Early Pregnancy Signs: When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?
If you think you might be pregnant, a home pregnancy test is usually most reliable after your period is late. Pregnancy tests sold in pharmacies and grocery stores detect the pregnancy hormone hCG in urine.
Common early pregnancy signs may include:
- Missed period
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tiredness
- Increased need to urinate
- Mild cramping or pulling sensations
- Heartburn, bloating or constipation
Some mild discomfort can be normal in early pregnancy, but strong pain, heavy bleeding or symptoms that worry you should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
If your pregnancy test is positive and you live in Sweden, you can contact a barnmorskemottagning, or maternity clinic, for guidance and pregnancy follow-up. In Sweden, maternity clinic visits are offered regularly during pregnancy to monitor the wellbeing of both the pregnant person and the baby.
First Trimester: Pregnancy Weeks 1–14
A tiny beginning with big changes
The first trimester is a time of rapid development. Even before pregnancy is visible from the outside, important foundations are being formed.
During the first weeks, pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last menstrual period. After fertilisation, the embryo implants in the uterus, and the placenta begins to develop. The placenta will later provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby.
During the first trimester:
- The embryo’s major organs and body structures begin to form
- The heart and central nervous system start developing early
- Facial features, arms, legs, fingers and toes gradually take shape
- By the end of the trimester, the embryo is usually referred to as a fetus
- The brain continues developing throughout pregnancy and after birth
You can follow pregnancy development week by week through 1177’s Swedish pregnancy guide.
Positive Pregnancy Test: What Happens
Next?
Seeing a positive pregnancy test can feel exciting, emotional and even unreal. In the beginning, your body may not look very different, and symptoms can vary widely. Some people feel nauseous and
exhausted early on, while others feel almost as usual.
Once you know you are pregnant, it is a good idea to contact your maternity clinic. Your first appointment is often scheduled during early pregnancy, and it is a chance to ask questions about food, supplements, exercise, medications and what to expect.
Food, Exercise and Everyday Wellbeing in Early Pregnancy
In most cases, gentle physical activity is beneficial during pregnancy. If you were active before pregnancy, you can often
continue with suitable forms of movement, adjusting intensity according to how you feel. Walking, swimming, pregnancy yoga and light strength training are common options.
However, activities with a high risk of falling, strong impacts or intense physical strain may need to be avoided. If you are unsure what is suitable for you, ask your midwife or healthcare provider.
When it comes to food, you can eat most things, but some foods and drinks should be avoided or limited during
pregnancy. Livsmedelsverket offers up-to-date Swedish guidance on food safety, nutrition and foods to avoid during pregnancy.
Common First Trimester Symptoms and Gentle Tips
Nausea, tiredness, bloating, heartburn and constipation are common during early pregnancy. Often, symptoms ease as pregnancy progresses.
Try these gentle tips:
- Eat small meals regularly. Small snacks may help with nausea and heartburn.
- Drink enough water. Hydration can support digestion and general wellbeing.
- Get fresh air. A short walk outdoors may ease nausea and tiredness.
- Choose gentle foods. If spicy, acidic or greasy foods trigger symptoms, try milder options.
- Rest when you can. Early pregnancy can be surprisingly tiring.
Bleeding or Pain in Early Pregnancy
Light spotting can occur in early pregnancy, but bleeding can feel worrying. Contact healthcare if bleeding is heavy, painful, persistent, foul-smelling or if you feel something is not right. Most miscarriages happen during the first trimester, but many people who experience light bleeding still continue to have a healthy pregnancy.
Second Trimester: Pregnancy Weeks
14–28
Growing, moving and becoming more real
For many, the second trimester brings more energy and fewer early pregnancy symptoms. The pregnancy may also start to feel more concrete: the belly becomes more visible, and the baby’s first movements may be felt.
During the second trimester:
- The fetus grows quickly
- Organs and body systems continue to mature
- Movement becomes more active
- Hearing and touch develop
- The baby may begin to respond to sounds and movement
Many first-time parents feel the first movements around the middle of pregnancy, while those who have been pregnant before may notice them earlier.
