There are few things that are as challenging to your body as carrying a baby and giving birth to your child. Not only can it be a strain in pretty much every area of your life from your relationship to your finances to your emotions, it’s also extremely physically difficult. Everyone already knows about morning sickness and a constant need to pee when you’re pregnant – but what are some other symptoms that you should be prepared for? Here are a few things you might be feeling…
Swollen feet
Especially if you’re pregnant over the summer, swollen feet might be an issue for you. This is mostly because of water weight, and they usually end up going down after your baby has been born – although this isn’t the case for every woman, so don’t start buying any heels in preparation for your post pregnancy life! If you’re experiencing the discomfort of swollen feet, make sure that you soak your feet in cool water when you get home from work and that you wear comfortable, supportive shoes at all times.
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Hyperpigmentation
When you’re pregnant you might suffer from discoloration on your face – look up facts about melasma if you want to find out more. This can take the form of brown marks on your face that can make your complexion look dull and sallow – which definitely isn’t the pregnancy glow that you were promised and can have a rough effect on your self esteem. Change up your makeup routine – apply a lightweight BB cream every morning and make sure that you keep moisturising. If you want to distract from any discoloration, go for a bright lipstick that pops.
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Depression
We’ve all heard about postpartum depression, which a lot of women suffer from – but prepartum depression is also a huge issue that simply isn’t talked about enough. If you’ve had to come off your usual depression medication during pregnancy, make sure that you talk to your doctor about it, and be kind with yourself – take time out when you need it, schedule time to relax and to hang out with your friends and do what you love. Remember that the way you’re feeling is valid, but that you can change it if you want to speak to a medical professional.
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Stuffy noses
Twenty to thirty percent of women experience stuffy noses during pregnancy – as if you needed to feel as though you have a permanent cold to add to the other extensive lists of unpleasant symptoms that you’re going through! This is caused by high amounts of estrogen that make your nasal membranes swell. Talk to your doctor about whether you can use decongestants or not.
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Dizziness
Finally, a lot of pregnant people experience dizziness thanks to all the changes that your body’s going through and the stress that you’re under. Make sure that you wear a bump on board badge to guarantee you a seat on public transport, and allow extra time when you’re going out so that you can take time out to sit down and rest without worrying.