Being pregnant doesn't just change your body it affects your mind too, most women don’t think about it
before they are pregnant and nobody ever tells you what can happen when you are.
Things no one tells you about pregnancy!!!
Mood swings - If you suffer from PMS, you're likely to have more severe
mood swings during pregnancy. They can make you go from feeling happy one minute to feeling like crying the next. Mood swings
are incredibly common during pregnancy, although they tend to occur more frequently in the first trimester and toward the
end of the third trimester. If you feel that it is more than just mood swings go and see your G.P. Some women experience depression
during pregnancy.
Nesting - Many pregnant women experience the nesting instinct, a powerful urge
to prepare their home for the baby by cleaning and decorating. As your due date draws closer, you may find yourself cleaning
cupboards or washing walls things you never would have imagined doing in your ninth month of pregnancy! But be careful not
to overdo it.
Concentration, memory, out the window - In the first trimester, fatigue and
morning sickness can make many women feel worn out and mentally fuzzy. But even well-rested pregnant women may experience
an inability to concentrate and periods of forgetfulness. We can’t stress how important it is during this time to make
lists. It will stop you feeling like you are losing your marbles.
Changes in your skin, and not just a rosy glow. A rosy glow can occur as pregnant
women experience an increase in blood volume to provide extra blood flow to the uterus and to meet the metabolic needs of
the foetus. They also have increased blood flow to their other organs, especially the kidneys. The greater volume brings more
blood to the vessels and increases oil gland secretion. This is the cause of spider veins which can appear anywhere on the
skin, thankfully they should fade after the birth.
It is also possible to develop brownish or yellowish patches called chloasma, 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), as well as hyper pigmentation (darkening
of the skin) of the nipples, external genitalia, and anal region. These are the result of pregnancy hormones, which cause
the body to produce more pigment. The body may not produce this increased pigment evenly, however, so the darkened skin may
appear as splotches of colour. Unfortunately, chloasma can't be prevented, but wearing sunscreen and avoiding UV light can
minimize its effects.
As an added bonus acne is common during pregnancy because the skin increases its oil production. Many women also experience
heat rash, caused by dampness and perspiration, during pregnancy. So to sum up, pregnancy can be an itchy time for a woman.
Lovely thick hair - before you get excited it will go back to normal after
the baby is born so enjoy it while it lasts. Many women experience changes in hair texture and growth during pregnancy
it will tend to grow faster and fall out less.
Long strong nails, like hair, nails can grow faster and become stronger. Some
women, however, find that their nails tend to split and break more easily during pregnancy. Like the changes in hair, nail
changes aren't permanent.
Zeppelin like breasts - An increase in breast size is one of the first
signs of pregnancy. Breasts usually become swollen and sore in the first trimester because of increased levels of the hormones.
That growth in the first trimester isn't always the end either, your breasts can continue to grow throughout your pregnancy!
Elephant feet - because of the extra fluid in their bodies, many women experience
swelling in their feet and may even have to start wearing a larger shoe size.
Wobbly joints - during pregnancy, your body produces a hormone known as relaxin,
which is believed to help prepare the pubic area and the cervix for the birth. The relaxin loosens the ligaments in your body,
making you less stable and more prone to injury. When doing things go slowly and avoid sudden, jerky movements.
Varicose Veins - Varicose veins, which are usually found in the legs
and genital area, occur when blood pools in veins enlarged by the hormones of pregnancy. The good news is that varicose veins
often disappear after pregnancy. If you are worried speak to your G.P.
Bottom problems - namely haemorrhoids and constipation. Haemorrhoids are varicose
veins in the rectum, because your blood volume has increased and your uterus puts pressure on your pelvis, the veins in your
rectum may enlarge into grape-like clusters. Haemorrhoids can be extremely painful, and they may bleed, itch, or sting, especially
during or after a bowel movement. Coupled with constipation, another common pregnancy woe. The best way to combat constipation
and haemorrhoids is to prevent them by eating lots of fibre, drinking plenty of fluids daily, and exercising regularly can
help keep bowel movements regular. If you do have haemorrhoids, see your doctor for a cream or ointment that can shrink them.
Sounds lovely doesn’t it! Just remember you may not get it all and it is only for nine months.
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