How Will My Body Change During Pregnancy?

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So we all know a woman’s body is going to change during pregnancy. There will be happy changes and not so happy ones. Usually changes include gaining weight (yay…..), cravings, morning sickness, pain, mood swings, etc. But when does everthing usually happen? Honestly, it’s different for every woman, but here is an average break down of what changes to expect by trimester.

First Trimester

The first thing most women expect is the weight gain, but the first 3 months the average woman only gains 2-3 pounds.

Did you know...that 36% of women gain 20-30 lbs during their whole pregnancy? So ladies, it’s ok if our skinny jeans are starting to fit tight during this time.

Second, you might start to feel sick and tired more than usual. 70% of pregnant women will start to have morning sickness during this trimester. Usually, after 14 weeks it starts to go away for most women.

Lastly, during pregnancy your sense of smell will increase, especially during the first trimester. Some have said that this could be to help pregnant women avoid eating toxins that could harm the baby.

     

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Second Trimester

Now the pregnancy symptoms will really kick in.

• Symptoms could include:
• Occasional Headaches
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Increased Need to Urinate
• Increased Vaginal Discharge
• Stretch Marks
• Varicose Veins
• Leg Cramps
• Swelling of Feet and Ankles
• Average Weight Gain is 8-15 lbs

Also your emotions will be in motion. You might go from feeling really happy to all of sudden in tears and not be able to explain it. The key to working through your feelings is communication with everyone. This includes your partner, family, friends, and even doctors. This will help pregnant women not feel as depressed or anxious.

Did you know...that during this trimester your skin’s oil production rises and your blood volume increases by up to 50%? Giving you a noticeable glow.

     

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Third Trimester

The last three months! Woot Woot!

You will continue to experience pregnancy symptoms.

Symptoms could include:

• Dizzy Spells
• Nose Bleeds
• Shortness of Breath
• Backache
• Contractions (Braxton Hicks)
• Hemorrhoids
• Round Ligament Pain
• Possible Brownish Markings on face
• Possible dark line down the middle of your abdomen

Average weight gain during this trimester is 8-15 pounds.

Did you know...your baby only takes up 6-8 lbs of the 30 you might gain? But 8-10 of those lbs can be protein and fat your body will store because you are pregnant.

Source: University of Utah Health Care