"Symptoms" can make you go crazy!

Ok I know I said I won't update til I have something to update - whether it was Clearblue or Laurier this month-end, but I guess I just needed an avenue to say some things.

Symptoms - Yes there are plenty of symptoms to look out for when you're TTC. Firstly is symptoms of ovulation so you know the "right timing". And then, it's the symptoms to see if you ARE pregnant.

So what do we "look out" for? Well I did some "research" (more like googling!!) and found these on http://www.surebaby.com/signs_of_pregnancy.php:

1. Missed Menstrual Period
A missed cycle can be a sign of pregnancy. It is usually the first indicator that conception has occurred, although some women claim to know they are pregnant before they miss a period.

2. Morning Sickness
Nausea can be a sign that a woman is pregnant. Many women say that they've had nausea up to two weeks before an expected monthly cycle and before any other symptom. Eating crackers before getting out of the bed in the morning can help and eating several smaller meals instead of larger ones can help with nausea.

3. Tender Breasts
Tender swollen breasts are another early symptom. While tender breasts are a symptom of an impending cycle, enlarged breasts are not. Sore and swollen breasts with a tingling sensation can be an early indicator of pregnancy.

4. Fatigue
Extreme fatigue can be another indicator of pregnancy, especially if other symptoms are present. A nap a day can help a pregnant woman maintain normal daily activities.

5. Frequent Urination
An increased urge to urinate can be an indicator and usually occurs between 6 to 8 weeks out.

6. Pregnancy Headaches
Headaches in early pregnancy are a common symptom and begin at about the 6th week. A quick nap can help diminish headaches in pregnancy. Preeclampsia or toxemia can begin with headache and can be dangerous to a pregnant woman. If you are pregnant and have this symptom, be sure to call your health care provider immediately

7. Spotting
Spotting is a common symptom in pregnancy. Some women report what seems to be a short light period before the onset of other symptoms. This may be implantation bleeding and not a monthly period at all (when the egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus). If you are pregnant and you experience spotting check in with your doctor as spotting is also an indicator of miscarriage in early pregnancy.

8. Light Headedness
Some pregnant women experience actual fainting and light headedness. Again, this is usually not an issue past the fourth month of pregnancy.

9. Constipation
Hormonal changes can affect the digestive system and cause constipation. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help. A pregnant woman should ask her doctor for recommended exercises while pregnant.

10. Heartburn
Heartburn can be a symptom in months 1-9. In months 1-4, heartburn is caused by hormonal changes. In months 5-9, the baby can cause pressure on a pregnant woman's organs. Eating frequent smaller meals and remaining in an upright position at least an hour after eating can help.


Well that's beneficial if someone realised they were late, and now is wondering if they are indeed pregnant. But how about someone who's period is supposed to be due soon, but is hoping that she is pregnant? Then what symptoms to look out for to see if she should continue having any hope for this month? Breast tenderness? I get that all the time as part of my PMS. Headaches? I suffer from migraine at times. Nausea? I have wind + gastric problem so it's common to feel a little nausea. So then, what next?

I guess I just gotta wait until my period is overdue (hopefully!) and then test with a home kit.

I'm going crazy, hoping I'm pregnant and wondering if I'm confusing "hope" with that "feeling that you know you ARE pregnant"! How do people just "know"?

And what if I'm not? Then I need to start all over again this cycle....