Physiological and psychological changes during pregnancy. Body of a woman in early pregnancy

With the onset of pregnancy, a woman’s body begins to rebuild in a new way. Changes occur both physiologically and psychologically. All body systems are adjusted in the best way for the development of the fetus, as well as for the period of childbirth and feeding. During this period, all organs of the expectant mother experience significant stress and increase in size. This is why a woman’s chronic diseases can worsen during pregnancy. It's worth keeping this in mind. That is why it is advisable to immediately register with a antenatal clinic and carry out the necessary tests in order to keep your well-being, and, accordingly, the well-being of your unborn baby under control.

Changes in the cardiovascular system

When a woman becomes pregnant, she begins to represent a system: mother - placenta - blood. This is due to the fact that during pregnancy a woman develops a new organ – the placenta. The organs begin to experience serious stress due to the placenta. First of all, the heart is stressed.

The placental circulation appears.

The heart muscle literally increases in volume. Because of the placenta, the blood volume in the body increases by half.

It is due to changes in the functioning of the heart and the volume of a woman's circulating blood that pregnant women may suffer from varicose veins. Enlarged veins in the legs during pregnancy indicate that the uterus is putting significant pressure on the veins. Typically, this is a hereditary problem. If relatives suffered from varicose veins during pregnancy, then it is advisable for the expectant mother to follow these rules to avoid its occurrence:

• Monitor your weight during pregnancy to avoid sudden changes.
• Do not sit or lie for a long time, help blood circulation with movement.
• raise your legs more often while lying down so that the blood drains from the lower extremities
• wear elastic tights.
• eat foods rich in vitamin C

Lungs

The expectant mother needs more oxygen. Therefore, the respiratory system of a pregnant woman works twice as powerful. There is an elevation of the diaphragm by approximately 4 cm. But despite this, the volume of the lungs increases at the expense of the chest. In this case, the frequency of inhalation and exhalation does not change until late pregnancy. This is why shortness of breath during pregnancy can be alarming; if it occurs, you should consult a doctor.

Kidneys

Greater stress on the kidneys in the body of a pregnant woman is due to the fact that now The kidneys remove metabolic products from the body not only of the mother, but also of the baby. During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone is actively produced, which reduces the tone of the bladder, which can lead to stagnation of urine. This is why pregnant women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections, relapses of cystitis or pyelonephritis. To avoid these situations, it is important for pregnant women to drink a lot of clean water; you can also drink diuretic teas to prevent cystitis.

Changes in the digestive organs

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (toxicosis) are caused by nothing more than changes in the functioning of the digestive organs of the pregnant woman. A pregnant woman’s taste sensations also change.

Did you know that a woman’s sense of smell during pregnancy becomes 11 times stronger! This is how nature protects it from unwanted products.

An aversion to certain smells may appear, or there may be a very clear and distinct desire for a certain taste in the mouth. Pregnant women may experience constipation. This is due to placental hormones that affect intestinal tone. Heartburn in pregnancy is due to the fact that the pregnant uterus displaces the intestines and stomach, as a result of which some of the stomach contents can back up into the esophagus, thereby causing heartburn. The expectant mother can relieve herself of these unpleasant sensations by taking antacid medications(Rennie) and eating at least two hours before bedtime.

Changes in the reproductive system

The reproductive system undergoes the greatest changes during pregnancy. First of all, the uterus changes. The pregnant uterus is constantly enlarging.

By the end of pregnancy, the volume of the uterus increases approximately 500 times!

This occurs due to placental hormones, which help stretch muscle fibers. Irregular contractions of the uterus are noted, becoming more frequent towards the end of pregnancy. Thus, this organ prepares for childbirth. The entire uterus is entwined with blood vessels, and their number increases.

Depending on the timing of pregnancy, the position of the uterus also changes. In the third month, it extends beyond the pelvis, and in the last stages of pregnancy, the uterus reaches the hypochondrium. The correct position is ensured by ligaments, which during this period thicken and stretch. It is because of the tension of the ligaments that pregnant women may experience pain on the sides of the abdomen when they change body position.

The external organs of the reproductive system swell during pregnancy. There may even be slight varicose veins, this is due to the strong blood flow.

Mammary gland

With the onset of pregnancy, the mammary glands begin to prepare for lactation. This manifests itself in an increase in the amount of adipose tissue and the number of lobules in the breast. A pregnant woman's breasts enlarge and swell.

