While some of the side effects of pregnancy can be uncomfortable and can temporarily reduce your quality of life, rest assured these discomforts are normal and do not signal any risks for either the mother or the child.
Nausea and vomiting
About one in every three pregnant women experiences morning sickness. It is often the first sign of pregnancy, and you may well be expecting your next period when the first signs of nausea appear. Usually, morning sickness lasts until the 16th or 20th week of pregnancy. In rare cases, severe vomiting can lead to dehydration and weight loss. This condition is called Hyperemesis Gravidarum and occurs in 1 to 3% of pregnant women [1]. There is no reason for alarm if bouts of morning sickness occur less than three times a day. Having small but frequent meals and limiting your intake of fatty or sugary foods may alleviate the condition.
Bleeding gums
Approximately 40% of pregnant women experience bleeding gums. Most often, it is caused by changes in hormonal levels [2]. Studies show that in most cases, during pregnancy, pre-existing diseases of the oral cavity intensify or worsen, and 29% of expectant mothers get them for the first time [3]. So make a point of visiting your dentist before or early in your pregnancy.
Mastalgia
This term refers to the engorgement and tenderness of the mammary glands. In early pregnancy, this symptom may resemble PMS, and it is, in fact, caused by the same fluctuating hormone levels. When you first visit a doctor, they will perform a breast examination, and — in the absence of nodules — you can rest assured this symptom will pass, usually by the end of the first trimester.
Drowsiness
Many women experience daytime sleepiness in the first trimester [4]. The reason is not fully known, but one cause may be the growing load on the blood vessels (after all, the body is preparing to pump blood for two). Another reason may be that during pregnancy, swollen sinuses can cause snoring or restless sleep, resulting in tiredness during the day [5].
Constipation
Having fewer than three bowel movements a week is considered constipation. In the case of pregnant women, the hormone progesterone may be to blame, as it can make food travel more slowly through the intestines. People who take iron supplements are also at risk, as they can cause a delay in bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water, exercising, and eating more fiber (vegetables, fruits, and cereals) should help. If you still have irregularity after taking these measures, talk to your doctor [6].
