Pregnancy is one of the most challenging, yet exciting and fulfilling times in a womanโ€™s life. Many pregnancy books and websites may gush about the joys of motherhood, give detailed reviews about strollers, and tell you what to put in your diaper bag, but there are some things that they donโ€™t tell you. For one thing, nausea or morning sickness doesnโ€™t always happen in the morning! Some pregnant women may experience it in the evenings, while others may feel a mild seasickness throughout the day. Here are some of the other things that often donโ€™t get mentioned at all until theyโ€™re happening to you.

pregnant

Pelvic pain

A pregnant womanโ€™s body releases a hormone called relaxin, which softens muscles, tendons, and ligaments to make them more flexible. This prepares the body for giving birth, but the flexibility can also cause symphysis pubis dysfunction or SPD, when the two halves of the pelvis become totally separated. This condition triggers backache and pain when walking, sitting, or standing. Pelvic pain may be alleviated by a gentle rub or massage, while severe SPD necessitates a visit to the physiotherapist.

Bleeding gums

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also cause gums to bleed more easily, so be gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth. For excessive bleeding, visit your dentist right away.

Hearing loss

If you experience ringing in your ears or loss of hearing, you can blame it on the hormones. Those who suffer from allergies can also experience nose stuffiness. The increase in the blood volume in pregnant women can affect the fluids in the inner ears, causing you to say โ€œWhat did you say?โ€ more often. Itโ€™s akin to getting blocked ears on a plane, but donโ€™t worry, itโ€™s only temporary!

Varicose veins

Those unsightly purplish veins on your legs, particularly on the backs of your calves, are caused by increased blood volume, which puts more pressure on your veins. The extra weight from pregnancy also contributes to the strain. Prevent varicose veins by propping up your legs and feet with a cushion while sitting, wearing supportive leggings or tights, and avoiding long periods of standing.

Lack of concentration

Mood swings, tiredness, and forgetfulness brought on by changes in your emotional state may turn you into a mess, making you enter a room and forget why. To keep your mind on track and maintain focus, keep a diary, use notes, and write down appointments and day-to-day tasks. Keep important items such as mobile phones and keys where you can easily see them.

Visits to the loo

Pregnant women may have an overwhelming need to pee, especially before their waters break. Some may find the use of medical catheters comforting, while others wear adult diapers in situations when they cannot go to the bathroom right away.

Constipation

Not a few women have experienced constipation and painful bowel movement during pregnancy. Changes in hormone levels can lessen the pace of the bodyโ€™s digestive process. If this happens to you, drink plenty of water, fruit, raw vegetables, whole-grain cereals, and other food rich in fiber.

These are just some of the topics that usually fall under the radar or are not commonly discussed in websites, pamphlets, and books on pregnancy. If you want to know more about these conditions, make sure you discuss them with your doctor on your next appointment.

 

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2 Comments
  • Jodie Fisher
    Friday, February 6, 2015

    i hated being pregnant – all three times. Great post!