Psychological changes during pregnancy

Changes in a pregnant woman's hormonal levels also affect her psychological health. The emotional background of the expectant mother becomes unstable. A woman can become very upset and cry over a trifle. Sometimes there is causeless worry and anxiety. The mood can change several times per hour, from ecstatic joy to deep sadness. The sooner a woman realizes that this nervousness is associated with an “interesting situation,” the milder the mood swings will be. To subordinate your feelings to your mind, you need to understand their cause; various psychological techniques will also come to the rescue:

• develop your sense of humor. Make fun of yourself and the situation itself - this will help cope with negative emotions.
• don't push yourself. Accept your pregnancy and change your lifestyle to accommodate it. Understand that now you can no longer work as before and do a lot of things.
• If you are a rather patient person, you can try meditation or auto-training, this will also help you relax.
• don't hold back your emotions. If you want to cry, give free rein to your tears.
• Share your concerns with loved ones who can listen and support.
• Remember that these mood swings are temporary and that after childbirth your hormonal levels will stabilize.

Perhaps the most important thing is to treat yourself and your situation with love and understanding. Don’t demand too much from yourself, find the advantages of an “interesting position.”, dream about the future baby, prepare for his appearance. All this will help reduce negative emotions during pregnancy to a minimum. But it is clear that a pregnant woman cannot and should not be in a blissful state all the time. Accept all your emotions.

Did you know that the baby inside the mother can dance, cry and laugh? Listen to good music to cheer yourself and your baby up.

To better understand yourself and what happens to your body during pregnancy, read literature on this topic. When you understand why you experience certain sensations, half of your worries will go away. Be a competent expectant mother.

Video - changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy

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Hello dear women, in this article I will tell you about what happens to the body during pregnancy, what you can expect from your body over the next 9 months, we will discuss the heart and blood vessels, kidneys, blood pressure, stretch marks, dark spots on the face, hormones and restructuring psyche.

Read this article to the end and, having discovered some changes in yourself, you will at least you will remain calm, understanding what processes are currently going on inside you.

Hormones that change both the body and the psyche

From the very beginning of pregnancy, in the earliest stages, as soon as the egg attaches to the walls of the uterus, dramatic changes in the body occur - all systems are preparing for the formation of a new life.

New hormones begin to be actively produced - pregnancy hormones.

During pregnancy, the following hormones are most active:

• human chorionic gonadotropin ( may cause nausea)
• estrogen ()
• progesterone ( promotes the growth of mammary glands and uterus)
• thyroid-stimulating hormone ( stimulates the thyroid gland)
• hormone that stimulates melanocytes cells ( synthesizes skin pigment, or darkening of age spots on the skin).

Let's see how body systems change under the influence of hormones.

Blood volume increases by 45%

The cardiovascular system adapts to additional load. The volume of circulating blood increases by 35-45%. If on average a woman’s body contains 3500-4000 ml of blood, then by the end of pregnancy it is 5300-5550 ml of blood.

Physiological hypertrophy of the heart occurs. Cardiac hypertrophy is a natural way of adapting to increased stress. Why? Very simple - the third circle of blood circulation is formed– placental, separate for your baby.

Blood pressure decreases

In the first three months of pregnancy blood pressure decreases.

If before pregnancy you had slightly low blood pressure, less than 100/80 mmHg, then in the 1st trimester of pregnancy it may drop even more and you will constantly want to sleep. Feelings of weakness and slight dizziness may occur.

One of the pregnancy hormones is progesterone. has a direct effect on the walls of blood vessels, expanding them, thereby ensuring better blood circulation.In response to vasodilation, blood pressure decreases.

If your blood pressure is low, your doctor should prescribe medications to stabilize your blood pressure based on natural ingredients, such as ginseng tincture.

After 12 weeks of pregnancy, blood pressure should return to normal, become the same as before pregnancy, at a level of 120-140/70-90 mmHg.

If, on the contrary, you notice an increase in blood pressure, consult a doctor immediately, this may be a symptom of some complications.

Changes in the tone of the bladder and ureters

Changes in tone predispose to urinary stagnation. And bacteria really love any stagnation.

Therefore, a pregnant woman is at risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Another reason for the development of infection may be compression of the ureters by the pregnant uterus.

To avoid the development of any infections, you need to have your urine tested in the first months of pregnancy. bacteria in urine ().

