The Inside Scoop on Being Pregnant

Learn what to expect (that your girlfriends may not tell you)

The happy outcome—All the uncertainties and changes of pregnancy are forgotten in the joy of baby’s arrival, as Sally Gilotti of Lehighton (the author of this story) and 4-month-old Madison demonstrate.

When to Worry

Not all changes during pregnancy are normal. “If any of the following symptoms occur, talk to your doctor right away,” says maternal-fetal medicine physician Orion Rust, M.D.. He and his colleagues at Lehigh Valley Hospital specialize in caring for highrisk mothers-to-be.

• Vaginal bleeding
• Contractions before 37 weeks
• Watery fluid from the vagina
• Severe back pain
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Severe leg pain, which could be a sign of blood clots
• “Blues” that last more than a week or two or interfere with daily functioning

You’re pregnant. If you’ve talked to your doctor, family and friends and done some reading, you know you’re in for major physical changes. “But some pregnancy-related changes are rarely mentioned and often overlooked,” says obstetrician Amanda Flicker, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. You may not experience all these changes—pregnancies are very individual—but here’s what to expect, say Flicker and her colleague, obstetrical nurse Jill Moyer, R.N.

Overactive nose—You can smell more, and smells that were once pleasing may be bothersome. Also, hormones trigger the mucus membranes in your nose, causing congestion. Use a humidifier and drink lots of fluids. Don’t be surprised if you start snoring.

Saliva factory—You may develop an uncontrollable urge to spit, as you produce more saliva during pregnancy. Taking vitamin B6 and avoiding acidic foods can help.

Big hair—Your hair goes through a natural cycle of growing and falling out. During pregnancy, it skips the falling-out phase, resuming (sometimes in clumps) about three months after delivery. Don’t panic; it’s normal.

Raccoon mask—The skin across your cheeks and nose may darken, creating the “mask of pregnancy.” Higher estrogen levels boost melatonin, the darkening agent in skin. Wear a hat and sunscreen if you must be in the sun.

Bigger breasts—Your breasts will ache and grow a whole cup size or more. For better support, try a maternity bra with wide straps and back adjustment.

Popped belly— If your belly button changes to an “outie,” tell your doctor. You could have a hernia. If it doesn’t disappear after delivery, it will need to be surgically corrected.

Cramps, again?— You thought they disappeared with your period, but they can occur during pregnancy if you’re dehydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily. If cramps persist, tell your doctor.

Varicose veins— They’re uncomfortable and can develop on your legs and even your labia due to increased pressure in your veins. While there’s no preventing them, ice may provide comfort.

Dreaded discharge—Hormone changes cause a clear, white or yellow discharge that can’t be prevented. If it darkens, itches, burns or has an odor, tell your doctor; you could have a vaginal infection. Meanwhile, wear panty liners and change them frequently.

“Fankles”—Also known as fat ankles, these occur as your body retains fluid, especially in summer. In fact, swelling all over your body is normal. Drink lots of water. For severe swelling, ask your doctor about compression stockings.

Emotional roller coaster—If you cry at the drop of a hat, blame the hormone changes of pregnancy and your natural anxieties about having a child.

Want to Know More about how to prepare your body for childbirth? Call 610-402-CARE.

Published from Healthy You Magazine, January-February 2008

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