So it’s finally happened, the moment you’ve been waiting for – you’re pregnant!
Now what?
You probably know to expect some morning sickness and swollen ankles and feet, but Women’s Health Magazine breaks down eight additional things that happen to your body (that you may not be expecting) while you’re expecting. We’ve paraphrased them below:
1. Getting a period
You may think that periods are a thing of the past (at least for the next nine months). This is not necessarily true. Spotting or light bleeding with mild uterine cramping for up to two days is not uncommon, BUT if the bleeding is severe and you are using more than one pad or tampon in a three hour period and/or your cramps are painful consult your doctor.
2. Sprouting moles
It’s not uncommon for moles to get larger, darker, or more raised due to pregnancy hormones. Post-delivery they should go back to normal. If not, it could be an indication of skin cancer so be sure to talk to your dermatologist.
3. Saliva overload
During the first trimester, saliva production may increase. The reasons for this are still unclear, but staying hydrated and chewing gum can help with the symptoms.
4. Hair growth
An increase in androgens, or male hormones, may mean darker hair growing on your legs, arms, and possibly your face. Progesterone will also increase, though, resulting in beautiful, luscious hair. All the hair on your body will return to normal after you give birth.
5. Lower voice
Also thanks to those hormones, you could gain a deeper tone of voice. This will return to normal after your bundle of joy arrives.
6. Sever itchings
Feeling like you have the chicken pox is no fun, but it is common during the third trimester. You can get some relief from oatmeal baths and antihistamines, but if your symptoms won’t go away, consult your doctor.
7. Vision changes
While pregnant, the water content of your cornea and lens will increase, possibly affecting your vision. Within a few months after you deliver, your vision will return to normal.
8. Bleeding gums
You can blame hormone changes for this one, too. While you’re pregnant, more blood flows to your gums, making them more sensitive and more likely to bleed while flossing or brushing. If your symptoms become severe, don’t be afraid to check in with your dentist.
These things may seem scary, but in most cases, they will only last up to three months and will go away after delivery. Your doctor can help determine whether something is a normal rite of passage, or if it’s something more serious.
