What are some common changes that occur during pregnancy?

It is normal to face physical changes during pregnancy. Some may experience discomfort in their stomach while others may feel nausea and vomiting along with uncomfort. These changes may appear because of the various hormonal changes in the body. However, these changes may not likely cause any harm to the baby. If you or anyone you know is worried about the physical changes in the body during pregnancy, you can consider talking to the experts of PSRI Hospital.

Let us first understand the different stages of pregnancy and how it brings changes

Pregnancy stages

There are mainly three stages of pregnancy: first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester. Some physical and emotional changes are common to each stage. However, you may experience some significant changes that may fall under each trimester.

• First trimester

During the first trimester, you may likely experience the following changes:

• Tiredness along with a nauseous sensation 
• You may experience gain in 1 or 2 kilograms of age. Weight gain can occur in the placenta- the pipe which feeds your baby. You may also experience a little increase in size in your breast, uterus, etc along with an increase in blood formation in your body.
• heartbeat and breathing rate become faster.
• Breasts may become tender, larger, and heavier.
• The uterus puts more pressure on your bladder that causes the sensation to urinate

• Second trimester

During the second trimester, you may likely feel the following:

• morning sickness and moodiness, however, you may feel less fatigue than earlier 
• not focused at work or home.
• You may likely gain more weight around 6 kilograms
• Anxiousness about getting tested by the doctor, even if it’s about ultrasound. May develop the feeling that someone is growing in your body.
• Your nails may become softer and break more easily.
• You may develop cravings for certain types of food.
• A sensation of developing significant taste and smell.

• Third trimester

In the third trimester, you may likely feel the sensations like:

• Difficulty to remember the things 
• You may start feeling tired and uncomfortable.
• A feeling of discomfort along with annoying nature may develop with someone’s irritating behavior.
• You may develop emotions regarding the safety, health, and the birth of the child
• A gain in weight that may range from 5 kg to 10 kg. The baby may develop with each stage that can make you feel fat. You may develop a glow on your skin and a feeling of mixed emotions.
• A persistent feeling of back pain
• You may start feeling uncomfortable along with sleeping difficulty
• The baby may start putting pressure on your body. Sometimes, it may cause difficulty breathing.

What are some common physical changes during pregnancy?

• Fatigue

It is one of the common physical changes that may appear during the first trimester. You may feel down in energy. This may bring many hormonal changes to your body. However, the conditions may likely improve after 12 weeks. In your last trimester, you may again start feeling tired. If fatigue is a problem for you, you can have a day’s nap. Try to opt for a healthy diet and boost your energy.

• Abdominal pain

Lower abdominal pain is one of the normal physical changes that occur during pregnancy. It is common to feel the same between 18 and 24 weeks. The growing body puts pressure and strain on your muscles. This may bring sharp pain and a pulling sensation. This may also bring coughing, sneezing, difficulty in sitting, standing, and rolling over. You may have an appointment with your healthcare provider. Your doctor may suggest your full body rest or even longer than an hour. You may appear to have sharp abdominal pain that may persist for a minute to several minutes. There can also be chances of some immediate urgency. However, if you are going through pregnancy, it can be hard to tell whether the stomach or abdominal pain is normal or triggering some issues. It is better to connect with your healthcare provider.

• Backache

It is one of the common physical changes during pregnancy that may put pressure on your back. The growing baby demands space in the stomach which may bring posture change in your body. It is normal to experience lower back pain that may radiate through your legs. If you have lower back pain, you can avoid standing on your feet. Try to change the position. Also, avoid bending during the final trimester of pregnancy. You can apply heat, cold, or a compressor on your back. You can sleep sideways, this may bring relief to your body. Ask your healthcare if you require any kind of special exercise. 

• Vaginal Bleeding

It is uncommon to notice vaginal bleeding, however, you may notice the same during the first 12 weeks. In certain cases, it can be a sign of miscarriage. If you are experiencing bleeding later in your pregnancy, it is a high alert. You must try seeking out help from your doctor. Do not try to place anything on your vaginal surface. Also, avoid sex, exercise, and any kind of strenuous activity.

• Hemorrhoids

It occurs because of the swollen veins in the rectum. Also, it is one of the common symptoms that may appear because of constipation. It can be painful and may develop interruption with bowel movements.

• Nausea and vomiting

• Nausea and vomiting are common during the first 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Some women experience it as part of their morning sickness.
• Pregnant women may experience nausea during any time of the day. Also, it is noticed that nausea is common when the stomach is empty.
• If you are going through nausea and vomiting, try eating dry crackers before getting out of bed in the morning.
• Eat small five to six meals so that you do not feel an empty stomach. Avoid smelling food. It can trigger vomiting and may spoil your mood, and may give you the sensation of not having any food at all.
• Try seeking help by drinking plenty of water. You can try eating ice chips and ice pops if water is causing the sensation of nausea.
• Also, try to take care of timing while taking your vitamin pills. It is recommended not to take vitamins on an empty stomach.
• Call your healthcare provider if you have persistent feelings of nausea and vomiting throughout the day.

• Varicose veins

These are the swollen veins that may appear in your legs, vulva, and vagina. If you are experiencing varicose veins, you can try sitting or lying down with your legs in the upper direction. Try not to stand for a longer period. Also, if you feel uncomfortable, try to stand up, sit and perform a little bit of hand or leg exercise that can make you feel comfortable. Try to avoid wearing anything that can bind your legs, thighs, or knees. Do not wear socks if it is causing discomfort in your legs. However, you may feel a little discomfort in your legs because of pressure and increased body weight.

Conclusion

Pregnancy can be scary as well as exciting. You may experience a lot of chemical, biological, hormonal, biochemical, internal, and physical changes during pregnancy. Certain changes can predict pregnancy. These changes may help you confirm whether it is normal body function or any pregnancy-related change. It is better to know about the changes rather than to predict anything else.