Congratulations, you are expecting a little one! At Verloskundigen PuurBegin we know all too well that being pregnant often feels like a rollercoaster of emotions, miracles and yes, also quite a few physical changes. We see it every day in our practice: the joy, the uncertainty, but especially the growing miracle. And with that miracle come quite a few everyday physical changes that sometimes raise questions. “Is this normal?”, we often hear. Spoiler: usually yes.
In this article, we delve into the world of the everyday physical changes that occur during pregnancy. We take you through the wonderful, sometimes uncomfortable, but above all beautiful changes that your body goes through when it hosts a new life. From morning sickness to mood swings and from pregnancy glow to those inevitable middle of the night bathroom trips – we cover it all.
Are you ready for this adventure? Great, let's walk together through this special journey, with all the highs and lows. And remember: at Verloskundigen PuurBegin you are never alone. Let's get started!
Leg cramps
Expectant mothers often experience unexpected muscle cramps, especially during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. These nighttime cramps can wake you up abruptly from your sleep and range from mildly uncomfortable to almost unbearable. But don't worry, there are ways to reduce the frequency and intensity of these cramps!
Here are some tips to get rid of that annoying leg cramps to help prevent or alleviate:
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- Get enough exercise throughout the day; a simple walk can do wonders.
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- Avoid standing or sitting in the same position for long periods of time; try to change your position regularly.
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- Stretch and massage your calf muscles before bed. This can help relax the muscles.
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- Make sure you get enough electrolytes, such as magnesium, potassium and calcium. These are crucial for good muscle function.
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- Hydrate well by drinking enough water throughout the day.
If cramps persist or are very painful, it is advisable to contact your midwife. Together you can see if additional measures are needed to relieve the symptoms. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person does not necessarily work for another. Listen carefully to your body and give it the care and rest it needs during this special time.
Constipation
During pregnancy the digestive system can be put to the test, blockage is a common problem. This discomfort is mainly caused by the hormonal changes that your body is undergoing. The hormone progesterone, which is found in higher concentrations during pregnancy, makes the muscles of your intestines lazier, slowing down transit time and keeping waste in your body longer. Additionally, the growing uterus can put pressure on your intestines, further complicating the situation.
To combat this blockage, there are some simple steps you can take. Start by taking in more fiber-rich diet in your diet; think fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Fiber helps stimulate your bowel movements. It is also important to drink plenty of water; dehydration can make constipation worse. Also try to do light exercise regularly, such as walking, which can help promote digestion. Here's a handy overview to incorporate these tips into your daily routine:
| Tips against constipation | How to implement |
|---|---|
| Fiber-rich diet | Add a piece of fruit to your breakfast every day and choose whole wheat bread for lunch. |
| Hydration | Carry a water bottle with you everywhere and set goals to fill and empty it multiple times throughout the day. |
| Light exercise | Plan daily walks, possibly together with a partner, friend or neighbor. |
It is normal to experience mild physical discomfort during pregnancy, but by paying attention to your diet and lifestyle you can reduce or prevent many of these symptoms. If the blockage persists or becomes severe, do not hesitate to contact your midwife or doctor. They can provide additional advice or possibly recommend safe medication to provide relief.
Dark spots on the face
A common occurrence during pregnancy are pigment spots, officially known as melasma or the “mask of pregnancy”. These spots typically appear on the forehead, cheeks and around the lips. They are caused by hormonal changes that affect the production of melanin, the pigment that colors our skin, hair, and eyes. Although they don’t hurt, some women can find them bothersome. The good news? They often fade away after giving birth!
Tips to minimize these pigment spots:
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- Avoid direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat or use an umbrella when outdoors.
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- Use a sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50 or higher) that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
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- Hydrate your skin well with products that are safe for pregnant women, without vitamin A in them
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- Consider using makeup to camouflage the spots if they bother you.
Remember that while these changes can be noticeable, they are usually temporary. However, if you have any serious concerns about your skin or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor. In the meantime, embrace the unique experience of pregnancy and the way your body is changing to make room for new life.
Sleep problems
Many pregnant women experience this at some point in their pregnancy. This is partly due to the increase in the hormone progesterone, which you sleepy can make, but it can still be difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position as your belly grows. The worriesand excitement about the baby's arrival can also have you tossing and turning.
