10 Most Common Changes Your Body Will Experience During Pregnancy: Embrace Every Step of Your Journey

For our Natural Baby Show, we're speaking to a variety of experts and professionals, asking for their top tips and advice for new or expecting parents. In this blog, hear from senior midwife, founder of Let's Talk Birth & Baby and The Honest Midwife, Louise Broadbridge, about the ten most common changes your body will undergo during pregnancy. 

Welcome to the incredible journey of pregnancy, where your body undergoes remarkable changes to nurture new life.

Here’s a guide to the ten most common changes you may experience during your pregnancy:

1. Growing Belly

As your baby grows, so does your belly. This might seem obvious, but it’s amazing to think about how your body makes room for a whole new person!

2. Pregnancy Glow

Have you noticed that radiant glow? Increased blood flow and hormonal changes give your skin that beautiful, healthy look. Many women also enjoy fuller, shinier hair during this time.

3. Morning Sickness

It’s not always pleasant, but it’s a sign that your pregnancy hormones are active and doing their job. Hang in there through the first trimester!

4. Breast Changes

Your breasts prepare for breastfeeding by becoming larger and sometimes sore. This transformation is your body’s way of getting ready to nourish your baby.

5. Back Pain

As your belly grows, your centre of gravity shifts, and ligaments loosen, leading to common back pain. Gentle exercises and good posture can provide relief.

6. Heartburn

Hormonal shifts and pressure on your stomach can cause heartburn. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage this discomfort.

7. Swelling

Increased blood volume and fluid retention can lead to swelling in your ankles and feet. Elevating your feet, staying hydrated, and gentle massage can alleviate discomfort.

8. Frequent Urination

Your growing baby puts pressure on your bladder, and hormonal changes increase urine production. It’s normal to feel like you need to wee all the time!

9. Changes in Nipples

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can darken the skin around your nipples and increase their size. This is normal and prepares your body for breastfeeding.

10. Increase in Vaginal Discharge

Increased oestrogen levels and greater blood flow to the vaginal area can lead to more discharge. This helps prevent infections, but be mindful of any changes in colour or smell.

While these changes during your pregnancy may present challenges, each one plays a vital role in supporting your baby’s development. Embrace these transformations as part of your body’s incredible journey to bring new life into the world. You’re doing amazing!

Louise is just one of the experts we've teamed up with for our Natural Baby Show, take a look here to discover how you can access more guidance and advice as well as great savings and giveaways. You can also sign up to be the first to hear about all exclusive our offers. 

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