Bacteriuria may not manifest itself at all - no symptoms! Only a urine culture can show whether you have hidden kidney disease or not.

If bacteriuria is treated in time, then in the future you can protect yourself from infections of the urinary system, in particular pyelonephritis.

Don’t listen to the wrong advice, “Why take antibiotics during pregnancy, it’s so harmful for the child, you need to drink herbal remedies and use folk remedies.”

I really respect traditional medicine, but here This is exactly the case when you can’t do without antibiotics. There is an infection in the kidneys that is lurking and waiting for an opportunity to shoot. And it will shoot very accurately - the development of pyelonephritis, which leads to serious complications, or even worse, to sepsis (blood poisoning). Therefore, in this case, prevention is the golden rule!

Slight swelling in the legs in the evening is normal

The next thing to monitor is the amount of urine.

The volume of urine depends on the volume of liquid drunk. A healthy pregnant woman produces an average of 1200-1600 ml of urine per day, with 950-1200 ml of urine excreted during the day, and the rest at night.

For a pregnant woman, “running” to the toilet at night is the norm, and “running” often is also the norm.

If in the last months of pregnancy small swelling in the legs is also normal! Under no circumstances should you reduce the volume of water.

If swelling appeared suddenly and is growing rapidly, this is an alarming syndrome– run to the doctor, or better yet, call him home!

The most important thing when edema appears is not to reduce the amount of fluid consumed, this can be very dangerous!

Change in taste preferences

At the beginning of pregnancy, many women's taste preferences change, various whims appear (craving for sour and salty foods), aversion to certain types of food (meat and fatty foods); appetite increases.

Nausea and vomiting may occur in the morning. This is a normal reaction to pregnancy-related changes in the body, but only if vomiting no more than 3-4 times a day and does not cause weight loss.

If vomiting causes a sharp deterioration in your health and you lose weight at the same time, this is a complication of pregnancy, which is called vomiting pregnancy. And here you need to immediately consult a doctor.

Doctors now have effective means to relieve the symptoms of this complication.

Decreased intestinal tone

Again under the influence of hormones intestinal tone decreases, food passes through the entire digestive tract more slowly than usual so that the body can absorb as many nutrients from the food as possible for the baby. And this is what often leads to constipation. You can get a list of safe laxatives during pregnancy.

Moreover, the intestines and stomach are pushed upward by the pregnant uterus and are compressed. Stomach contents can back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

For heartburn, I recommend Rennie. This is a mild product that does not contain aluminum. Take 1-2 tablets 1 hour after meals, repeat if necessary. No more than 11 tablets per day. Preferably do not take it for more than 2-3 days.

In fact, proper nutrition during pregnancy can significantly reduce all these inconveniences; I will give you a number of detailed recommendations on this topic.

Already now you can significantly improve your well-being by simply adding 200 ml to your diet daily.

Mammary glands prepare for feeding

The number of lobules and adipose tissue increases in them, and blood supply improves. The mammary glands increase in size, the nipples become hard, and the vascular network becomes clearly visible.

Colostrum is released - a thick yellowish liquid. Sometimes “stretch marks” may appear on the chest. No creams or medications should be used as they are not effective. Leave all activities for later - the period after feeding.

The uterus enlarges and its position changes

By the end of pregnancy, the weight of the uterus increases 500 times, and its volume increases 1000 times.

The blood supply to the external genital organs increases, and the amount of vaginal discharge increases significantly.

Starting from the 14th week, the uterus may begin to contract from time to time.. At first, the contractions are weak and irregular, and you may not even notice them. From the 30th week, contractions become frequent and strong; they are called “Braxton-Hicks contractions.” They do not at all mean an imminent birth, but they indicate that the baby’s due date is approaching.

The position of the uterus changes according to the stage of pregnancy.

• At 14 weeks, the belly begins to protrude and the uterus stretches above the junction of the pubic bones of the pelvis (at the level of the hips).
• By the 20th week, the upper part of the uterus reaches the level of the navel, it begins to put pressure on the lungs from below.
• By the 30th week, the uterus reaches the ribs, making breathing difficult.
• At the 34th week, the lumbar curve of the back increases, this is due to the heaviness of the uterus.

