Understanding your body during pregnancy
By MayoClinic.com
From conception to birth, your body is programmed to support the needs of your growing baby. The physical changes you'll experience may leave you marveling at the wonder of pregnancy — and perhaps looking forward to the day when you can reclaim your body.
An average of 25 to 35 pounds of weight gain aside, you may be surprised by pregnancy's effect on your body. Here's what to expect.
First trimester changes
Within two weeks of conception, hormones trigger your body to begin nourishing the baby — even before tests and a physical exam can confirm the pregnancy. Here are some common early changes:
- Vaginal bleeding. Spotting or what appears to be a scanty period may be the first sign of pregnancy. A small amount of bleeding can occur when the fertilized egg, which has already undergone several cell divisions, implants into the lining of your uterus.
- Tender breasts. Your breasts may become unusually sensitive and feel fuller and heavier. It may help to wear a more supportive bra.
- Unusual fatigue. You're bound to feel tired as your body produces more blood and prepares to support the pregnancy. Your heart will pump faster and harder, and your pulse will quicken. Rest as much as you can.
- Bouts of nausea. Many women struggle with queasiness, nausea or vomiting in early pregnancy. It tends to be worse in the morning, but some women feel nauseated throughout the day. It may help to eat frequent, small meals and drink plenty of fluids.
- Increased urination. You may need to urinate more often as your growing uterus presses on your bladder, which lies directly in front of and slightly under the uterus during the first few months of pregnancy. The same pressure may cause you to leak urine when sneezing, coughing or laughing.
- Constipation. An increase in the hormone progesterone, which slows the digestive process, may cause constipation — especially during the first 13 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. To prevent constipation, drink plenty of fluids and boost your fiber intake.
Second trimester changes
The second trimester is often the most enjoyable stage of pregnancy. The worst of the nausea has usually passed, and your baby isn't big enough to crowd your abdominal organs and make you uncomfortable. Even so, you may notice physical changes from head to toe:
- Larger breasts. Stimulated by estrogen and progesterone, the milk-producing glands inside your breasts get larger. A small amount of fat may also accumulate in your breasts. The result may be as much as 1 pound of extra breast tissue.
- Glowing skin. Blood circulation increases during pregnancy, including the tiny vessels just beneath the surface of your skin. Enjoy the healthy glow.
- Nasal problems. As more blood flows to your body's mucous membranes, the lining of your nose and airway swells. This can restrict airflow and cause snoring, congestion and nosebleeds.
- Dizziness. Your blood vessels dilate in response to pregnancy hormones. Until your blood volume expands to fill them, you may experience occasional dizziness. Avoid prolonged standing, and rise slowly after lying or sitting down.
- Bleeding gums. Increased blood circulation can soften your gums. This may cause minor bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth.
- Leg cramps. Pressure from your uterus on the veins returning blood from your legs may cause leg cramps, especially at night. Stretch the affected muscle or walk your way through the cramps.
- Vaginal discharge. You may notice a thin, white vaginal discharge. This discharge consists mainly of cells from the vaginal lining and normal vaginal moisture.
Third trimester changes
During the last three months of pregnancy, your baby may poke you in the ribs as he or she practices uterine gymnastics. These exciting sensations are often accompanied by increasing discomfort and other physical changes:
When to consult your doctor
Most physical changes you'll experience during pregnancy are normal. It's important to pay attention to your body, however. Consult your doctor if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or any amount of bleeding after the first trimester
- Moderate or severe pelvic pain or any degree of pelvic pain that lasts more than four hours
- Constipation that leads to more than two days between bowel movements
- Persistent heartburn that doesn't respond to smaller meals
- Persistent bleeding from the gums
- Shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain or a cough
- A severe or persistent headache, especially with dizziness, faintness, nausea, vomiting or visual disturbances
- Vomiting with pain or fever
- Strong-smelling, green or yellowish vaginal discharge or any vaginal discharge accompanied by redness, itching and irritation
- Burning during urination
- Rapid swelling, especially of the face and hands
If in doubt, make the call. Your doctor may want to do a physical exam to make sure you and your baby are fine.