10 January 2024 , 17:41
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There are a lot of cold and flu illnesses going around at the moment, but there are early pregnancy symptoms that could be mistaken as just feeling 'run-down'.
There are some obvious signs of early pregnancy such as morning sickness, a missed period, sore breasts, and tiredness - but there are a few that could be a little more vague and easily mistaken.
Signs could be missed, especially as it's that time of year when people will be feeling under the weather and full of a cold. Healthline shared that feeling a bit rubbish could also be an early sign of pregnancy, however.
"Pregnancy lowers your immunity, making you more prone to infection. It's not uncommon to experience cold- or flu-like symptoms early in pregnancy," Healthline explained. They further detailed that women who are pregnant need to take caution with coming down with the flu, as pregnant people are "more vulnerable" to severe illnesses and "complications" from the flu. These can all lead to "serious health problems" for the baby too. Healthline reassured that a doctor can recommend "pregnancy-safe" treatment options if needed.
Another stranger symptom of pregnancy is a change in taste. This is due to the "increase in oestrogen" and "progesterone during pregnancy". They also stated that some women may develop a condition called dysgeusia. This can cause altered "taste sensations". These tastes can be metallic, bitter or less sweet than normal.
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"While there isn't a cure for dysgeusia, you may be able to reduce the taste. Suggestions include chewing sugarless gum, adding seasonings and spices to dishes, neutralizing the metallic taste by adding sweetness or sourness to dishes," according to Healthline.
Another sign of early pregnancy may also be feeling bloated and constipated. This is because of the hormonal changes due to pregnancy, and "in addition, as your uterus grows during pregnancy, your intestines typically shift, which can also affect your regularity."
If you do think you are pregnant, it's advised to take a pregnancy test as early as possible and consult your GP if you have any concerns. More information can be found here. You should contact your GP surgery or local midwife service as soon as you find out you're pregnant (before eight weeks into the pregnancy).