Changes during pregnancy

Changes That Occur During Pregnancy

There are a lot of changes that occur during pregnancy that you should be aware of. The best source of getting accurate information about your pregnancy is from your doctor and be sure to discuss any changes with your doctor.

Body Changes

Changes in your body during pregnancy will occur during the different trimesters. The first and the last trimester are typically when women feel the most discomfort. The second trimester is usually a bit of a reprieve with many women being more comfortable and enjoying this portion of the pregnancy. The first and third trimesters, however, are when the most changes occur and maybe when expectant mums are most uncomfortable and ill.

Changes during pregnancyMorning Sickness

Morning sickness or a feeling of nausea any time of the day is a very common result of pregnancy and happens most frequently in the first trimester. There also may be an increased sensitivity to smells which will trigger nausea. Sometimes these smells are ones that are typically enjoyed when not pregnant but can cause nausea during pregnancy. Eating bland food when a person is feeling nauseated also helps alleviate the symptoms. Chewing ginger also works for some pregnant mums.

Breast Changes

Breasts may begin to enlarge very early in the pregnancy and will continue to throughout the pregnancy. You may also notice tenderness and increased sensitivity. This is the time to invest in a few well-fitting maternity bras preferably without under wire, which will ensure comfort as the breast grows and changes.

Thirst

Urinary frequency and thirst is another common side effect of pregnancy. Women tend to be more thirsty and need more nourishment, this is a time to drink plenty of water. Drinking more fluids coupled with the uterus growing and pressing on your bladder will cause most women to have to urinate a lot more frequently than they used to. This is common throughout the pregnancy but is most pronounced during the first and last trimesters.

Stomach Changes

Stomach problems are another concern including upset stomach, indigestion, constipation and heartburn. There are changes in your uterus that slows the metabolism.  Foods that may not normally trigger these problems may start to bother you. Eating foods that are high in fiber will help alleviate these issues. Try to stay away from spicy foods or foods you find that trigger adverse reactions. If you exercise, wait for approximately two hours before partaking in any activity to allow the food to digest.

Sleeping Difficulty

If you are having trouble sleeping while you are pregnant, try lying on your side and using pillows under your stomach and between your legs. This added cushion will often increase the comfort, allowing you to have a more restful sleep. Doing relaxation exercises, taking a warm bath and going to bed only when you are tired will also help with feelings of restlessness. If you are having trouble sleeping, it may be best to simply get up for awhile and go back to bed later.

Changes to skin, nails and hair

Skin, nails and hair are also affected when pregnant. You may find your skin excessively oily or dry and your hair may lose its luster or thin a bit. These changes will go back to normal after you give birth. The increased hormone levels will affect this significantly. It is usually recommended that you avoid doing things such as coloring ore getting a perm at least during the first and third trimester.

Swelling of hands and feet

Swelling of the feet and limbs can be pronounced, you may also get some varicose veins. Lying on a bed and propping your feet up will help with swelling. Staying off your feet and relaxing for awhile will also help. If you experience leg cramps, do some leg stretches to loosen up your muscles.

All of the changes in your body during pregnancy will go away after you give birth. Having pregnancy information from your doctor will help you to cope with these changes in your body and to understand what to do. Remember that this is a temporary condition and even if you are uncomfortable, your body will go back to normal shortly after giving birth. Talk to other mums as well as there are a host of safe remedies that other mums will be able to share with you.

Have a safe pregnancy and delivery!

 

Scroll to Top