Beyond the obvious distending of the stomach where you baby is growing, there are a number of changes you can expect during pregnancy – both physically and emotionally. Women pregnant for the first time may have heard many horror stories from friends and family about cravings, pain, morning sickness and more. While some of this knowledge can be helpful, it is important to note every pregnancy is different and if you have multiple pregnancies, you will know that each experience could be vastly different.

Physical Changes

Many women say they knew they were pregnant before taking any tests simply because their breasts suddenly became sore or very sensitive. Your estrogen hormones are the cause for this breast tenderness in pregnancy because the body is preparing for future milk production. The breasts will start to feel increasingly firm and sensitive and many women experience some relief with a proper fitting bra.

Skin changes may occur during pregnancy which includes stretch marks and brown patches of skin produced by an overabundance of melanin which can be blamed on a certain hormone secreted by the placenta. Stretch marks occur if your belly grows faster than your skin can accommodate and the dark brown patches of skin can occur on the face (a condition called melasma), a line down the middle of the stomach and even a darker nipple area on the breasts. The brown patches of skin during pregnancy typically fade away after birth of the baby but may take several months as your hormones level out.

Fatigue is a common problem in pregnancy and can be the result of a variety of cumulative factors. Just imagine carrying anywhere from 25-50 pounds or more of extra weight than you normally would and you would expect the muscles and joints in your body to protest. Not only that but your heart is working harder pumping oxygenated blood not only to all of your organs for proper function but also to your baby inside the womb.

Other factors in your pregnancy are the result of your ever-expanding uterus and can include some breathing impairment, frequent trips to the bathroom and issues with food. Your growing baby inside the uterus is pushing against many organs including your lungs (and rib area) which accounts for occasional faster, shallower breathing. You may discover that you cannot eat as much during one meal or may have frequent heartburn and this can be blamed on the food staying longer in the stomach and a slower digestive process. And of course, the bladder often feels the pressure of the growing baby which accounts for the frequent bathroom trips for relief.

Your hormones are going to create some havoc during your pregnancy and you may experience times of sadness, joy, inexplicable crying and more. Remember, each pregnancy is different, even your own so do not judge your experience by anyone else’s because your body chemistry is unique.

Related posts:

1. Why Would I Have Acne In Early Pregnancy?
2. Spotting During Pregnancy? Whether To Worry
3. How Can I Tell If I Am In Early Pregnancy?
4. Bleeding During Pregnancy Could Be Cause for Concern
5. Pregnancy Due Date Calendar: Know When To Expect Your Little Angel

Tags: Pregnancy

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