Changes During Pregnancy
A combination of hormones and the dramatic increase in uterine size (1000 times its original size) cause many physical changes in a pregnant woman. These changes occur throughout pregnancy. Every woman's pregnancy is unique. The following represent some of the most common changes.
Breasts become tender and larger while nipples more prominent. These changes occur to prepare for breast-feeding. As the blood supply increases to the breasts, veins will become more noticeable.
Initially the expanding uterus puts pressure on the bladder causing frequent urination. As pregnancy continues the uterus rises higher in the abdomen decreasing the frequency of urination until the final months.
These are typically the easiest months of pregnancy. Early discomforts and morning sickness subsides. The abdomen will begin to swell and the fetus will begin to move. Pain on the sides of the lower abdomen is common as the expanding uterus stretches ligaments. Skin pigmentation may temporarily change.
During pregnancy hormones slow down the digestion of food giving many women constipation or indigestion. To ease constipation, drink plenty of water, eat high fiber foods and exercise. To avoid indigestion avoid spicy or greasy foods, wait an hour after eating to lie down and eat many small meals instead of a few large ones.
Aches and pains are common, as are hemorrhoids. Insomnia may occur due to discomfort lying down. The expanded uterus may press against the diaphragm causing shortness of breath. Colostrum may leak from the breasts.
