Common body changes to expect during pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also brings about many bodily changes. 

Some are to be expected, like putting on weight. Then there are weird or surprising changes. These usually include things like changes in eyesight, or skin fluctuations. Glossy hair or brittle nails - it could go either way!

Try to remember that every pregnancy is unique. If your pregnancy doesn't follow a specific template or meet expectations, that’s okay. The ultimate outcome should be about giving birth to a healthy baby, so try not to get fixated on having an “ideal” pregnancy. 

Feel free to speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding your symptoms. Your doctor is there to help. 

Pregnancy indicator

A missed period is one of the first definite signs of pregnancy. Take a pregnancy test and then have it confirmed with a visit to the doctor. 

First trimester: 

• Morning sickness can make it difficult to keep food down, so you might not gain as much weight as you imagine. The placenta, which nourishes your baby, together with your breasts, uterus and additional blood make up the majority of this weight.

• Your respiration and heart rate have both accelerated.

• Your breasts swell in size.

• Having to urinate more frequently is common now as your expanding uterus puts pressure on your bladder.

• Happy, sad, angry, hungry – hello, mood swings! 

Second trimester:

• Yay, the exhaustion is abating and morning sickness and moodiness start to recede, which leaves you with more energy. 

• You start to gain more weight.

• Tests performed at this point, like an ultrasound, may make you feel nervous. However, if any health problems are discovered, these tests will help ensure that you and your child get the proper care.

• Your fingernails might get stronger and your hair might get thicker. Your nails might also be softer and more prone to breaking.

• Are you craving certain foods? Go ahead and indulge, within reason. 
  

Third trimester:

•  You likely feel uncomfortable and worn out.

•  You probably feel anxious as labour approaches.

•  You should put on the most weight during this trimester. Your baby makes up the majority of this weight, along with amniotic fluid, the placenta, your breasts, blood and your uterus.

•  Thanks to your rapidly growing bundle, it’s probably difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. 

•  Your lungs could be under pressure from the baby, which makes breathing more difficult.

•  Get ready for Braxton Hicks contractions, which feel like a tightening of the muscles of the uterus. This is known as false labour, so no reason to rush to the hospital just yet. 

Ask your doctor for help, especially if any symptoms, such as morning sickness, aches and pains, dizziness or breathing issues, make it difficult for you to function on a daily basis. 

Good to know

Remember that every pregnancy is different, even your own. Your first pregnancy could have been smooth sailing and your second one might be plagued by bouts of morning sickness. Multiple pregnancies can result in various changes in the same person. Your symptoms might be minor or major, depending on the change. Be patient on your pregnancy journey!

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.