Fetal movement patterns vary, but becoming familiar with your baby’s movements later in pregnancy can be helpful. Swedish healthcare guidance highlights that reduced fetal movements from around week 24 onward should be taken seriously and discussed with care providers.
Caring for Your Changing Body
As your belly grows, your skin, posture and sleep may all change. Some people experience tightness or itching around the belly as the skin stretches. Moisturising the skin can feel soothing, and gentle massage may help you connect with your changing body. Our Well by Orion Pharma Stretch Mark Serum is perfect for relieving the feeling of tightness on the skin, and its wonderfully moisturising texture helps prevent stretch marks.
The size and shape of the pregnancy belly varies a lot. It can be affected by body structure, previous pregnancies, fluid retention and the baby’s position. A smaller or larger belly does not automatically mean something is wrong. Your midwife will monitor growth during
routine visits.
Pregnancy Diabetes, Glucose Testing and Braxton Hicks Contractions
As pregnancy progresses, new questions may arise. Some pregnant people are tested for gestational diabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels become elevated during pregnancy. In Sweden, your midwife will guide you on whether and when a glucose tolerance test is recommended.
Contractions can also begin during the second half of pregnancy. Irregular, painless tightening sensations are often called Braxton Hicks contractions. They are usually harmless, but painful contractions, bleeding, pressure or a feeling that something is wrong should be checked by healthcare.
Emotional Wellbeing During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is not only physical. It can bring joy, uncertainty, worries and many thoughts about the future. If you feel anxious, have trouble sleeping or worry about birth or parenthood, you are not alone.
You can support your emotional wellbeing by:
- Talking openly with your partner, a friend or someone you trust.
- Discussing worries with your midwife. Maternity clinics can offer support and guidance.
- Moving your body gently. Exercise can support sleep, mood and physical comfort.
- Preparing gradually. Think about what kind of support you may need after the baby is born.
Third Trimester: Pregnancy Weeks 29 Until Birth
The final stretch before meeting your baby
During the third trimester, the baby grows rapidly and prepares for life outside the womb. Movements may feel stronger, and you may notice kicks, stretches, hiccups or rolling movements.
During the final trimester:
- The baby gains weight quickly
- Fat develops under the skin
- Sleep and wake cycles become more noticeable
- Hiccups may feel like rhythmic movements
- The baby’s position gradually becomes more important as birth approaches
- Movements should continue to be felt regularly
In late pregnancy, movements may change in character as space becomes tighter, but they should not clearly decrease. If you notice reduced or absent fetal movements, contact maternity care or your chosen birth unit according to the instructions you have received.
Common Late Pregnancy Symptoms
The final weeks can feel physically
intense. The belly is heavier, sleep may be lighter, and swelling or pelvic discomfort can become more noticeable.
Common third trimester symptoms may include:
- Tiredness
- Swelling in feet or hands
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Back discomfort
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Difficulty sleeping
- More frequent urination
Gentle ways to feel more comfortable:
- Use pillows to support your belly, back or knees while sleeping.
- Try calm walks, stretching or pregnancy-safe exercises if they feel good.
- Rest with your feet elevated if your legs feel swollen.
- Consider support socks if recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Take breaks and allow yourself naps when possible.
Most pregnancy-related discomforts ease after birth, but you do not need to simply “push through” severe symptoms. Ask your midwife for support if pain, swelling, sleep problems or worries affect your daily life.
Preparing for Birth
Birth cannot be planned in every detail, but preparing can help you feel calmer and more informed. You may want to learn about the stages of labour, pain relief options, when to contact the birth unit and what to pack for hospital.
It can also be helpful to discuss practical plans with your partner or support person:
- Who will you call when labour begins?
- How will you get to the hospital or birth unit?
- What are your wishes for support during labour?
- Are there any fears or questions you want to discuss in advance?
If you feel afraid of giving birth, talk to your midwife. Fear of childbirth is common, and support is available.
For reliable Swedish information about pregnancy, childbirth and healthcare contacts, 1177 is a useful starting point.