Body weight gain – 12 kg during pregnancy

Healthy woman at the end of pregnancy should gain an average of 12 kg with fluctuations from 8 to 18 kg, of which:

• fruit weight is 2800-3400 grams
• weight of the placenta with membranes (baby place) – 680 grams
• amniotic fluid volume – 900 grams
• per uterus - 1130 grams
• blood volume is 1600 grams
• breast weight – 900 grams
• fat tissue weight 4000 grams
• fluid in the lower extremities – 900-1300 grams
• extracellular fluid - 1000-1500 grams

That's arithmetic!

Dark spots may appear on the face

Some women develop brown spots on their face (called chloasma).

When exposed to sunlight, the color of these spots may become more intense, so be sure to apply sunscreen to your skin before going outside.

Do not try to remove them during pregnancy - it is a waste of time and money.

In addition, do not forget that spots can be camouflaged using fake tanning products or tanning powder, which will give the face a natural tanned appearance and make age spots invisible against dark skin.

In the first months after the birth of the baby they lighten and then disappear.

Hair growth will increase

Accelerated blood flow and an increase in the amount of nutrients also cause improved nutrition of skin cells. Improved skin nutrition can cause hypertrichosis - increased hair growth.

Hair may appear in places where it is completely unnecessary, for example, on the face in the lip area, on the chin, on the cheeks. Hair may also appear on the shoulders, legs, back and stomach.

Most of this hair disappears six months after birth, but some part may remain longer.

What to do in this case?

It is better not to use depilatory cream during pregnancy. Firstly, all the chemicals in the cream can be absorbed through small blood vessels, which is unfavorable for the child, and secondly, the skin may not perceive them, and the result will be zero.

It is also better to postpone electrolysis or waxing until after the baby is born, as this is a rather painful procedure that can provoke a risk of miscarriage.

I advise you to pull out hair on your face with tweezers (under no circumstances should you shave it off!), and on your legs and arms - shave with a razor. These are the safest methods.

New moles and papillomas may appear

New moles may appear on the skin, and existing moles may enlarge and darken. If you have a mole that began to change during pregnancy, be sure to consult your doctor.

If a mole grows quickly, it should be removed in the hospital. Pregnancy has no contraindications for such an operation.

In addition to moles, papillomas may appear, these are small formations on the skin. If you already have them, they can become more.

Don't worry about it. There are safe ways to remove them that do not require pain relief or hospitalization. They can be removed both during pregnancy and after it.

Stretch marks may appear on the skin

Stretch marks are areas of stretched skin that are reddish in color. Typically appear on the abdomen, chest, thighs or buttocks.

Despite popular belief, Not everyone gets stretch marks.! And it depends on individual characteristics and hormonal levels.

After childbirth, stretch marks turn white and become invisible, but they will never completely disappear. There is still no reliable way to get rid of stretch marks. Women tried various lotions, but often it all turned out to be useless.

You can make stretch marks less noticeable after childbirth if you connect a good program to strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve skin turgor.

Conclusion

Finally, I want to say one more thing - from the first day of life you are inextricably linked with the child, you feel fear and he receives fear hormones through the placenta, you feel joy - the body secretes the joy hormone, it is also transmitted to the child.

Scientists have established and recorded an amazing fact in the photographs: the child smiles almost synchronously with the mother or makes a “grimace of grief,” repeating her facial expressions (and therefore her state!). Therefore, you experience every scandal, all your tears together! Remember this and try not to get emotional.

Thank you for reading this long article to the end. I know it wasn't easy :)

But now you are armed with knowledge and you will no longer be caught by surprise! Well, don’t forget to subscribe to new articles, share with your friends if you liked the article. And thanks again for your attention!

From the first days of pregnancy, the expectant mother’s body undergoes intensive restructuring in accordance with the needs of the baby. Changes manifest themselves not only externally. The functioning of internal organs also undergoes significant changes.

The new condition manifests itself in the peculiarities of well-being, changes in taste preferences and emotional and psychological background. In order to understand what new things await a pregnant woman, we will look at the impact of pregnancy on the body.

External changes

Many women are convinced that pregnancy does not have the best effect on their appearance even in the early stages. Normally, if the expectant mother watches her diet, gets enough sleep and follows a daily routine, she remains just as attractive. However, it is impossible not to note what external changes are characteristic both for the gestation period itself and in the subsequent months after childbirth:

1. Increase in body weight. Normally, over 40 weeks of gestation, the body gains 9-12 kg. Indicators significantly exceeding these figures indicate errors in nutrition, late toxicosis, the presence of kidney pathology, and diabetes mellitus. Gaining a lot of weight can lead to fetal hypoxia and difficulties during childbirth. Read more about norms and deviations.
2. Enlargement of the mammary glands. Throughout pregnancy, the breasts “prepare” for future feeding, and shortly before birth, colostrum may be released from the mammary glands. After childbirth, the shape of the mammary glands usually changes, especially in those mothers who have been breastfeeding for a long time.
3. The appearance of stretch marks on the skin of the chest, abdomen, thighs. They can be triggered by a hereditary factor, rapid growth of the abdomen, changes in hormonal levels, a sedentary lifestyle, and weak muscles.
4. The appearance of age spots. Usually the spots are localized on the face, chest, abdomen and indicate malfunctions of the ovaries, liver, hormonal changes, and folic acid deficiency. Pigment spots are not dangerous to health, but can cause moral discomfort.
5. The appearance of edema. This sign is typical for the second half of pregnancy and is the first symptom.
6. Increased hair loss. This deficiency can occur due to a lack of certain vitamins and minerals, since the body has to work “for two”.

While external changes are quite obvious, less is known about internal changes.

Internal changes in the female body caused by pregnancy

Significant changes are observed in the cardiovascular, bone, digestive, immune and urinary systems, as well as the respiratory system. The most typical include:

1. Increase in circulating blood volume and heart rate.
2. Increased vascular tone.
3. Strengthening blood supply to the pelvic organs.
4. Raising of the diaphragm due to an enlarged uterus, causing increased breathing.
5. Changes in taste preferences and the appearance of toxicosis.
6. A shift in the center of gravity caused by weight gain and an increase in the size of the uterus.
7. Divergence of the pelvic bones as a stage of preparation for childbirth.
8. Increased activity of the pituitary gland, which is responsible for the functioning of the endocrine system.
9. Stimulation of the production of the hormone prolactin, which prepares the mammary glands for further feeding of the child.
10. The beginning of the functioning of the corpus luteum, which is responsible for maintaining pregnancy (after 4 months, these functions are taken over by the placenta).
11. Activation of the adrenal glands, thyroid and pancreas.
12. Intensive work of the kidneys and bladder.
13. Restructuring of the immune system, ensuring the preservation of pregnancy and normal development of the fetus.

The uterus undergoes significant changes. If at the beginning of gestation its dimensions are 7-8 cm and its weight does not exceed 50-100 g, then before birth the height of the organ increases to 35 cm and weight to 1 kg. There is also an expansion of blood vessels and an increase in the size of muscle fibers. After the baby is born, the uterus gradually returns to its normal size.

These and other changes can cause certain disturbances in the functioning of the body and, as a result, problems with well-being.

Many women report breathing problems, lack of fresh air and shortness of breath in the early stages. Intense blood supply to the pelvic organs can provoke the appearance of hemorrhoids, which are especially “activated” after childbirth (how to treat and methods of preventing pathology). In the early stages, a decrease in blood pressure is usually noted, and in the second half of pregnancy, some pregnant women remain at risk of increased blood pressure as one of the first signs of gestosis.

Intensive kidney work manifests itself in increased urination, as well as the risk of protein in the urine or exacerbation of pyelonephritis and other inflammatory processes caused by infection in the urinary tract.

Decreased muscle fiber tone and increased venous pressure are often the cause. In some cases, the disease can progress, causing damage to the external genitalia and pelvic organs.

To form all systems of a child’s body, the fetus requires a considerable amount of vitamins and useful minerals. The female body does not always cope with increased demands. Deficiency of calcium and other essential substances negatively affects the condition of teeth and nails.

Too frequent childbirth, early pregnancy (before 16 years), and the interval between births by cesarean section of less than two years can have a negative impact on health.

Changes that occur in the early stages

The first signs of pregnancy can appear as early as 2-3 weeks after conception. Most expectant mothers experience certain inconveniences or health problems.

• Lack of menstruation

This is the main change that makes one suspect pregnancy. But even with a regular cycle, not every delay indicates that conception has occurred. The reason for the absence of menstruation can be various diseases, heavy physical or mental stress, sudden weight loss, surgical intervention (more details in the article “”). Also, some pregnant women may experience scanty discharge that resembles menstruation.

• Breast swelling

Preparation of the mammary glands for future feeding begins in the first weeks of gestation. A woman may experience tingling in the nipple area, hardness in the breasts, as well as a feeling of discomfort and slight pain in the abdomen. Severe cramping pain may indicate an incipient miscarriage.

• General weakness

The hormonal changes that the entire body undergoes provoke constant weakness, drowsiness, and increased fatigue. The expectant mother's performance decreases sharply, and pain and heaviness may occur in the legs, back and lower back.

• Emotional instability

Changes in hormonal levels lead to imbalance. The expectant mother experiences increased anxiety for her health and the condition of the baby. She often becomes overly capricious, whiny, suspicious, and overly susceptible to various troubles. Sharp changes in emotional state are also characteristic, when an elevated cheerful mood can instantly give way to apathy and anxiety and vice versa.

• Nausea and vomiting

These signs are considered to be the main symptoms of early toxicosis. Most often, nausea is not associated with food intake and worsens in the morning. Intolerance to certain odors appears. A pregnant woman may experience a dislike for certain foods or a strong desire to eat foods that she was previously indifferent to.

Usually go away by the fourth month. Rarely, they can persist throughout the entire gestation period.

There may be an unhealthy interest in inedible food (chalk, earth, clay). Such changes signal that the body lacks certain nutrients. Thus, the desire to eat chalk indicates low hemoglobin.

• Increased vaginal discharge

Discharge of a transparent color and mucous structure is normal. Their task is to protect the fetus from possible infections that can penetrate from the mother’s body through the uterine cavity.

Features of changes during different periods of pregnancy

During different trimesters of pregnancy, a woman's health status can change significantly. Let's look at what changes occur week by week.

• 1 – 4

The formation of the main systems and organs of the fetus occurs, the placenta and amniotic fluid begin to form. The expectant mother may experience the first early signs, including increased drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and nagging pain in the lower abdomen. The structure of the cervix changes.

• 5 – 8

During this period, the future baby’s heart is formed, and the first heartbeat can be recorded. Arms and legs begin to develop, and ultrasound can already distinguish between the stomach and back. The fruit size is 6-10 mm. The cerebral hemispheres grow, the intestines and pancreas develop. The pregnant woman may experience further signs of toxicosis, and weight gain may also occur.

• 9 – 10

The fetus's arms and legs lengthen, and there is an active change in body position. The end of the 10th week marks the end of the embryonic period. The length of the fetus is about 3-4 cm. During this period, we can already talk about the weight of the child, which is approximately 5 g.

• 11 – 12

Most women note a gradual decrease in signs of early toxicosis. The enlarged uterus occupies the entire pelvic area and is easily palpable above the joint of the pubic bone.

• 13 – 15

At this stage, it is already possible to determine the gender of the unborn baby. There is a need to switch to loose-fitting clothes that do not squeeze the stomach. The fruit is about 10 cm long and weighs about 50 g.

• 16 – 18

Multiparous women are already beginning to feel the first movements of the fetus. The enlarged uterus rises towards the abdomen, reaching the liver. During this period, minor pain in the side may be felt. Pain in the back also occurs due to a shift in the center of gravity and increased stress on the sacral muscles.

At 16-18 weeks of pregnancy you can already hear the first movements of the fetus

• 19 – 20

Primiparas also begin to feel fetal movements. Starting from the 20th week of pregnancy, the body gains weight more rapidly.

• 21 – 23

The belly is already quite noticeable, but it is not yet so large as to restrict movement and cause inconvenience. Sometimes the middle of pregnancy is called the most comfortable period, since the general condition improves. However, some pregnant women experience the first appearance of edema and changes in blood pressure, which can later develop into late toxicosis.

• 24 – 26

The distance from the uterus to the pubis is approximately 25 cm. The length of the fetus is 20-22 cm, and the weight is about 700 g. Increased pressure from the uterus on the internal organs can cause constipation. Strict adherence to the diet prevents the development of constipation.

• 27 – 30

The weight gain at this stage should be about 8 kg. The weight of the fetus is usually about 1 kg; a child born at this stage, despite extreme prematurity, can survive. A pregnant woman often has a problem with iron deficiency and. In this case, iron-containing drugs are prescribed and nutritional adjustments are made.

• 31 – 33

The abdomen is significantly increased in size. Some movements (bending, sudden or rapid changes in body position) and physical activity become difficult. The baby moves energetically, taking the necessary position before birth.

