A Weekly Breakdown of Common Pregnancy Symptoms
December 17, 2021
Pregnant women experience a wide range of changes to their bodies from conception through delivery. And while no two moms-to-be will share an identical pregnancy journey, there are some symptoms that many pregnant women have in common.Here is a week-by-week overview of what you can expect during your pregnancy.
Weeks 1 to 4
During this time, symptoms are similar to menstruation: mild cramping, spotting, sore breasts, mood swings, constipation, bloating, fatigue, and a heightened sense of smell or taste. And, of course, a missed period.
Weeks 5 to 8
Some of the same symptoms from the first month carry over, including breast tenderness, fatigue, frequent urination, bloating, and mood swings. Here’s where morning sickness begins for many women, as well as headaches that can be brought on from caffeine withdrawal. Extra saliva production is also common.
Weeks 9 to 12
Morning sickness is still around, as well as a few new symptoms, including weight gain, increased clear vaginal discharge, digestive issues, visible veins, and round ligament pain in the lower belly. You’ll also start to notice a small baby bump and larger breasts. Acne is also a possibility, although some women experience a radiant pregnancy glow.
Weeks 13 to 16
At the end of the first trimester, dizziness and clumsiness may occur. You may also notice darker skin pigmentation, sensitive gums, a stuffy nose, and leg cramps. Mamas-to-be can also expect an increased appetite, increased energy, and increased libido!
Weeks 17 to 20
As baby grows, so do the backaches. Symptoms such as stretch marks, heartburn, constipation, swelling in the hands and feet, dry eyes, and varicose veins are also common. “Pregnancy brain” or increased forgetfulness is also possible. But something to look forward to – your baby begins to kick!
Weeks 21 to 24
Growing baby will put more pressure on your hips, groin, and abdomen and cause shortness of breath, which can lead to snoring. You’ll also see an outie belly button. Your hair and nails will grow fast, but your libido will slow down. You may also see some bleeding in your gums.
Weeks 25 to 28
With the approach of the third trimester comes general aches and pains, but also some strange new symptoms. Carpal tunnel syndrome caused by swelling and fluid retention in the hands and hemorrhoids are possible. All these new symptoms can lead to problems sleeping.
Weeks 29 to 32
As your body prepares to give birth, you may notice leaky breasts. You also may experience false labor pains that come and go; these are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. Some other symptoms from your first trimester may also return, such as fatigue and frequent urination.
Weeks 33 to 36
Your little one is letting their presence be known! Braxton Hicks contractions will continue, and so will the kicks! As baby moves down lower, you’ll experience some pelvic pain, but breathing will get easier.
Weeks 37 to 42
Symptoms such as swelling, frequent urination, insomnia, and pelvic pain will continue until baby’s arrival. You’ll also lose your “mucus plug” about two weeks before labor. As labor nears, you’ll experience an increase in contractions, back pain, and dull abdominal pain, and restlessness.
If your brain is spinning, understand that you may or may not experience these common symptoms. If something doesn’t feel right, you should always trust your instincts and contact your doctor when you have concerns.
Prenate® Vitamin Family
This post is brought to you by the Prenate® Vitamin Family, a line of prescription prenatal supplements designed to enhance preconception, prenatal, and postpartum nutrition in women. Talk with your doctor about how taking a daily prescription prenatal or postnatal vitamin could help support a healthy pregnancy and postpartum wellness.
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