There are several physiological changes that occur in a woman during pregnancy. These changes need proper attention to set boundaries for what is normal and abnormal. Let’s dive into those changes right away.
Appetite is the body’s response for energy supply. Pregnant women have increased appetite due to a surge in ghrelin, so called “hunger hormone”. Leptin, so called “satiety hormone” is released when they are full. They both are also produced in the placenta.
Nausea, vomiting and ptyalism are due to increased parasympathetic activities. They can also be caused by pressure of uterus against the stomach. HCG when secreted produces these effects in the first trimester too.
It is common among pregnant women to feel a stabbing pain in the groin area by 3rd trimester. This is due to the stretching of the round ligament. As the volume of the uterus extends, so does this ligament stretch.
It is not yet over…..
Frequent urination is another noticeable instinct. This happens due to pressure of the uterus against the bladder. Vaginal discharge occurs due to raised vaginal mucus secretion. These can occur during the entire pregnancy.
Swelling of the legs can occur due to less mobility as weight gain progresses. Reduced oncotic pressure causes fluid to build up as well. This can happen in the 2nd half of the gestation period.
Stretch mark on the abdomen is an obvious mark during pregnancy. The placenta produces the corticotropic releasing hormone which stimulates the adrenal glands in producing cortisol. This cortisol is the genesis of the stretch mark as the support the build of fatty tissues.
Some pregnant women skin become darker in the 2nd half of pregnancy the melanocyte is stimulated. This cell releases those dark pigments in pregnancy.
What about sleep discomfort? This is as a result of complex reasons. The weight of the baby in the uterus, which is mechanical. It can also be due to the release of estrogen and progesterone by the placenta during pregnancy. This is commonly seen in the 2nd half of pregnancy.
Stomach acid reflux, & heart burn also occur in the 2nd half of pregnancy. This is due to delayed stomach emptying & pressure from uterus on stomach.
Braxton-hicks’ contractions are irregular in nature & their intensity varies. They usually occur in the 2nd half of pregnancy. Their occurrence can give a false impression of labor.