Pregnancy

Even before a woman knows for sure that she is pregnant, her body is already starting to change. It can be a wonderful experience and many women feel good and strong, especially by their second trimester. However, while every pregnancy is different, there are common discomforts most women have that can take getting some used to, such as weight gain, morning sickness, and fatigue. Getting enough rest, eating right, not over-doing it, and exercise can help to ease the symptoms. It is important to have regular pre-natal care from your health care provider.

A woman's body image can change during pregnancy. Skin changes such as acne or spider veins on the face and varicose veins on the legs can occur. Some women feel more emotional because of changing hormones. Sleep loss can add stress to already stressed lives. Women can worry about their changing roles, from being in the workplace, a wife, a single person, to becoming a mother and a caregiver. Women may have concerns about how a new baby will affect their other children. Relationships with partners can change, which can affect how women feel about themselves. It is important to talk to your partner, family, and friends about your feelings and concerns throughout your pregnancy. The National Women's Health Information Center has provided the following publications and organizations to help women learn more about managing pregnancy and how to maintain a positive body image.

Publications

Breast Changes (Copyright © Smart Moms, Healthy Babies)
This publication contains information on the way your breasts change during pregnancy and why these changes occur.

Pregnancy and Your Emotions
This fact sheet explains the normal emotions and concerns that occur during pregnancy and how to confront them-work, sex, sleep, and anxiety.

Skin and Hair Changes (Copyright © Smart Moms, Healthy Babies)
This publication provides information on how the changes in hormone levels can affect your hair and skin while you are pregnant.

Weight Gain During Pregnancy (Copyright © MOD)
This brief fact sheet explains how much weight a woman should gain during pregnancy by explaining how different aspects of pregnancy add to overall weight.

Your Body Changes (Copyright © YNHH)
This fact sheet informs expecting mothers of the physical changes they may experience during pregnancy, and tips for coping with them: morning sickness, ligament pain, tender breasts, dizziness, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, leg cramps, swelling, backaches, constipation, heartburn, headache, and vaginal discharge.

Organizations

= Federal government resources

Text on this page last updated: September 2001