Body Changes During Pregnancy

A common symptom of early pregnancy, it can occur any time of day, not just in the morning.

This refers to the first three months of pregnancy. You might feel tired and nauseous during this time.

A type of pain that can occur in early pregnancy. It might be localized to the lower abdomen or affect joints.

A physical change that can occur in early pregnancy. It can feel like a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen.

Frequent urination is a common symptom of early pregnancy. This is due to the changing hormones and increasing fluid volume.

A condition characterized by a change in bowel habits, making it difficult to pass stool. It can occur in early pregnancy.

This happens when the mother has extreme and prolonged vomiting.

These are cravings or aversions to certain foods. It is a common symptom of early pregnancy.

Feeling down, miserable, and having a lack of interest in activities you usually enjoy.

Frequent anxiety, worry, stress, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping.

A burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid traveling upward.

A hormone that relaxes muscles in preparation for pregnancy, but can also loosen the sphincter between the stomach and throat, leading to acid reflux.

A muscle that prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus, but can be relaxed by progesterone.

Medication used to reduce stomach acid production and prevent heartburn.

Intense and vivid dreams that can lead to waking up during the night.

Difficulty getting enough sleep or staying asleep.

A recognized psychological disorder characterized by intense fear and anxiety surrounding childbirth.

A state of sadness or disappointment experienced during pregnancy, often related to complications, altered birth plans, or general life challenges.

A profound sense of sorrow or loss experienced after a pregnancy loss, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or late-stage fetal death.

A state of emotional distress that persists beyond the typical ups and downs of pregnancy, often characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.

The natural changes in hormone levels during pregnancy that lead to heightened emotions, both positive and negative, resulting in fluctuations in mood.

A common mental health condition affecting approximately 15% of pregnant women, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and loss of interest.

The experience of feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious about various aspects of pregnancy and impending motherhood, including finances, relationships, and parenting.

The importance of seeking professional help for mental health conditions during pregnancy, as untreated conditions can negatively impact both the mother's well-being and the baby's health.

During pregnancy, your body produces hormones that make your hair grow longer and thicker, leading to a fuller head of hair.

After childbirth, the hair that didn't fall out during pregnancy starts to shed, which can lead to noticeable hair loss.

During pregnancy, the growing phase of your hair cycle extends, resulting in less hair shedding compared to normal.

The increase in pregnancy hormones and prenatal vitamins promotes a longer growing phase for hair follicles.

Many women discover that their babies are more active at night as they lie down to rest, making it seem like their babies are ‘night owls’.

As the belly grows during pregnancy, it can become challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position, hindering quality sleep.

During pregnancy, increased urination frequency can disrupt sleep, leading to more awakenings throughout the night.

Using the bedroom exclusively for sleep and intimacy can help establish a consistent sleep routine.

A condition where the abdominal muscles, specifically the rectus abdominis, separate during pregnancy, creating a gap between the two sides of the abdominal wall.

Stretch marks are a common occurrence during pregnancy, caused by the rapid expansion of the skin. They appear as streaks or lines on the skin, primarily on the belly, breasts, thighs, and hips.

Melasma is a condition that causes brown patches or darkening of the skin, particularly on the face. It is often associated with pregnancy hormones and usually fades after childbirth.

A vertical dark line that appears down the middle of the abdomen during pregnancy. It is present throughout life but becomes more visible due to hormonal changes.

A condition characterized by postural changes during pregnancy, affecting back posture and abdomen support.

Strengthening exercises during pregnancy can help manage diastasis recti and improve core strength, but it's essential to consult with a doctor or physical therapist for safe and appropriate exercise routines.

Maintaining a healthy weight gain during pregnancy is important for minimizing the appearance of stretch marks and managing overall health.

Keeping the skin hydrated with moisturizers can help improve its elasticity, reducing the appearance of stretch marks and relieving discomfort from dry, itchy skin.

Pregnancy hormones cause ligaments in the body to stretch, including those in the feet, which can result in a drop in the arch and a half-size or more increase in foot size.

Pregnancy hormones cause ligaments in the pelvis, hips, knees, and ankles to loosen. This, combined with the shifting center of gravity from the growing baby bump, can result in a feeling of instability and clumsiness.

Increased blood volume and fluid retention during pregnancy can cause swelling in various areas including the face, arms, hands, legs, and feet. This is a normal part of pregnancy, but excessive or sudden swelling, especially in the face, can indicate preeclampsia.

Wearing compression socks and avoiding prolonged standing can help reduce swelling in the feet and legs. Elevating legs above heart level can also be beneficial, but it is important to note that this can lead to frequent urination.

A nosebleed can occur during pregnancy due to the increased blood volume and sensitivity of the nasal membranes. This is a normal part of pregnancy, but persistent or excessive bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor.

A nosebleed can be treated by applying gentle pressure to the bleeding area with a tissue for a minute or more. If bleeding persists after 15 minutes, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary.

A support belt under the belly can help with balance and back pain during pregnancy.

It is normal for pregnant women to feel tired and experience a decrease in energy levels. This is because the body is working hard to support the growing baby and handle the changes of pregnancy.