotional sensitivity
Possible labor onset
Only about 5% of babies are born on their exact due date.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms by Category
Digestive Symptoms
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Heartburn
Gas
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Back pain
Pelvic pain
Joint loosening
Leg cramps
Emotional Symptoms
Mood swings
Anxiety
Emotional sensitivity
Irritability
Circulatory Symptoms
Swelling
Varicose veins
Dizziness
Nosebleeds
When to Call Your Provider
Some symptoms are normal — others need immediate attention.
Contact your provider if you experience:
Heavy bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
High fever
Persistent vomiting
Severe swelling
Vision changes
Reduced fetal movement
Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it’s always okay to call.
Safety Reminder for Readers
Natural and homeopathic remedies:
✔ should be used gently
✔ should never replace medical care
✔ should be approved by your provider
✔ work best alongside rest, hydration, and nutrition
Seek medical care for:
Bleeding
Fever
Severe pain
Vision changes
Reduced fetal movement
Why Symptoms Vary by Person
Pregnancy symptoms differ based on:
Hormone sensitivity
First vs. subsequent pregnancies
Overall health
Stress levels
Genetics
Some people feel miserable, others barely feel pregnant at all.
How to Cope with Pregnancy Symptoms
Helpful strategies:
Eat small, frequent meals
Stay hydrated
Rest when tired
Stretch and walk daily
Wear supportive shoes
Practice prenatal breathing
Seek emotional support
Your body is doing an extraordinary amount of work — it’s okay to slow down.
Final Thoughts
Understanding pregnancy symptoms by week can help you feel informed, prepared, and reassured as your body changes. While timelines vary, many symptoms follow predictable hormonal and physical patterns.
Whether you’re navigating nausea, feeling baby kick for the first time, or counting down to labor, every stage has its challenges and beauty. You are not alone — and your experience is valid.
