Your body is going to undergo a number of major changes throughout the course of your pregnancy, and even if this isn’t your first time going through the process, you may find yourself wondering if what you’re experiencing is normal or not.
In a previous blog, we touched on some of the symptoms of an emergency during different stages of your pregnancy, but in today’s blog, we’re going to look at some normal and abnormal symptoms you may notice during your pregnancy, as well as some tips on what you should do if you experience any of these abnormal symptoms.
Normal Pregnancy Symptoms
Here’s a look at some of the more common changes and symptoms that many women experience throughout the course of their pregnancy. As long as symptoms remain mild, you shouldn’t have to worry, but never be afraid to talk with your women’s care provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing at your next appointment. With that said, here are some symptoms that are common during pregnancy:
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Swelling, Aches and Discomfort – Your body tends to hold more water when you’re pregnant, which can lead to swelling in your extremities, especially your feet. You may also be achy and uncomfortable as your body expands to make room for your developing baby.
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Nausea and Morning Sickness – Hormonal changes can also lead to feelings of nausea, which are oftentimes most noticeable in the morning. If nausea is making it difficult to maintain your balance or keep food down, contact a doctor, but if you’re just feeling a little lightheaded, try taking it easy for a while, as some nausea is normal.
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Mild GI Issues – Many women experience mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues throughout the course of their pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes and how the expanding uterus can put additional pressure on your GI tract. Mild heartburn, constipation and bowel changes are not uncommon.
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Increased Vaginal Discharge – You may also notice an increase in vaginal discharge during the course of your pregnancy. Also as long as there is no major bleeding, large clots or significant changes in the consistency of your discharge, it’s likely a normal part of the pregnancy process.
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Skin Discoloration – Hormonal changes can lead to changes like slight skin or nipple discoloration, but this should revert once hormones normalize following childbirth.
Abnormal Symptoms
We touched on some of abnormal symptoms above, like heavy bleeding or the passage of large clots, but a few other abnormal symptoms to be aware of are:
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Fever – A fever may be indicative of an infection, which could cause problems for both expectant mother and child. Let your provider know if you are experiencing symptoms associated with a fever.
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High Blood Pressure – You likely won’t notice this symptom on your own, but if prenatal exams reveal that your blood pressure is dangerously high, your provider may recommend a few different courses of care. This speaks to the importance of attending all of your regularly scheduled prenatal appointments.
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Significant Symptoms – If any physical symptom has become severe or intense, know that this is abnormal. If you’re dealing with extreme or intense pain, nausea, GI issues, headaches, blurred vision or balance issues, talk with your provider as soon as possible.
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Burning Sensation When Peeing – Discomfort when emptying your bladder could be a sign of an infection that could cause problems for you and your unborn child.
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Labor Symptoms – If you are experiencing symptoms of preterm labor labor like significant vaginal discharge and cramping or contractions, it’s worthwhile to reach out to your doctor to see if more hands-on care is required.
Let us help you safely navigate your journey through pregnancy and childbirth. For more information about what to expect and what to watch for throughout the course of your pregnancy, reach out to the team at MetroPartners OBGYN today at (651) 770-3320.