The Pains of Motherhood: Five Ways Pregnancy Changes Your Body
Having a baby is one of the most rewarding and challenging things a mom will experience. A baby brings so much joy to a family, but it is no secret pregnancy can drastically change your body. Every body will experience changes differently during pregnancy. Here are a few thing you might expect.
Wider Hips and Larger Tummy
When you have a baby growing in your body for nine months, it is impossible to prevent your hips getting wider. As you get closer to your due date your hip bones will widen. It is nature’s way of preparing for an easier labor. After you give birth to your baby, your stomach may still look and feel stretched out. Things will go back to normal eventually, it all depends on the body type.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are probably the most common fear about pregnancy. While some women don’t get any, some moms can get stretch marks on their legs, stomach, and many other areas. There are many lotions that claim to prevent and erase stretch marks. There is also the option of getting Scar Removal surgery.
Mood Swings and Cravings
While pregnant and even after childbirth, the hormones in a woman’s body are at an all-time high, resulting in changes in behavior. From strange cravings, to intense mood swings, mental health during pregnancy is nearly always affected.
Aches, Pains, and Swelling
A woman’s body goes through many different changes during a pregnancy. Not only are you growing a human inside of you, but your body has to prepare for the birth as well. Many women have lower back and hip pain from the body trying to accommodate for the baby. Another common side effect is swelling of the feet or hands. Aches and pains are to be expected during pregnancy, but if anything feels abnormal be sure to tell your physician.
Changing Breasts
To prepare for the infant, the body will need to produce milk. Many women grow up two or three cup sizes during pregnancy. Right after you have your baby, milk comes in and makes the breasts feel larger, more tender, and sometimes even downright painful. Take proper care of them while breastfeeding to keep you and the baby healthy.
Although being pregnant can take a toll on a woman’s body and cause aches and pains, your baby should arrive safe and healthy.
