Pregnancy causes numerous physical and psychological changes in women, but these experiences can vary greatly. Some women experience morning sickness, while others may feel nauseous throughout the day, or not experience any discomfort at all.
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(Photo: TTO) |
There are also changes that women may consider minor, such as shoes feeling tight and needing to buy a larger size, or changes in their bras. Issues like hemorrhoids may feel too embarrassing to discuss with a doctor. However, it is important to report even small or seemingly unrelated changes to a healthcare provider, as an experienced doctor will always be willing to listen.
1. Maternal Instinct: Pregnancy not only alters a woman’s physical state but also her psychological state. Expectant mothers often start preparing for their child’s arrival by cleaning and decorating the nursery, and considering ways to recover quickly after childbirth to care for their baby. However, excessive worry is not beneficial for either the mother’s health or the fetus.
2. Forgetfulness and Difficulty Concentrating: During the first trimester, pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and nausea can make women feel sluggish and less agile. Even women who are not particularly busy may find it hard to concentrate and prone to forgetfulness, possibly due to their focus on the baby and hormonal changes. Everything else might seem less important than the child in their womb and the upcoming delivery. To combat this lack of focus, it is advisable to write down important things to remember.
3. Mood Swings: The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and pregnancy share many similarities. Breasts become larger and more sensitive, and mood swings can be more intense than during the premenstrual phase, with sudden shifts from joy to tears or unexplained irritability. Mood changes are common during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester and the last days of the third trimester. About 10% of women may experience depression during pregnancy. If there are signs of sleep disturbances, changes in eating habits (such as loss of appetite or constant snacking), or prolonged mood swings lasting more than two weeks, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.
4. Breast Enlargement: This is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Breasts typically enlarge during the first trimester due to increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, and they may continue to grow during the course of the pregnancy. Additionally, lung capacity increases to provide oxygen for the fetus, causing the rib cage to expand, which may require many women to change their bras several times throughout their pregnancy.
5. Skin Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to increased pigmentation, resulting in dark or yellow patches on the face, a dark line down the abdomen, and darker areolas and external genitalia. The uneven distribution of pigment can create a mottled appearance. Although these pigmentation spots cannot be completely prevented, using sunscreen and wearing hats when outdoors can help mitigate their appearance.
Pregnancy can also trigger acne due to increased oil secretion from sebaceous glands, leading to existing pimples becoming darker and larger. Itching and skin peeling can occur due to stretching skin and acne. Using specialized creams for pregnant women or herbal baths may provide relief.
6. Hair and Nails: Hormonal changes during pregnancy reduce hair loss and can lead to faster hair growth. However, many women may experience hair loss in the postpartum period or after weaning. Some may notice hair growth on the face, abdomen, or around the nipples. Others may find their hair becomes drier or shinier (oily hair) or changes color. Nails also tend to grow faster and stronger during pregnancy, but some may find their nails more prone to breaking, in which case it is advisable to keep nails trimmed and avoid chemicals for dyeing or removing nail polish.
7. Footwear: While clothing may no longer fit, shoes can sometimes still be worn. Due to increased fluid retention, many women experience swelling in their feet and may need to change their shoe size. Wearing open-toed shoes is recommended to minimize foot swelling.
8. Joint Mobility: During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin is released to prepare the pelvic and cervical regions for childbirth. Relaxin softens ligaments, making a woman’s body less stable and more susceptible to injury, but it also allows for greater flexibility, particularly in the pelvic joints, lower back, and knees. When moving or lifting heavy objects, it is important to be gentle and avoid abrupt or forceful movements.
9. Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, and Constipation: Varicose veins can develop in the legs and genital area, often resolving after childbirth. To reduce the risk of varicose veins, it is advisable to avoid standing or sitting for long periods, wear loose clothing, and elevate the legs while sitting. Hemorrhoids, which occur due to increased blood volume and pressure from the uterus, can be painful and cause itching. Coupled with constipation, they can make bowel movements very uncomfortable for pregnant women. Slow bowel movements can worsen constipation and hemorrhoids. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and regular exercise are the best preventive measures. There are also topical medications available that can help shrink hemorrhoids.
10. During Labor and Delivery: The amount of amniotic fluid ranges from 500 to 1400 ml. If some fluid leaks (about a cup), there is no need to panic, as the body will replenish the amniotic fluid within three hours. Only about 10% of women experience premature rupture of membranes before labor, with most cases occurring when a midwife ruptures the membranes. It is also possible to experience minor bleeding, nausea, or vomiting. During the expulsion phase, there may be a loss of control over urine and bowel movements, so a cleansing enema is recommended before heading to the delivery room. Healthcare providers should guide first-time mothers about the basics of labor, including breathing techniques and pushing methods, starting from early prenatal visits.
Dr. ĐÀO XUÂN DŨNG
