What is Pregnancy Like?

It’s pretty incredible to step back and think about how amazing it is as women that we are able to nourish and grow a “tiny human” all within our own body. As you can imagine, your body will undergo lots of changes to provide a perfect place for your baby to grow and develop until they are ready to be born. It’s very common to wonder if the symptoms you are experiencing are normal or if they are a sign of something more concerning. While each pregnancy will have its own set of unique qualities, there are some symptoms that you can generally expect.

Common “normal” symptoms you may experience earlier in your pregnancy:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Gas or bloating
  • Fatigue
  • Crankiness and mood swings
  • Missed period
  • Tender breasts
  • Food cravings
  • Spotting
  • Headaches
  • Cramps
  • Dizziness

As you continue to move through the months of your pregnancy, you will experience different symptoms. Some women will continue to have their early pregnancy symptoms into their later trimesters, but this isn’t true for all. The most obvious change is that as your baby grows your body will change to make room for your growing baby. Remember that you are now eating, sleeping, and using your energy for two people instead of one.

Common “normal” symptoms you may experience in your second and third trimester of pregnancy:

  • Mild swelling or puffiness in the face, hands, legs, feet and ankles
  • Expanding mid-section
  • Mood swings
  • Cravings
  • Fatigue and soreness as you adjust to new sleeping positions
  • More frequent urination as the baby pushes on your bladder
  • Heartburn
  • Backache
  • Constipation or upset stomach

Symptoms that may signal a problem and warrant a doctor call or visit:

  • Signs of preterm labor – vaginal bleeding or spotting, unusual fluid discharge, lower abdominal cramping, lower back pain, regular tightening of the abdomen (contractions) that doesn’t go away, or a gush or trickle of fluid from your vagina. If you are not near the end of your pregnancy, you may need to make an emergency room visit to get the urgent care that may be necessary
  • Urination problems – pain or burning when you urinate, especially if you have a fever as this may be a sign of an infection.
  • Sudden or excessive swelling or weight gain not related to overeating – especially in the face or hands
  • Severe pain – bad headaches, mid-back pain, strong stomach pain or cramps
  • Unusual rash or itching all over that isn’t paired with a rash
  • Illness or fever – dizziness, severe nausea or vomiting, or any higher-than-normal temperature
  • Persistent racing heart and/or shortness of breath
  • Changes in eyesight – vision loss, blur and/or sensitivity
  • Feeling your baby move less often
  • Pelvic pressure – some is normal, but it may be best to call your doctor

If you’re in any doubt or you just don’t feel right, it’s always better to consult your doctor. This way, you won’t worry, and if a problem does exist, it can be taken care of immediately.

Carrying, nourishing and growing your baby is one of the strongest and most beautiful things a woman can do. Ensure that you are giving your baby the best-possible start in life by receiving prenatal care. Learn about prenatal care and its important role in your pregnancy on our website HERE. In addition to prenatal care, try to reduce the amount of stress in your life. While this is much easier said than done, there are small steps you can take to reduce your stress throughout the day.

Eight ways to reduce your stress during (and after) pregnancy:

  1. Regular breathing exercises to calm your mind and body
  2. Listen to nature music or spa-like music
  3. Take a warm bubble bath with candles and soft music
  4. Rest by establishing a bedtime routine that is calming and involves no screen time
  5. Drink a warm cup of herbal, caffeine-free tea and think about the blessings in your life
  6. Eat a balanced diet to fuel your body with healthy choices
  7. Keep your body moving whether it be walking around the house, walking your dog outside, or stretching before bed
  8. Share your feelings with someone else you can trust, a mental health professional and/or your pregnancy counselor

Once you have delivered your baby, keep up the stress-reducing activities. While you can’t get rid of every stressor, you can do your best to manage your stress levels each day. It is also very normal to feel nervous and anxious about this new season in your life whether you choose to parent or place your child for adoption.

If your stress or anxiety feels unmanageable, reach out to your doctor, your mental health professional, or a Many Hearts pregnancy counselor. You don’t have to do this alone. We are here to help!