What can you do to sleep better? First of all, it is important to develop an evening routine.
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- Sleep on your left side with a pillow between your legs for better blood circulation.
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- Avoid large meals just before bedtime.
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- Limit the use of screens an hour before you go to bed.
As for worries and stress, try relaxation techniques such as yoga or breathing exercises before going to sleep. Also check out the possibility of a pregnancy course via Midwives PuurBegin to prepare you both physically and mentally for childbirth.
| Sleep problem | Improvement proposal |
|---|---|
| Having to go to the toilet frequently | Try to reduce fluid intake in the evening |
| Leg cramps | Gentle Stretching Exercises Before Bed |
| Stomach acid | Avoid spicy and fatty foods |
| Restless legs | Take a warm bath or shower before going to bed |
Remember, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort during pregnancy. It is part of 'the journey'. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to contact your midwife. Together we can look at additional support or solutions specifically for you.
Joint pain
During pregnancy, your body and hormones go through all kinds of changes to make room for your growing baby. A common complaint that occurs is joint pain. This is mainly because your body, under the influence of hormones such as relaxin, loosens the ligaments and joints in preparation for the birth. It's like your body is running a marathon without you actually getting off the couch! Fortunately, there are several ways to relieve this pain.
Here are some tips:
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- Get plenty of exercise. Swimming and yoga are great for keeping your muscles strong and your joints as flexible as possible.
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- Eat a balanced diet and get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet to keep your bones and joints strong.
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- Get enough rest. Your body needs time to recover and strengthen, so don't push yourself too far and listen carefully to what your body needs.
If your symptoms persist or are severe, it's always a good idea to contact your midwife or GP. They can assess your situation individually and make appropriate recommendations. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so what works for one woman may not work for another. The most important thing is to be kind to your body and make the journey to motherhood as comfortable as possible.
Nausea and vomiting
One of the first signs that your body is performing miracles may be that you suddenly feel a little wobbly on your feet, with an unwelcome guest called nausea. This is especially common during the first trimester, and yes, “morning sickness” can strike at any time of day. The culprit? That miraculous cocktail of hormones that transforms your body into a cozy home for your little one. Luckily, there are a few tricks to combat this discomfort:
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- Eat small, frequent meals so as not to overload your stomach.
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- Ginger can become your best friend, whether in tea, biscuits or as a supplement.
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- Try sour and spicy foods to avoid that may worsen nausea.
Unfortunately, sometimes nausea can take on a more severe form, as a more persistent condition known as Hyperemesis Gravidarum. This requires medical attention and sometimes even hospital treatment to keep both you and your baby healthy. If you experience extreme symptoms, please do not hesitate to reach out. But let’s stay positive, for most mums-to-be this is a temporary phase and a small relief – it is often interpreted as a sign of a strong pregnancy. Hang in there, mum, you’re doing great!
| Meal | Foodstuffs |
|---|---|
| Morning | Ginger tea, Crackers |
| Afternoon | Light salad, Chicken soup |
| Evening | Yogurt with honey, Rice |
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you some insight into the common physical changes during pregnancy. Remember that every pregnancy is unique and it is completely normal if your experience differs from the norm. If you have any questions or uncertainties about your specific situation, we, as a team of Midwives PuurBegin, are always here to support and guide you. Your well-being is our top priority.
Keep listening to your body and don't hesitate to contact me for advice or a reassuring conversation. Remember that pregnancy is a special time and that you are not alone. Let's work together to ensure a pure start for you and your baby.
Cherish the little moments and trust that your body was made for this wonderful process. For more information, tips or sharing experiences, visit our website or follow us on social media. We are here for you, from the very beginning to your little one's first breath.
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Stay informed!
Follow us on social media for the latest news and a look behind the scenes at Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen.
Discover the daily adventures of our midwives, valuable tips for expectant parents and inspiring stories from practice.
Click on the buttons below and stay connected with our heartwarming team!
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Wishing you much happiness and health on this special journey!
With warm regards,
Midwives PuurBegin
Address: Orkestlaan 148, 8265RC Kampen
Telephone: 085 40 19 095
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