What Will Happen to Your Body During Pregnancy? |
Posted: December 23, 2019 |
The body of a pregnant woman undergoes many changes and this part of a healthy pregnancy. Some of these changes are visible but other changes are not as noticeable but are well known such as morning sickness and backaches. Anyway, certain body changes may be unexpected and catch you by surprise. Not all changes described below will happen to every pregnant woman but knowing them can be useful. 1. Mood SwingsMood swings are an expected thing during pregnancy and usually are caused by sharp changes in hormone levels. If a woman experiences PMS during her menstruation, she is expected to have more severe mood swings during pregnancy. They usually occur in the first trimester and toward the end of the third trimester. Depression is also common among pregnant women. If you have changes in eating habits, sleep problems, and mood swings for longer than two weeks, talk to your doctor. 2. Skin ChangesSome pregnant women may have melasma (dark skin discoloration), a dark line on the lower abdomen (also called linea negra), and hyperpigmentation of external genitalia and nipples. This occurs due to pregnancy hormones which cause the body to make more pigment. Melasma is not dangerous but it can’t be prevented. Wearing sunscreen and avoiding UV light will help you minimize its effects. Acne is also a common condition in pregnant women since sebaceous glands start to produce more oil. Freckles and moles may also become darker and bigger. The good news is that these skin changes often go away a few months after childbirth. 3. Varicose Veins and HemorrhoidsVaricose veins occur when the blood pools in veins that are enlarged by pregnancy hormones and are usually located in the legs and genital area. But you can prevent them by using the following tips:
Hemorrhoids often appear during pregnancy. They occur due to increased blood volume which makes the uterus put more pressure on the pelvis. Hemorrhoids can bleed, sting or itch, especially during bowel movements. Moreover, pregnant women often experience constipation due to a slow down in passing of food through the gastrointestinal tract which can worsen the hemorrhoids. Therefore, if you suspect hemorrhoids, consult a gastroenterologist as well as a varicose vein specialist. The best thing you can do is to prevent constipation and hemorrhoids with the help of a special diet. It includes fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water daily. 4. Nails and HairMany pregnant women often notice changes in hair growth and even texture. Pregnancy hormones can make your hair thicker or grow faster. Hair may even grow in such places as on the belly or face or around the nipples. Sometimes, the hair may become oilier or drier. Nails can also change during pregnancy. They may become stronger or brittle. If your nails split and tear easily during pregnancy, try to avoid the chemicals in nail polish and nail polish remover. 5. Teeth and GumsPregnant women are more prone to infections due to immune system suppression. Therefore, bleeding gums are a common pregnancy complaint and may even lead to gingivitis. Unfortunately, some women are afraid to go to the dentist when pregnant but there is no reason to be concerned. It’s even okay to get dental X-rays during pregnancy as long as the belly is properly protected from radiation.
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