Surprising effects of pregnancy
Nesting Instinct
Pregnancy is a transformative journey that brings about a multitude of changes in a woman’s life, both expected and within the realm of Surprising Effects of Pregnancy. Amid the well-documented physical and emotional changes, there are several of these surprising effects that often go unspoken. These lesser-known aspects can encompass a range of experiences, from unusual food cravings and changes in sensory perception to shifts in memory and sleeping patterns. Navigating these surprising effects alongside the more anticipated facets of pregnancy adds depth to the incredible experience, offering a reminder of the uniqueness and complexity encompassed by Surprising Effects of Pregnancy in this remarkable phase of life
Problems with Concentration
In the first trimester, many women experience tiredness and morning sickness which can lead to feeling mentally foggy. Additionally, even well-rested pregnant women may have trouble concentrating and experience forgetfulness.
When it comes to preparing for a new baby, it’s common to experience a shift in priorities and focus due to the emotional and hormonal changes taking place. It’s easy to become preoccupied with thoughts of the baby and upcoming birth, leading to potential neglect of other responsibilities such as work, bills, and appointments. To stay organized and on top of important dates and expenses, creating lists can be a helpful tool.
Mood Swings
During both premenstrual syndrome and pregnancy, you may experience similar symptoms. Your breasts may become tender and swollen, your hormones may fluctuate, and you might feel moody. If you have premenstrual syndrome, you may experience more severe mood swings during pregnancy, which can cause you to feel happy one minute and then sad the next. Mood swings are common during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters. Depression is also prevalent among pregnant women. If you have been experiencing symptoms such as changes in eating habits, sleep problems, and mood swings for more than two weeks, it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider.
change in size
An increase in breast size is one of the first signs of pregnancy. Breast growth in the first trimester is due to higher levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. That growth in the first trimester might not be the end, either — your breasts can continue to grow throughout your pregnancy!
Your bra size also can be affected by your ribcage. When you’re pregnant, your lung capacity increases so you can take in extra oxygen, which may lead to a bigger chest size. You may need to replace your bras several times during your pregnancy.
Skin Changes
Do your friends say you have that pregnancy glow? It’s one of many effects that can come from hormonal changes and your skin stretching.
Pregnant women have increased blood volume to provide extra blood flow to the uterus and other organs, especially the kidneys. The greater volume brings more blood to the vessels and increases oil gland secretion.
Some women develop brownish or yellowish patches called chloasma, or the “mask of pregnancy,” on their faces. And some will notice a dark line on the midline of the lower abdomen, known as the linea nigra (or linea negra). They can also have hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) of the nipples, external genitalia, and anal region. That’s because pregnancy hormones cause the body to make more pigment.
This increased pigment might not be even, so the darkened skin may appear as splotches of color. Chloasma can’t be prevented, but wearing sunscreen and avoiding UV light can minimize its effects.
Acne is common during pregnancy because the skin’s sebaceous glands make more oil. And moles or freckles that you had before pregnancy may get bigger and darker. Most of these skin changes should go away after you give birth.
Many pregnant women also get heat rash, caused by dampness and sweating. In general, pregnancy can be an itchy time for a woman. Skin stretching over the abdomen may cause itchiness and flaking. Your doctor can recommend creams to soothe dry or itchy skin.
Hair and Nails
Many women have changes in hair texture and growth during pregnancy. Hormones can make your hair grow faster and fall out less. But these hair changes usually aren’t permanent. Many women lose some hair in the postpartum period or after they stop breastfeeding.
Some women find that they grow hair in unwanted places, such as on the face or belly or around the nipples. Changes in hair texture can make hair drier or oilier. Some women even find their hair changing color.
Nails, like hair, can change during pregnancy. Extra hormones can make them grow faster and become stronger. Some women, though, find that their nails split and break more easily during pregnancy. Like the changes in hair, nail changes aren’t permanent. If your nails split and tear more easily when you’re pregnant, keep them trimmed and avoid the chemicals in nail polish and nail polish remover.
Joint Mobility
During pregnancy, your body makes the hormone relaxin, which is believed to help prepare the pubic area and the cervix for the birth. Relaxin loosens the ligaments in your body, making you less stable and more at risk for injury. It’s easy to overstretch or strain yourself, especially the joints in your pelvis, lower back, and knees. When exercising or lifting objects, go slowly and avoid sudden, jerking movements.
Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, and Constipation
Varicose veins, usually found in the legs and genital area, happen when blood pools in veins enlarged by pregnancy hormones. Varicose veins often go away after pregnancy. To help prevent them:
Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
wear loose-fitting clothing
wear support hose
Raise your feet when you sit
Hemorrhoids — varicose veins in the rectum — are common during pregnancy as well. Your blood volume has increased and your uterus puts pressure on your pelvis. So the veins in your rectum may enlarge into grape-like clusters. Hemorrhoids can be very painful, and can bleed, itch, or sting, especially during or after a bowel movement (BM).
Constipation is another common pregnancy woe. It happens because pregnancy hormones slow the passing of food through the gastrointestinal tract. During the later stages of pregnancy, your uterus may push against your large intestine, making it hard for you to have a BM. And constipation can contribute to hemorrhoids because straining to go may enlarge the veins of the rectum.
The best way to deal with constipation and hemorrhoids is to prevent them. Eating a fiber-rich diet, drinking plenty of liquids daily, and exercising regularly can help keep BMs regular.
