Firstly, congratulations! If you are wanting to read about how your body changes during pregnancy then I am guessing you are already pregnant…or at least planning ahead!
Many of us know the common changes which will occur such as changes to your body shape, fluid retention and weight gain. There might also be some which you are unaware of. Here is my guide on what to expect as your body changes during pregnancy.
1. Weight Gain
An obvious one, I know, but it is important for a healthy pregnancy. Only a small amount of the weight you gain during pregnancy is actually body fat. Most people gain between 1o-12 kgs. This is made up of baby, breast size increase, an increase in blood and fluid, uterus, amniotic fluid and placenta as well as a little fat.
Try to – focus on nutritious food and minimise junk food. Regular exercise will also help but please check with your doctor first. Just remember, you do not need any additional calorie intake until the third trimester. And even then, you only need an extra 200 calories a day.
2. Fluid Retention
Pregnant bodies retain more fluid due to additional weight and gravity which slows blood circulation and body fluid. Swollen limbs and faces can start to appear in the second trimester but it is more common in the third.
Try to – stay off your feet, rest, and avoid caffeine and salt. If any swelling is sudden please do contact your doctor straight away to check that you are not suffering from pre eclampsia.
3. Super Senses
Vision can change when you are expecting, often nearsightedness becomes an issue.
Your sense of taste might also change from trimester to trimester, sometimes dulling your sense of taste in the first trimester. Or gravitating you to saltier or sweeter foods than before. Some women also report a strong metallic taste in their mouths.
Your sense of smell can also become more sensitive than before
Don’t worry – These all return to normal post-birth.
4. Hair & Nails
Fingernails can grow faster as can hair (everywhere)! Making it become fuller and thicker. Although for some women it can mean hair loss and shedding or brittle, breaking nails.
This too shall pass – Keep a close eye on your diet and make sure you are getting plenty of the right vitamins and minerals which will help. Hair loss and shedding can often carry on, or start post-birth. Once your hormones regulate themselves this should all settle down.
5. Skin
Well, as this is the biggest organ in the body no doubt it goes through the most amount of changes.
Many people are aware of the pregnancy glow but this is not a myth. Retained moisture plumps your skin making it appear smoother. This, combined with the additional blood circulation through your body, can give your skin a pinkish radiant glow.
However, many women experience an increase in skin pigmentation. Leaving darker patches of skin on your body. When this happens on the face it is known as melasma, the mask of pregnancy. But in most cases, this also resolved after pregnancy.
Stretch Marks are also common. Generally, these don’t appear until the third trimester and can sometimes itch.
Hormone changes can lead to an increase in spots. Plus skin can also become more sensitive or itchy.
Try to – Reduce your exposure to the sun, this will help with skin pigmentation. If you are going out make sure you use high-factor sun creams to protect your skin. For stretch marks try to minimise them by using skin creams. Ones rich in vitamin E are good. Stretch marks will fade over time, although they will not totally disappear.
Combat acne by gently cleaning your face with a suitable cleanser.
For sensitive skin, watch the products you are using on your skin, from detergents to creams and perfumes if your skin becomes sensitive any one of these could be the problem.
6. Feeling HOT HOT HOT
Your base body temperature will increase during pregnancy so wear loose cotton clothing to help keep you cool. You will also need to drink more, so watch your water intake to ensure that you don’t get dehydrated.
Check out my 5 Top Tips for Surviving Summer when Pregnant to help you beat the heat.
7. Do my boobs look big in this?
Well if you are pregnant you might see an increase in size, sensitivity and colouring as your body naturally prepares for supplying milk to your little one.
6. Metabolic Rate
Your metabolic rate increases during pregnancy which explains the need for additional calorie consumption. Although make sure that they are healthy calories you are consuming!
7. Your Circulation & Heartbeat
An increase in blood vessel size and additional stresses on the heart and lungs can lead to feeling dizzy, breathlessness and blood pressure changes. Did you know that during your second trimester a mother’s heartbeat increases 30 to 50 %?!
Try to – Keep exercise to low impact, and avoid lying on your back for prolonged periods.
Whatever your pregnancy experience, most of the changes will pass. And just as your body at 30 is not the same as when you were younger, your body after children will also be different. But we should all celebrate how amazing women’s bodies are and just what they can do.
If you are looking to book a maternity photo shoot to record this special time then just click this link to find out more.
SAMPHIRE PHOTOGRAPHY | HORSHAM PHOTOGRAPHER | SPECIALISES IN NEWBORN, BABY, MATERNITY & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY
