Guide | Pregnancy Is Not Always Glamorous: 7 Common but Embarrassing Symptoms
Pregnancy changes more than your schedule and freedom; it may bring unexpected physical changes. Beyond a growing abdomen, fatigue, and occasional vomiting, several common but embarrassing symptoms deserve attention.
Obstetrician-gynecologist Michele M. Hakakha notes that abdominal hair, belching, constipation, increased discharge, and hemorrhoids are among the surprising changes that are rarely discussed. However embarrassing, reporting them to a doctor is important for safety.
1. Excess Gas
Hormonal changes slow gastrointestinal movement, causing more frequent gas that is harder to control. Hakakha recommends more exercise and fewer gas-producing foods, including carbonated drinks, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and dried fruit. People sensitive to lactose can choose lactose-free milk or other calcium sources.
2. Incontinence
As the growing uterus presses on the bladder, leaking a few drops of urine when coughing or sneezing is common. Stress urinary incontinence affects an estimated 18.6% to 60% of pregnant women and becomes more common as pregnancy progresses. Urinating every two hours and using liners later in pregnancy may help.
3. Facial Hair
Hormones may cause fine hair to appear on the face, abdomen, or breasts. Waxing or tweezing are the safest approaches. Avoid cosmetic procedures such as laser treatment, which may affect pigmentation or cause scarring.
4. Heightened Smell and Odors
A stronger sense of smell may increase sensitivity to food or body odors. Dr. Hoover explains that most people are simply more sensitive to smell rather than developing stronger body odor. Noticeable vaginal odor should be discussed promptly with a doctor to rule out infection.
5. Hemorrhoids
Increased blood volume and constipation can contribute to hemorrhoids, which affect up to 50% of pregnant women. Fiber, adequate fluids, and over-the-counter stool softeners may help. Witch-hazel pads and anti-inflammatory cream may ease symptoms.
6. Acne
Hormonal changes often worsen acne. Pregnant women should choose gentle topical products, such as those containing salicylic acid, phenoxyethanol, or amino-acid-based acids, and avoid retinoids such as Retin-A and tazarotene, which may cause fetal abnormalities.
7. Intimate Changes
Pregnancy may cause increased discharge or mild swelling of the labia. Dr. Kinney notes that these changes can be uncomfortable but are usually normal. A partner may attend prenatal appointments for information and support: "A doctor's explanation can help you accept these changes."
These symptoms may feel embarrassing, but they are common and understandable. Do not conceal discomfort out of embarrassment; timely communication with a qualified doctor can make pregnancy safer and more comfortable.
Guide | Pregnancy Is Not Always Glamorous: 7 Common but Embarrassing Symptoms
Guide | Pregnancy Is Not Always Glamorous: 7 Common but Embarrassing Symptoms
Pregnancy changes more than your schedule and freedom; it may bring unexpected physical changes. Beyond a growing abdomen, fatigue, and occasional vomiting, several common but embarrassing symptoms deserve attention.
Obstetrician-gynecologist Michele M. Hakakha notes that abdominal hair, belching, constipation, increased discharge, and hemorrhoids are among the surprising changes that are rarely discussed. However embarrassing, reporting them to a doctor is important for safety.
1. Excess Gas
Hormonal changes slow gastrointestinal movement, causing more frequent gas that is harder to control. Hakakha recommends more exercise and fewer gas-producing foods, including carbonated drinks, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and dried fruit. People sensitive to lactose can choose lactose-free milk or other calcium sources.
2. Incontinence
As the growing uterus presses on the bladder, leaking a few drops of urine when coughing or sneezing is common. Stress urinary incontinence affects an estimated 18.6% to 60% of pregnant women and becomes more common as pregnancy progresses. Urinating every two hours and using liners later in pregnancy may help.
3. Facial Hair
Hormones may cause fine hair to appear on the face, abdomen, or breasts. Waxing or tweezing are the safest approaches. Avoid cosmetic procedures such as laser treatment, which may affect pigmentation or cause scarring.
4. Heightened Smell and Odors
A stronger sense of smell may increase sensitivity to food or body odors. Dr. Hoover explains that most people are simply more sensitive to smell rather than developing stronger body odor. Noticeable vaginal odor should be discussed promptly with a doctor to rule out infection.
5. Hemorrhoids
Increased blood volume and constipation can contribute to hemorrhoids, which affect up to 50% of pregnant women. Fiber, adequate fluids, and over-the-counter stool softeners may help. Witch-hazel pads and anti-inflammatory cream may ease symptoms.
6. Acne
Hormonal changes often worsen acne. Pregnant women should choose gentle topical products, such as those containing salicylic acid, phenoxyethanol, or amino-acid-based acids, and avoid retinoids such as Retin-A and tazarotene, which may cause fetal abnormalities.
7. Intimate Changes
Pregnancy may cause increased discharge or mild swelling of the labia. Dr. Kinney notes that these changes can be uncomfortable but are usually normal. A partner may attend prenatal appointments for information and support: "A doctor's explanation can help you accept these changes."
These symptoms may feel embarrassing, but they are common and understandable. Do not conceal discomfort out of embarrassment; timely communication with a qualified doctor can make pregnancy safer and more comfortable.
Source:
Collected online