Early Pregnancy Symptoms: What First-Time Moms Need to Know

Finding out you’re pregnant—especially for the first time—can bring a mix of excitement, joy, and a fair amount of anxiety. As your body begins adjusting to support a growing baby, you may experience symptoms that are new, uncomfortable, or even a little alarming if you don’t know what to expect.

The good news? Many early pregnancy symptoms are completely normal, even if they catch you off guard. Here’s a gentle, reassuring guide to some of the most common ones: nausea and vomiting, tiredness, mild lower abdominal cramps, and headaches—and why they happen.

1. Nausea and Vomiting (“Morning Sickness”)

Despite the name, morning sickness can happen at any time of the day. Many women start to feel queasy around week 6, and it may come with or without vomiting.

Why it happens:

Hormonal changes—especially rising levels of hCG—trigger nausea in early pregnancy. Your sense of smell may also become extra sensitive, making everyday scents or foods suddenly unbearable. You may not even like your favourite nasi lemak! For most moms, this symptom will disappear by 14 weeks or so. But to the unlucky 10%, this symptom can persist until term.

When to breathe easy:

Mild to moderate nausea is normal and often improves by the second trimester.

What might help:

• Eating small but frequent meals

• Choosing bland foods (crackers, bread, bananas)

• Staying hydrated—take small sips often - it does have to be clear water

• Avoiding strong smells that trigger nausea

  
  

If vomiting becomes severe or you can’t keep fluids down, it’s important to reach out to me via the chat box on this webpage - just put your full name and your enquiry, and I will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours. But if you are already weak and persistently vomiting, you have to go to the emergency department.

2. Feeling Extremely Tired

If you feel as though you’re suddenly running out of energy by noon—or even 10 am—you’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the earliest and strongest signs of pregnancy. You may feel like sleeping the whole day!

Why it happens:

Your body is working around the clock to build the placenta, nourish the embryo, and adjust hormone levels. This requires a lot of energy.

What helps:

• Resting whenever your body asks for it

• Eating regular, balanced meals

• Prioritising sleep and good sleep habits

• Staying hydrated throughout the day

  
  

Don’t feel guilty about slowing down. Growing a baby is tiring work!

3. Mild Lower Abdominal Cramps

Light cramps in early pregnancy often feel similar to period cramps, and this can be confusing or worrying for first-time moms.

Why it happens:

Your uterus is expanding and the surrounding ligaments are stretching to make room for your baby. Mild cramping on and off can be completely normal.

When it’s normal:

• The pain is mild

• It comes and goes

• There’s no heavy bleeding

  
  

When to get checked:

If cramping becomes severe or is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, do let me know.

4. Headaches

Headaches can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to avoid medication during pregnancy.

Why it happens:

Hormones, fatigue, stress, and even dehydration can all trigger headaches in early pregnancy.

Simple tips that may help:

• Drink more water than usual

• Rest in a quiet, dark room

• Avoid skipping meals

• Practice gentle relaxation techniques, such as slow breathing

• It is ok to take paracetamol when needed (clarify with me about this)

  
  

If headaches become persistent or severe, it’s always okay to seek medical advice.

You’re Not Alone—These Symptoms Are Common

For many first-time moms, these early pregnancy changes can feel overwhelming. You may wonder if every new feeling is normal or if something is wrong. The truth is that your body is adapting in remarkable ways, and these symptoms—though uncomfortable—are often signs that things are progressing exactly as they should. You have another human being growing inside you =)

Remember:

• Every pregnancy is different

• Symptoms vary from woman to woman

• It’s okay to ask questions

• It’s always better to reach out for reassurance than to worry silently

  
  

Pregnancy is a journey, and you don’t need to navigate the unfamiliar parts alone. Stay connected with me and always let me know about your worries during follow-up, listen to your body, and give yourself plenty of grace along the way.

Take care mommies!