Changes that occur in the body during pregnancy
Changes that occur in the body during pregnancy – Pregnancy brings with it a number of surprises, from seeing your belly grow inch by inch to feeling your baby’s kicks for the first time. As the weeks go by, you will surely notice some changes in your body. Although most of these changes will disappear after birth, some may remain for a while. Let’s take a look at the 5 main changes that pregnancy will bring about in your body and simple ways to combat these changes.
Changes that occur in the body during pregnancy
Pregnancy can be an exciting but also scary time as your body changes in ways you never expected. However, knowing in advance the changes that pregnancy will bring about in your body will make your life much easier during this 9-month journey, allowing you to prepare physically (and mentally) for them. Here are a few of the changes you may see in your body with pregnancy.
1. Stretch marks
Stretch marks, one of the most common changes you should expect in your body during pregnancy, cause mixed feelings. While some women proudly carry it as a symbol of their pregnancy adventure, some women are quite uncomfortable with this situation. Cracks form in the skin as a result of stretching and expanding the skin to accommodate your growing baby. Cracks are mainly tears in the tissue.
Whether you wear the stretch marks with pride or hate them, these yellow, brown, or sometimes purple lines will slowly begin to appear on your belly, shoulders, chest, buttocks, and thighs. There are some easy ways to minimize the appearance of these pregnancy stretch marks, such as increasing your intake of Vitamin C to hydrate your skin and keep skin toned and elastic. You can create a regular skin care routine early in pregnancy to fight stretch marks early.
Also read: Using Coconut Oil for Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Clue: You can apply a generous amount of Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Cream to the areas where you notice that stretch marks are constantly increasing. Enriched with Vitamin E, shea butter, cocoa butter and bio c-elast, this cream keeps your skin supple and increases collagen production, restoring your skin’s elasticity and moisturizing your skin. Preventing the development of stretch marks is the most effective way to keep them at bay, as you will have limited success when they already appear, so start early!
2. Shoe size
You may be surprised at the relationship between shoe size and pregnancy. Many women have noticed that their feet have grown one size by the end of pregnancy. This increase in shoe size can happen for three reasons. First, the extra weight carried during pregnancy flattens the feet, making them longer. It can also be caused by the relaxant hormone, which relaxes bones and ligaments to increase the body’s flexibility during childbirth. Relaxin also increases the length of the feet by allowing the ligaments in the feet to relax and spread. Finally, swelling caused by extra fluids produced by the body that collects in the feet and ankles can also cause the shoe size to change.
Clue: While any swelling will eventually subside, your feet will stay longer, so all the more reason to buy more SHOES! Invest in comfortable, flexible shoes (not heels) and keep your feet elevated to get relief from any discomfort.
3. Dry Skin
Another change you can expect to see during pregnancy is that your skin becomes dry, itchy, and flaky. With hormonal changes taking over your body, this is definitely a sign of pregnancy that you won’t be able to expect (or look forward to). Be prepared to experience itching and dryness around your stomach, thighs, chest, and arms. It can also occur as a result of dehydration, which is common during pregnancy.
Clue: Some ways to deal with this unwanted dryness include sipping water throughout the day, moisturizing your skin, and limiting shower time. Using a stretch mark cream for stretch marks, such as Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Cream, will also work wonders in reducing dryness, as it is made with ingredients that specifically add moisture to the skin and improve collagen production, leaving you soft and supple.
4. Growing breasts
Prepare for your bra size to go up a few notches, especially during the first trimester. There’s not much you can do about this increase in breast size, as there’s no one to thank other than skyrocketing estrogen and progesterone levels, but be prepared for it. Your breasts will continue to grow throughout pregnancy and even after the birth of your baby until your milk production stops. Your breasts may even feel more sensitive and fuller. Don’t worry! All of this will eventually return to normal when you stop breastfeeding.
Tip: You can get quality maternity bras made of breathable fabric to get good support and not feel suffocated or claustrophobic. If you need additional support, also wear the maternity bra while sleeping, which can help with any aches and pains.
5. Dental Health
While your immune system takes a hit during pregnancy, you can also expect a decline in your oral health. Also, let’s not forget the hormones in your body that affect the bacteria in your mouth and the acid from morning sickness that ruins your tooth enamel! Pregnant women often complain of bleeding or pain in the gums due to an increase in blood flow, as well as gingivitis and cavities. In fact, when left untreated, and in extreme cases, bacterial overgrowth in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, travel to the uterus and trigger the production of prostaglandins, causing premature labor.
Clue: Even if you don’t have any complaints, go for regular teeth cleanings, which removes hidden plaque that regular brushing and flossing can’t. All it takes is good oral hygiene and regular check-ups to keep any dental problems at bay.
Changes that occur during pregnancy
Although we have covered some unpleasant changes during pregnancy, good changes that you will remember when you look back, especially during this period, cannot be ignored.
1. Nesting
Many first-time mothers find it difficult to accept that they can take good care of their babies. However, there comes a moment during pregnancy when your maternal instinct kicks in and you start getting ready to bring your little one home. You may not even notice this change when you’re pregnant, but you’ll definitely be able to look back and identify it.
2. Pregnancy Glow
Say hello to beautiful skin days as the increase in blood flow in your body gives your face a glow that is hard to miss. Don’t forget to enjoy all the compliments and click as many selfies as you can!
3. Great Hair
If you’ve ever wished for thick, luscious hair, you’re in luck because pregnancy is gifting you just that. The increase in hormone production makes your hair thicker and longer, and shiny without forgetting. You can also see these changes in your nails.
The key to navigating your pregnancy is to be prepared for the changes that come with it. These are just a few of the surprises that await you during pregnancy. So, enjoy this moment, nurture the little child growing inside you, and get ready for the adventure you’re about to embark on!
