The pregnancy glow, expanding of the belly, the swollen ankles and the throwing up. These are a few things we know would happen to our body during pregnancy. But there are a lot of unexpected and at times embarrassing changes that can happen that we don’t know about.
There are a lot of changes that can happen in the body during pregnancy. The internal organs will start to move to accommodate the unborn child. This can lead to numerous shift to regular body function. There is increased vaginal discharge, constipation, belching, and so on. It’s not something we openly talk about pregnancy. These embarrassing symptoms are completely normal, though. Read on to find out about these symptoms and how you can treat them safely.
Linea Nigra
Linea Nigra is a dark vertical line that can appear between the belly button and can reach the pubic area. This line can appear darker later in your pregnancy. This is caused by the increased estrogen and production of melanin. This can also darken the areolas and even the underarm. It is not something to be embarrassed about. This is a common problem that pregnant women face. There really isn’t much you can do to remove it but to sit tight and wait. After you give birth the line will eventually fade on its own. Though, tanning during pregnancy can intensify the discoloration of the skin. Wear a belly wrap or use a sun block.
Flatulence and Excess Gas
Every pregnant woman experience increases flatulence and excess gas. This is due to the hormonal surge that affects the gastrointestinal tract. What makes this worse during pregnancy is our lack of control over our muscles. Making holding in the gas a lot harder. A lot of pregnant women have difficulty holding excessive gas such as flatulence and burps during pregnancy. At times they may even experience not feeling it at all until it is out in the open. This is really a problem that is a part of pregnancy and cannot be erased completely. However, there are certain things you can do to reduce gassiness. Exercising regularly will help with gastrointestinal function and muscle control. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding foods that can cause excessive gas like broccoli, beans and carbonated drinks can greatly decrease excess gas.
Incontinence
Some women can experience stress incontinence during pregnancy. Coughing, laughing and sneezing can cause you to accidently empty your bladder. Though, it doesn’t happen as severely as you think. It can be as little as a few drops nothing that can actually leak unless you were holding your pee when it occurs. It can be a little embarrassing, especially when you are somewhere public or far from a restroom. Doctors advise women who suffer from incontinence to use a panty liner or even a menstrual pad. Take regular trips to the bathroom even if you don’t feel like going.
Facial Hair
Hormones during pregnancy can affect hair growth. It can cause your hair to grow thicker and in unwanted areas. Eyebrow hairs can be a lot messier, lip hair more noticeable and underarm hair a lot thicker. Never try to use depilatory creams that contain strong chemicals to remove excess hair and avoid waxing early and late in the pregnancy. The best option is to leave the hair alone. After pregnancy the hair growth will go back to normal.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids come as a huge shock to first time moms, but unfortunately this does occur regularly. This is a sure thing when it comes to pregnancy. This is often due to the strain during bowel movement and constipation. Reduce your chances of getting hemorrhoids by avoiding constipation. Use stool softeners, eat high in fiber foods and hydrate regularly. Consult your doctors on medication for hemorrhoids and fiber supplements you can take to reduce constipation.
Do not be ashamed to share symptoms you experience with your doctor. It is highly important for them to know about the changes in your body that you are going through. This can help them determine if your pregnancy is on track. Consult your doctor about safe medications you can use and which habits can make your symptoms worse.
