When most people think of pregnancy, they think of signs and symptoms like a growing belly, swollen ankles, and maybe some heartburn, particularly in the third trimester. But pregnancy can cause other symptoms, too — including some pretty unusual ones.
At his practice in Newburgh, Indiana, Paul W. Morrison, M.D., helps women navigate pregnancy with comfort and confidence, providing compassionate, customized pregnancy care along with guidance and education to help expectant moms know what to expect. Here, we review five lesser-known symptoms you might encounter during your pregnancy.
It’s hard to imagine how pregnancy could affect your nose and nasal passages, but it can. In fact, it’s so common that it’s got a medical name: pregnancy rhinitis.
Changes in your hormones can lead to swollen blood vessels in your nose, making your nose feel stuffy and congested. Tiny blood vessels in your nose are also more prone to breakage, which means you can wind up with nosebleeds, too.
Congestion and bloody noses aren’t the only nose-related symptoms you can have during pregnancy. Some women find their sense of smell also changes — and not in a good way.
These changes can occur in different ways, but typically, they result in a very strong sense of smell that emphasizes unpleasant odors and makes even pleasant scents, like perfume, unbearable and even nauseating. Like nosebleeds and congestion, researchers think hormonal shifts are likely to blame.
Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can increase gum sensitivity, too. Many women find their gums bleed during pregnancy, and you can be more prone to gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.
At the same time, you might notice the flavors of some foods change, becoming more intense or less palatable. Pregnancy also affects salivation: Some women experience dry mouth, while others find they produce more saliva than usual, increasing feelings of morning sickness.
Once again, hormonal fluctuations come into play. While some women find the boost in estrogen makes their locks extra luscious and shiny, other women experience dry, brittle hair that looks dull or is more prone to breakage.
Fortunately, changing your shampoo and conditioner can help your hair stay healthy throughout your pregnancy months. After delivery, it’s not uncommon to have some initial hair loss as your body adjusts to its prepregnancy state.
Varicose veins happen when tiny valves inside your veins weaken, often as a result of hormonal changes combined with added pressure from your growing belly. While varicose veins can happen anywhere, most pregnant women experience these purplish, uncomfortable veins in their lower legs, ankles, or feet. Wearing prescription compression socks and elevating your feet as often as possible can help.
Varicose veins can also lead to hemorrhoids, which are swollen, painful veins in or near your anus. Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams often help, but you shouldn’t use these products without speaking to Dr. Morrison first to be sure it’s safe for you and your baby.
Pregnancy can be unpredictable in many ways, but knowing what you could possibly expect is important for staying happy, healthy, and comfortable. To learn more about the stages of pregnancy and how we can help you get the most from your experience, call 812-490-5200 or book an appointment online with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D., today.
