Body Changes During Pregnancy
During pregnancy the entire body is readjusted. The heart pumps more blood, the lungs and digestive system work more efficiently.
Following are some changes during first trimester (Week 1 - Week 12)
• Cessation of menstrual period.
• Morning sickness that occurs at any time, day or night, or all day and night. which includes nausea and/or vomiting.
• Food cravings
• Excessive saliva
• Frequent urination
• Swollen and tender breasts
• Darkening of the areola
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Mood swings
Following are some changes during second trimester (Week 13 - Week 26)
• Weight gain
• Fetal movement
• Dry skin on stomach where the skin is stretching
• Thickening of the waist
• Breasts increase in size
• Hemorrhoids
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Constipation
• Nosebleeds
• Slight swelling in feet, hands, ankles and face
• Development of a dark line on the skin between your navel and your pubic area.
• Development of a "mask" or darker area on your face
• Backaches that can remain throughout pregnancy
• Nipple secretions
• Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs and at night
• Skin problems
Following are some changes during third trimester (Week 27 - 40)
• Increased fetal movement
• Navel protrusion
• Backaches
• Shortness of breath
• False labor
• Groin pains
• Stretch marks
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Varicose veins
If you experience any of the below changes talk to your gynecologist:
• Pain or burning during urination
• Swelling of the face, eyes, fingers or toes
• Severe abdominal pain
• Vaginal spotting or bleeding
• Leaking or gushing from vagina
• Blister or sore in vaginal area
• Uterine contractions
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Fever over 100 degrees
• Dizziness
• Severe headache
• Sudden weight gain
• Visual problems
• Absence of fetal movement for 24 hours
