Pregnancy is a physiological condition in which a fertilized ovum develops inside the uterus until childbirth. Recognition of pregnancy is an important aspect of maternal health nursing because early identification allows timely antenatal registration, appropriate investigations, nutritional counselling, preventive care, identification of high-risk conditions, and preparation for safe delivery. The signs and symptoms of pregnancy vary from woman to woman and may differ according to the stage of pregnancy. They are commonly classified into presumptive, probable, and positive signs. Presumptive signs are subjective symptoms experienced by the woman. They suggest the possibility of pregnancy but are not sufficient to confirm it because similar symptoms may occur due to other physiological or pathological conditions. The most common presumptive sign is amenorrhea, or absence of menstruation. In a woman with previously regular menstrual cycles, a missed period is often the first indication of pregnancy. However, menstruation may also be absent because of stress, hormonal disorders, excessive exercise, nutritional problems, illness, or other causes. Nausea and vomiting are also common early symptoms of pregnancy. They are frequently referred to as “morning sickness,” although they may occur at any time of the day. They usually begin during the early weeks of pregnancy and often improve by the end of the first trimester. The symptoms are thought to be associated mainly with hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin and estrogen. Severe and persistent vomiting may lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies and requires medical assessment. Breast changes are another important early symptom. The breasts may become enlarged, tender, heavy, or painful because of hormonal stimulation. The nipples and areola become more prominent, and the areola may become darker. Montgomery tubercles may become more visible. Increased vascularity can produce prominent veins over the breasts. These changes prepare the breasts for lactation. Increased frequency of urination is commonly experienced during pregnancy. In early pregnancy, hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the pelvic organs can contribute to urinary frequency. Later in pregnancy, the enlarging uterus puts pressure on the urinary bladder, resulting in frequent urination. However, burning sensation, fever, pain, or blood in the urine should not be considered normal pregnancy symptoms and may indicate urinary tract infection. Fatigue and increased sleepiness are common during early pregnancy. Increased progesterone levels, metabolic changes, and the physical demands of pregnancy may contribute to tiredness. Some women may also experience dizziness or faintness, particularly when standing for long periods or changing position suddenly. Adequate rest, balanced nutrition, sufficient fluids, and appropriate antenatal care are important for managing these symptoms. Changes in appetite and food preferences may occur. Some pregnant women develop cravings for particular foods, while others develop aversion to foods that they previously enjoyed. Increased sensitivity to smell and changes in taste may also occur. Some women experience excessive salivation, known as ptyalism. Constipation may develop because progesterone reduces intestinal motility and