Things I Didn’t Expect During Pregnancy
Pregnancy might be common, but some of the side effects that come with it can be as unique as each child-bearing mama. Chances are likely many of your female friends and family members have offered their own cautionary pregnancy tales in an effort to keep you well-informed and ahead of the learning curve. But even research and personal stories don’t prepare you for all the odd and bizarre changes that lie before you. Thankfully, KC Parent has you covered with more insight into the unusual. And have no fear—some of the crazy things awaiting you are super awesome!
The Not So Good
Crying at the Drop of a Hat
If you’re not naturally prone to crying, one of the biggest surprises that comes from pregnancy won’t be physical but emotional. With a surge of hormones running through her system, a pregnant mom can find herself teary-eyed at any occasion. And I’m not talking about crying at the climax of a sad movie or shedding a tear as a loved one moves away (when tears are expected). I’m talking about having a waterworks display on Aisle 9 when the grocery store runs out of your favorite cereal or getting misty-eyed when a coworker you didn’t know that well has a company retirement party. Crying for seemingly ambiguous reasons can be embarrassing when it takes place in public, but it’s even worse when you don’t know why you’re crying in the first place. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself grappling with very strong mixed emotions. It’s not unheard of for a pregnant mom to simultaneously laugh hysterically and cry uncontrollably.
Your Belly Isn’t the Only Thing That Will Change
Documenting your growing baby bump is a rising trend with multiple apps to prove it. Adoring friends and family can marvel at your burgeoning abdomen and relish the fact that Baby is now the size of a kumquat. But some parts of your body may change in ways that are less desirable (not to mention, you won’t want to draw attention to them!). Things like excessive hair loss, hair growth or change in hair texture (such as going from straight hair to corkscrew curls or vice versa) are par for the course, thanks to ever-changing hormone levels. Skin tags and pigment changes known as melasma also can be an unexpected surprise throughout pregnancy. But the changes don’t stop there. Some women experience restless leg syndrome, bleeding gums or a super sensitive nose. Thankfully, these are all short-term side effects. One potentially permanent change you may run into? An expanded foot size. Thanks to weight gain and added pressure, feet can take a beating, and it’s not uncommon to go up a half size or more after pregnancy. So consider holding off on those adorable Jimmy Choo’s until postpartum when you know your feet’s true size.
Hot Flashes Aren’t Just Reserved for Menopause
In an odd twist of fate, pregnancy might give you something new to bond over with your menopausal mom and her friends: hot flashes. That’s right! Progesterone, a thermogenic hormone, coupled with increased blood flow is the perfect recipe for a hot mama (literally and figuratively!). If you feel hot, it’s because you are. Pregnant women typically have an elevated temperature, meaning it’s not uncommon to find yourself sweating when everyone around you is comfortable.
The Good
You’ll Be a Walking Conversation Starter
When you made the announcement to family and friends that you were expecting, chances are everyone from your crazy second cousin to your quiet coworker felt compelled to tell you about their birth stories. But don’t be surprised if random strangers want to come up to you with well-wishes and their own personal stories, too. Many will want to make predictions as to whether you’re having a boy or a girl based on how you’re carrying. Some will be so bold as to guess how many you’re carrying (not a welcome exchange if you’re only having one baby!). Some moms-to-be find this banter to be invasive, but many more find it encouraging. Make no mistake about it: Pregnancy is a bonding agent, bringing people together over a common, yet miraculous, phenomenon.
Your Fashion Game Can Be Just as Strong
What girl doesn’t like the excuse for a new wardrobe? Whether you carry large or small, new clothes will be an inevitable part of your future. That alone can be a cue for rejoicing! But pregnant women these days have even greater reason for celebration: Modern maternity wear is super cute! Long gone are the days of circus tent-like tops meant to hide a baby bump. Say hello to trendy designs and fashions meant to accentuate the beautiful changes that are taking place within you. Even better still, many maternity clothing companies are making transitional wear, meant to extend the life of your clothing through postpartum, as well as tops that are breastfeeding-friendly.
Sayonara Acne!
Pregnancy may come with a lot of physical changes, but clearer skin is one we can all cheer for. Many women who struggle with cystic acne and zits during their periods comment on having better skin during pregnancy than any other time before. So, if you find yourself in the fortunate state of being blemish-free, chalk it up to that pregnancy glow everyone always talks about!
Lauren Greenlee is a boy mom of three and a freelance writer. Her biggest pregnancy surprise was finding that her feet grew from a standard width to a 4E width permanently. She enjoys running after her boisterous crew and writing from her Olathe home.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.