17 Fascinating Insights To Know Your First Time Of Pregnancy
Congratulations on your FIRST pregnancy! You’re a soon-to-be mama whose path is full of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes nervousness. I’m sure countless unanswered questions and thoughts flooded your mind when you discovered the BIG news. So let’s prepare you for some things that may happen during your first time of pregnancy! These seventeen fascinating insights will help you better understand what to expect.
1. Acne Could Appear OR Not
Pregnancy hormones can cause breakouts for some, even if you have never had acne. Maintaining a healthy skincare routine during pregnancy is essential to prevent acne and keep your skin feeling good.
2. Brain Fog (aka Mommy Brain) Is REAL
The feeling of forgetfulness or being scatterbrained, often referred to as “mommy brain” or “pregnancy brain fog,” can happen.
Fortunately, scientific evidence supports these claims; researchers have found that fluctuating hormones during pregnancy can affect cognitive function. While the extent of cognitive decline may vary from woman to woman, it is accurate and can be challenging to navigate.
Just know this is a temporary thing and not a permanent state of being.
3. Braxton Hicks Contractions Are NORMAL
Braxton Hicks contractions are mild, painless contractions that occur throughout pregnancy. They are a normal sign of your uterus preparing for labor. So do not panic if or when this happens!
If your contractions become intense at more regular intervals, this may not be a Braxton Hick contraction but a real contraction. It’s best to follow up with your healthcare provider asap.
4. Hair May Become Thicker
Get your glow on, Mama! Since your hormones change throughout pregnancy, it can stimulate hair growth and thicken your hair. Enjoy the luscious locks while they last.
Also, Biotin, (also known as Vitamin B7), found in foods like fish, nuts, eggs, etc., can stimulate hair growth AND is a critical nutrient to benefit your baby’s growth. That’s a win-win in my book!
5. Morning Sickness Can Strike Anytime, Ugh
Morning sickness is a common symptom during pregnancy. But, contrary to its name, it can happen any time of the day. So, don’t be surprised if you feel nauseous in the morning, afternoon, or night.
Thankfully, I had nausea and not morning sickness with all three of my kiddos. So don’t think this is a definite thing that will happen to you because it may not!
6. Nutrients Matter
You may need more nutrients during pregnancy since pregnancy puts additional nutritional demands on your body.
Focus on essential nutrients like fruits, veggies, whole grains, protein, iron, and folic acid. Maintaining a healthy pregnancy diet can benefit your baby’s growth and development.
7. Sleeping Could Become A Challenge
Finding a comfortable sleeping position can become a challenge as your baby grows.
Try sleeping on your left side during pregnancy because it can help improve blood flow to the baby and improve kidney function. One way is to put a pillow between your knees and one under your belly to allow you to sleep more comfortably.
8. Spider Veins Can Pop Up
While your body changes, it will contain more significant amounts of blood. Usually, only temporary, tiny red or blue veins can appear (usually in one area of your body). Typically the legs, belly, arms, face, or neck.
These lovely veins popped up on my legs and disappeared after pregnancy.
9. Stretch Marks Are Common
Have to love it, but stretch marks are common during pregnancy. They occur as the skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby.
The good news is that treatments are available to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. I used Earth Mama stretch mark cream throughout my pregnancy and got no crazy stretch marks.
10. You Might Experience Round Ligament Pain
As your uterus expands, you might experience sharp pains in the sides of your abdomen. This is called round ligament pain and is a typical symptom of pregnancy.
I experienced this during my first time of pregnancy with our son when my stomach started to get bigger.
11. Your Cravings May Get A Little Cray Cray
Cravings are another common symptom of pregnancy. But, first-time moms might be shocked to discover how bizarre their cravings can get. From pickles and ice cream to ice OR even dirt, nothing is off-limits. But it is, so please don’t eat dirt!
12. Your Feet Might Get Bigger
Pregnancy hormones relax the ligaments in your feet, causing them to spread. As a result, your shoe size MIGHT change during pregnancy. So, don’t invest in expensive shoes until your baby is born.
13. Your Hormones Will Affect Your Emotions
Pregnancy hormones can make you feel emotional and moody. Yep, just like that time of the month, it can be off and on throughout pregnancy. It’s normal and OK to feel overwhelmed or weepy during pregnancy. Just remember, it’s a temporary phase!
Also, I’m a firm believer that if you are eating the proper nutrients throughout pregnancy and after, it can help your mood and overall well-being.
14. You Might Leak Colostrum
Colostrum, the first milk produced during pregnancy, might start leaking from your nipples in the later stages of pregnancy. This is normal but can be surprising for first-time moms.
15. You Might Need To Pee or Poo During Labor
As your baby moves down the birth canal, it puts pressure on your stomach and bladder. It’s not uncommon for first-time moms to feel like they need to do their business during labor. Don’t worry; your healthcare provider will take care of everything.
I feared this when I went into labor with our now oldest. But I’m here to tell you, it was NOT a big deal and should be the least of your worries! And no, I did not do my number, but it did feel like I had too, lol. Just think of your beautiful little angel (OR angels) you are about ready to meet. 🙂
16. You’ll Need To Pee, A LOT
Pregnancy puts pressure on your bladder, so you must visit the bathroom more often. As your pregnancy progresses, this will only get worse. So, be prepared to make frequent bathroom trips throughout the day and possibly in the middle of the night as your belly grows.
17. Your Sense Of Smell Will Get Stronger
Pregnancy hormones can make your sense of smell way more sensitive. This means you might be able to smell things you never noticed, both good and bad.
When I was pregnant with my twins, I DESPISED the smell of shampoo or conditioner. So weird, I know!
To Wrap It Up
Pregnancy is a unique experience that every woman goes through differently. I hope these fifteen fascinating insights will help first-time moms better understand the changes their bodies will undergo during pregnancy.
Feeling overwhelmed, emotional, or even shocked during pregnancy is normal. Stay informed and talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Again, a BIG congratulations on your journey to motherhood! You GOT this, Mama!
With Gratitude,
Linds
With your first time of pregnancy, what questions or tips do you have? I’d love to hear from you! Let me know in the comments below.
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