Early Pregnancy Symptoms
There are some symptoms of pregnancy that everyone seems to know, such as nausea, strange cravings, frequent urination. But there are other signs of pregnancy you might not expect. Here's a guide that lists them, when to expect them, and what to do about them.Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms
Pregnancy Symptoms
The bosom
Everyone knows breasts and nipples get sore during pregnancy. But some women notice that fluid comes out of their nipples during pregnancy. The liquid is called colostrum, a very nutritious early form of breast milk. The occurrence of colostrum during pregnancy is normal and there is nothing to fear.When it happens: Already in the 14th week.
What you can do about it: If it bothers you, you can try to put a handkerchief or nursing pads in your bra to absorb it.
exhaustion
One of the first signs that many pregnant women notice is extreme fatigue. Some women have difficulty staying awake during the day and sleep much sooner than usual. No one knows exactly what causes pregnancy fatigue, but it is probably related to the rapidly increasing level of progesterone.When it happens: Exhaustion is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy that many women notice, sometimes even before they get a positive pregnancy test. It often continues during the first trimester, stops in the second trimester, and returns in the third trimester, when the growing stomach and pain make it harder to sleep well.
What you can do about it: The best way to treat the exhaustion in the first trimester is to rest a lot! Finally, a baby grows up, and that takes a lot of work.
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Metallic taste in the mouth
For something nobody seems to talk about, a metallic taste in the mouth is a surprisingly common early pregnancy symptom. It also means dysgeusia; some women experience it as if they were sucking on cents or aluminum foil. It is believed to be caused by increased levels of estrogen because the hormone plays a role in the sense of taste and smell.When it happens: Dysgeusia usually occurs in the first trimester and disappears during the second trimester.
What you can do about it: acidic foods can help to balance the bitter, metallic taste. Sour sweets, citrus juices and marinated foods (gherkins, anyone?) Can provide relief.
Painful orgasms
It is normal for the uterus to contract during orgasm - this also happened before pregnancy. Changes in the uterus during pregnancy, however, may cause these normal contractions to be prolonged and thus uncomfortable. Do not worry - it does not mean that contractions begin, and it's not dangerous for yourself or for the baby (and some women find that increased blood flow to the uterus actually improves orgasm!). Another really weird fact about orgasms during pregnancy: Uterine contractions can cause the abdomen to take a sharp shape in the short term!When it happens: Second trimester and beyond.
What to do about it: If orgasms feel uncomfortable, unfortunately, there is not much to do except to have them. And that's no fun!
Painful flatulence
Even though one has only learned about pregnancy, indigestion can already occur. It feels like you have the worst bloating you've ever had. Usually, that's exactly what it is. Increased progesterone levels in the first trimester slow down the digestive process and relax the intestinal muscles. As a result, food stays in the gut for longer, so that flatulence has more time to develop, sometimes resulting in excruciating pain. The pain can stay in one area or migrate into the abdomen, back and even chest. In addition, as the pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus puts pressure on the internal organs, which slows digestion and can cause bloating.When it happens: During the entire pregnancy
What to do about it: eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals. Drink enough water. Avoid carbonated drinks, as well as hard-to-digest fiber, eg beans and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage). Sport can also help relieve bloating.
Thick, shiny hair
Unlike most other pregnancy symptoms , most women probably will not mind: Many women find their nails grow faster and their hair looks thicker and shiny.It does not really grow any more hair, you just lose less than you normally do. If you are not pregnant, about 85 percent of your hair is in the "growth stage" and the other 15 percent is in the "resting state". The dormant hair finally falls by itself and is replaced by new growth. A woman who is not pregnant loses an average of 100 hairs per day.
During pregnancy, higher levels of estrogen prolong the growth phase, resulting in less hair loss. These hormonal changes can also cause the hair to appear shiny. This should be enjoyed as long as it lasts, because after the birth everything is back to normal.
When it happens: It's noticeable in the second trimester.
What can you do about it: a chic hairstyle! If one notices that the hair grows in unwanted areas, faster - such as upper lip, nipples and stomach -, one should grab the tweezers or visit a waxing studio (but do without depilatory or bleach).
Stretch marks everywhere
More than half of all pregnant women get the dreaded pink, red or purple stripes, which are called stretch or stretch marks. And they not only appear on the stomach, they can also occur on buttocks, thighs, hips and breasts. In fact, there are tiny cracks in the supporting layers of tissue that appear under the skin while it is being stretched during pregnancy. Genes decide if you are vulnerable.When it happens: Between twelfth and 21st week of pregnancy
What to do about it: There are all sorts of creams, gels and herbal remedies that are supposed to reduce or prevent stretch marks, but no method has proven effective. Moisturizing creams can have a soothing effect, but they can not reduce stretch marks. A quick weight gain can increase stretch marks, so a moderate pace can help a little bit. But again, there is no sure way to prevent stretch marks, so the best solution is to wear them with pride!
Vaginal varicose veins
During pregnancy, an increase in blood volume and a decrease in blood flow to the lower body can put pressure on the veins. You may have heard that this may contribute to leg varicose veins, but few know that it can also cause varicose veins in the vulva.The symptoms of vulvar veining include a feeling of fullness or swelling in the vaginal area. In severe cases, the dilated vessels may look like worms. Long-standing, sports and sex can aggravate the condition.
When it happens: The risk is greatest during the third trimester.
What you can do about it: Pressure can help minimize discomfort. You can search for support clothing that has been specially developed for this condition. And if the exercise routine seems to make things worse, you'd better go swimming. The water helps to lift the baby and improve blood flow out of the pelvis. Other things that promote blood circulation can also help, such as lying down on a pillow while lying down. And if none of these remedies work, do not worry - the varicose veins usually disappear by themselves one or two months after birth.
Darker skin
Dark spots on the face - called melasma - are common during pregnancy. These areas of increased pigmentation are sometimes referred to as a pregnancy mask and typically appear around the upper lip, nose, cheekbones, and forehead.It is believed that melasma is caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which can temporarily increase the amount of melanin the body produces. Melanin is the natural substance that produces pigmentation in the skin.
When it happens: Usually during the first trimester
What you can do about it: sun exposure can make melasma worse, so use sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat outside. Soothingly, in most women the pregnancy mask disappears on its own within a few months after birth.