1. Presumptive Signs
These are the signs and symptoms felt by the mother only, and are the least indicative of pregnancy because these could indicate other health conditions.
The following are the presumptive signs:
These are the signs and symptoms felt by the mother only, and are the least indicative of pregnancy because these could indicate other health conditions.
The following are the presumptive signs:
- amenorrhea - absence of menstrual period
- breast changes - feeling of tenderness and darkening of the areola
- frequent urination - sense of a need to void frequently because of the pressure to the uterus
- morning sickness - nausea and vomiting especially every morning
- fatigue
- enlargement of the uterus - the uterus can be palpated
- quickening - movement of the fetus is felt
- linea nigra - dark pigmentation in the midline of abdomen
- chloasma - the mask of pregnancy, facial discoloration
- striae gravidarum - marks on the abdomen
2. Probable Signs
These are the signs that are noted by the examiner. These are more reliable than the presumptive signs but not conclusive about pregnancy.
The following are the probable signs:
These are the signs that are noted by the examiner. These are more reliable than the presumptive signs but not conclusive about pregnancy.
The following are the probable signs:
- Chadwick's sign - change of vaginal color from from pink to violet
- Goodell's sign - softening of the cervix, cervix is normally firm.
- Hegar's sign -softening of the lower uterine segment
- Ballottement - the fetus can be felt by the examiner when the abdomen is tapped on a bimanual exam
- Braxton hicks contraction - painless uterine contractions occurring periodically
- Fetal palpation - fetal outline can be palpated by the examiner
3. Positive signs
These are the signs that confirm pregnancy.
The following are the probable signs:
These are the signs that confirm pregnancy.
The following are the probable signs:
- audible fetal heart - fetal heart is audible using Doppler ultrasound
- visualization of fetus by ultrasound
- fetal movements felt by the examiner
It is always important to have prenatal check-ups to monitor the health condition of the baby inside your tummy. Visit your health care provider as advised to keep your baby healthy.