Physical Changes to Your Body During Pregnancy

Causes of Fatigue, Aches, Nausea, Ulcers and Heartburn in Pregnancy

Jul 14, 2009

Besides the obvious changes to your body during pregnancy, drastic physical and hormonal changes cause symptoms of discomfort which can be alleviated or reduced.

During pregnancy the body undergoes enormous physical and hormonal changes over a relatively short period of time. The body has to adapt to carrying up to 20lb of baby, fluids and placenta – and weight gain, imposing physical strain on all the organs and tissues.

Fatigue

Exhaustion is common during the first trimester of pregnancy as levels of the hormone progesterone rise, causing fatigue and sleepiness. As your body prepares the foundations of a pregnancy and the embryo develops into a complete fetus, the mother’s metabolic rate is much higher than normal and changing hormone levels also add to the emotional toll. In most women, energy levels are much better during the second trimester, but fatigue is again common near the end of the pregnancy.

Aches and pains may occur as the body’s posture and shape changes to accommodate the increasing size and weight of the uterus. Most of this weight is carried in front causing the centre of gravity to shift. The natural shape of the female pelvic bones is wider and and shallower; designed to allow the uterus to grow and carry a new life. Another noticeable difference is the much wider angle at the bottom of the pelvic bones.

During pregnancy, the ligaments of the whole body are softened by hormones to allow the bones of the pelvis to separate slightly during delivery. Postural changes through the lower ribs and spine can cause back and neck strain, headaches, aching legs, undue fatigue and even strained breathing.

Nausea and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Nausea and vomiting particularly in the morning are common. They may be caused by high levels of estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin which are needed to maintain the pregnancy. These hormonal changes also cause digestion to slow down making some foods intolerable and causing cravings for others. Nausea and vomiting may be relieved by changing the diet or patterns of eating, such as eating small portions more frequently, eating bland foods and having protein-rich foods before going to bed. Having a few plain crackers when you wake up may also help.

Heartburn is common particularly in the third trimester because of increased pressure on the stomach, food remains in the stomach longer and because the circular sphincter muscle at the lower end of the esophagus relaxes allowing the contents of the stomach to flow into the esophagus. Symptoms can be relieved by eating smaller meals, not lying flat for several hours after eating, avoiding aspirin and related salicylate drugs and taking liquid antacids (that do not contain sodium bicarbonate). Heartburn at night can be alleviated by not eating for at least two hours before going to bed and using pillows to prop up the head and shoulders while sleeping. Despite these symptoms, the stomach actually produces less acid during pregnancy. Consequently stomach ulcers rarely develop during pregnancy and preexisting ulcers often heal.

At later stages pressure from the enlarging uterus on the large intestine may cause constipation. Constipation is also caused by the high level of the hormone progesterone which slows the muscular contractions in the intestine. Eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly can help reduce discomfort. Its also beneficial to begin strengthening the pelvic-floor muscles early with kegal exercises, by contracting and relaxing the muscles as though to stop and start the flow of urine.

Pregnancy and Dental Health

Good dental hygiene prevents tooth decay and lowers the risk of passing bacteria onto your baby through saliva. Bacteria in the mouth from plaque and tooth decay and in the gums due to gingivitis can cause serious inflammation in other parts of the body including in the cardiovascular system and even in the uterus. This may be a cause of miscarriage or the inability to conceive in some women.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect the gums, making them more susceptible to inflammation from bacteria along the gum line. Vomiting which is normal during pregnancy can also erode the protective enamel of teeth and cause decay; gargle with water to cleanse the mouth but wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth as the stomach acid may weaken the surface enamel.

Have regular dental cleanings and checkups before becoming pregnant as dental x-rays should be avoided by pregnant woman. However any pain, swelling or infection in the mouth should be treated immediately because this can affect the health of both the mother and baby. Overall well-being and care is important for a healthy pregnancy.

The copyright of the article Physical Changes to Your Body During Pregnancy in Pregnancy & Childbirth is owned by Noreen Kassem. Permission to republish Physical Changes to Your Body During Pregnancy in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.