Physical Changes during Pregnancy

Physical Changes during Pregnancy

The pressure of the uterus on the stomach, coupled with the relaxation of the valve between the stomach and esophagus, allows stomach acid to "reflux" into your throat. Early in your pregnancy they will feel tender and may be larger. As the pregnancy progresses and your breasts prepare for breastfeeding, they get even bigger and may leak an early form of milk called colostrum.

Make sure you wear a well-fitting bra that provides both comfort and support. Try using a saline spray to clear out the mucus, or a neti pot, a small device available in health food stores that squirts water through your nose. Everyone recognizes the enlarging abdomen of pregnancy, but unless a sister or close friend has been pregnant, you may not be familiar with the other amazing physical and emotional changes taking place.

During pregnancy, ligaments and tendons throughout your body stretch, both to accommodate the growing baby and to allow the baby out during labor. Pregnancy is a steady stream of new experiences, and some may make you wonder if everything is going all right. You may also wonder if and when you should call your caregiver. Your experiences will be less distressing if you know the common physical and emotional changes during pregnancy.

Your blood volume increases during pregnancy, putting increased pressure on your kidneys. Also, keep in mind that pregnancy and early parenthood initiate major changes in your relationships with your mate, your parents, other relatives and friends. Be patient with yourself. Do not expect everything to go perfectly. No childbirth experience exactly matches expectations.

Pregnancy affects every part of your body—from your hair to your toenails. Stretching your legs before bed and getting regular exercise can help; you might also try adding a potassium-rich banana to your diet because You may experience sudden leg cramps, feel that something is crawling on your legs or have an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, particularly at night.