Pregnancy Symptoms Week by Week
A comprehensive timeline of what symptoms to expect at each stage of pregnancy, from the very first weeks through delivery.
Medically reviewed by
MBBS, MD — Gynecologist & Obstetrician
Last reviewed:
Feb 2026
Weeks 1–4
First Trimester- Missed period
- Light implantation spotting (weeks 3–4)
- Breast tenderness and fullness
- Mild fatigue
- Slight nausea (may begin)
- Frequent urination begins
- Basal body temperature remains elevated
Weeks 5–8
First Trimester- Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness peaks)
- Strong food aversions and smell sensitivity
- Extreme fatigue
- Breast enlargement and darkening areolas
- Mood swings
- Bloating and mild cramping
- Increased saliva (ptyalism)
Weeks 9–13
First Trimester- Nausea beginning to ease (for most)
- Visible abdominal bloating
- Decreased urgency to urinate as uterus rises
- Skin changes (acne, glow, or darkening)
- Constipation
- Heartburn beginning
- Emotional sensitivity
Weeks 14–20
Second Trimester- Energy levels improve significantly
- Baby bump becomes visible
- First fetal movements (quickening) at 16–22 weeks
- Round ligament pain (sharp side pain when moving)
- Nasal congestion and nosebleeds
- Skin darkening (linea nigra, melasma)
- Leg cramps begin
Weeks 21–27
Second Trimester- Active fetal movement felt regularly
- Backache and pelvic pressure
- Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Heartburn and indigestion worsen
- Stretch marks may appear
- Difficulty sleeping begins
Weeks 28–35
Third Trimester- Shortness of breath as baby pushes up
- Frequent urination returns
- Braxton Hicks more noticeable
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Colostrum may leak from breasts
- Baby kicks are strong and regular
- Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping position
Weeks 36–40+
Third Trimester- Lightening (baby drops into pelvis)
- Increased pressure in pelvis
- Nesting instinct surge
- Braxton Hicks become more frequent
- Mucus plug may be lost
- Cervical changes (effacement and dilation)
- Signs of labor: regular contractions, water breaking
⚠️ Warning Signs — When to Call Your Doctor
The following symptoms require immediate medical attention at any stage of pregnancy:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Vision changes or seeing spots
- Severe headache that doesn't improve
- Rapid swelling of face, hands, or feet
- Decreased or absent fetal movement (after 28 weeks)
- Signs of preterm labor before 37 weeks
- Fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered by our medical team