During early pregnancy urine may become darker in colour and/or have a stronger or different smell than usual – be sure to drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses a day). If you are experiencing any pain you should speak with your doctor as it could also be a sign of a urinary tract infection. This change in smell or strength may also be due, in part, to an increased sense of smell some women experience in very early pregnancy.

As of January 18, 2009 this symptom is most commonly reported by pregnant women on 11 days past ovulation with approximately 8.5% of women reporting it.

View the full chart for all days past ovulation

It may never occur to you that a runny or stuffy nose could be connected with being pregnant, but many women experience cold or flu-like symptoms in early pregnancy. This is due to higher levels of estrogen during pregnancy which can cause swelling in the mucous membranes throughout the body, including the nose.

In very early pregnancy (based on the data submitted to the VEP Symptom Tracker as of October 24, 2008) it is most common on 9 and 10 days past ovulation with 4.4% of pregnant women experiencing it.

Click to view the full graph of Runny Nose – from Ovulation Day to 21 Days Past Ovulation.

Headaches in pregnancy tend to occur most frequently in the first trimester. Hormone levels rise dramatically in early pregnancy, and can contribute to headaches. Changes in your blood circulation and blood volume during pregnancy can cause increased pressure on your blood vessels. This increase requires greater fluid intake to counteract dehydration, which can be another cause of headaches. Be sure to get at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Low blood sugar could also be the culprit, be sure to eat a healthy well balanced diet, with adequate protein and iron intakes. Avoid foods that can trigger a headache: like chocolate, MSG, cheese and spicy foods. Other possibilities are stress and anxiety or not getting enough rest. Try to take time each day to relax and make sure you get enough sleep.

Our data on September 4, 2008 shows that headaches are most common on 9 days past ovulation with 15.5% of pregnant women experiencing this symptom. Our data also shows that headaches is one of the top ten most common early signs of pregnancy. (View Top Ten Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms)

Click to view the full graph of Headaches – from Ovulation Day to 21 Days Past Ovulation.

Some women report that they notice the sudden appearance of “road map” veins (more prominent blue veins) most often these are most apparent in the breasts. Because of an increased blood supply to your breasts during early pregnancy, these veins may become more visible. Some women also notice a change in the appearance of veins all over their bodies, including arms, stomach and legs.

Based on our data (as of August 28, 2008) this early pregnancy symptoms is most commonly reported on 9 days past ovulation with 8.6% of pregnant women experiencing it.

Click to view the full graph that outlines the reported instances of this symptom for all days past ovulation. (From Ovulation Day to 21 days past ovulation).

The exact reason for pregnancy cravings is not known, but many speculate that the new or strange cravings pregnant women experience are actually the body’s way of asking for a particular nutrient it may be lacking. The actual food craved is not necessarily what the body needs but may need something in the food. The cliché of craving pickles may be an indication your body needs more sodium, or the desire for a burger and french fries may be a need for protein, sodium or potassium. Studies also show that the high levels of hormones present during pregnancy can alter a woman’s sense of taste and smell. This change can also lead to food aversion.

How many women experience this symptom during very early pregnancy?

Click to view a chart that breaks down the symptom by day past ovulation.

View a full list of Very Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy. (60+ listed!)