• 34 – 36

The closer to the day of the expected birth, the more the woman’s anxiety about its outcome increases. Such emotional instability is most typical during the first pregnancy. The baby's movements become less active because he no longer has enough space in the uterus. His height at this stage is about 45 cm, and his weight is about 2 kg.

• 36 – 40

Towards the end of gestation, the abdomen droops and it becomes easier to breathe. A few days before the expected date, the body is actively preparing for childbirth. Mild cramping pains appear, which are called precursors. The baby's organs and systems are fully formed, and he is ready for life outside the womb.

Age after 35 years

The best age to become a mother is considered to be between 20 and 35 years old. The success rate of conception is 86%, and the risk of miscarriage is only 10%. After age 35, fertility begins to decline. This is due to decreased egg viability. However, modern women are increasingly postponing the birth of children to a later date, striving to achieve success in their careers.

Despite the fact that pregnancy after 35 years is considered late, if you follow all the recommendations of doctors, the chances of giving birth to a healthy child are very high. However, it should be noted that there are increased risks for maternal health and fetal development that must be taken into account when managing pregnancy:

1. Chromosomal pathologies of the fetus. Women in adulthood have a significantly higher risk of having a child with chromosomal abnormalities, in particular Down syndrome.
2. . Its causes are usually associated with genetic pathologies and malfunctions in the chromosomal complement of the fetus, as well as with exacerbation of chronic diseases of the mother. Usually a miscarriage occurs before the 13th week, but later periods are also possible (20-22 weeks). The risk of miscarriage increases if you have a history of miscarriages or multiple abortions. It should be noted that there is a higher risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy.
3. . Its risk increases if you are over 40 years old. This creates additional stress on the mother's body.
4. Pathological birth. Women over 35-40 years of age are more likely to experience premature birth or the birth of a child with underweight or other signs of immaturity. The risk of premature placental abruption, hypoxia or asphyxia of the fetus, and weakness of labor increases. Children born as a result of pathological births have a high risk of developing neurological and psychological problems and delayed speech development.
5. Late toxicosis of pregnant women. It is characterized by such symptoms of gestosis as the appearance of edema and protein in the urine, surges in blood pressure, and excess weight gain. At the same time, the risk of premature birth, stillbirth, and intrauterine fetal hypoxia is high.

Women over 35 years of age who have decided to have a child should take into account the listed risks and be attentive to their health. A prerequisite is early registration (up to 12 weeks) and completion of all tests prescribed by the doctor.

For early diagnosis of possible fetal pathologies, it is indicated. It allows you to identify genetic mutations no later than 11-13 weeks of gestation.

Positive effects of pregnancy

Doctors say that bearing a child and subsequent childbirth can have a healing effect for certain diseases, namely:

• mastopathy (benign changes in the mammary gland) - increased production of progesterone prevents further growth of tumors;
• endometriosis – changes in hormonal balance can lead to the complete elimination of this pathology;
• migraine attacks - a decrease in estrogen leads to the elimination of headaches;
• ovarian dysfunction – pregnancy has a positive effect on the normalization of the menstrual cycle and the functioning of these organs;

Pregnancy and breastfeeding serve as an excellent prevention of the development of malignant neoplasms in the organs of the reproductive system and mammary glands.

The birth of a child in adulthood has a positive impact on the psychological state.

How to avoid negative phenomena

Ideas about the period of bearing a child, even in the 21st century, are associated with many myths and prejudices. There is still a very tenacious belief that all women must suffer from toxicosis or that they must all certainly experience problems with tooth loss.

In fact, pregnancy can proceed without problems and poor health if future parents treat the planning process with full responsibility. For this it is recommended:

1. Get examined by all doctors and treat chronic diseases.
2. Visit a geneticist.
3. Review your diet, regularly include dairy and seafood, vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts in the menu, exclude fast food, fatty and spicy foods.
4. Stop smoking and frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages.
5. Lead an active lifestyle, practice moderate physical activity and regular sports, and visit the gym.
6. Ensure proper sleep at least 8 hours a day, eliminate emotional distress and minimize stressful situations.
7. Take vitamins and folic acid (read about the need to take it when planning pregnancy).

Pregnancy is a wonderful condition in which a woman feels omnipotent and powerful. During pregnancy, a woman’s body is able to protect a tiny creature whose heart beats in her stomach. And, in addition, her body is undergoing serious physiological changes. This is how a woman prepares to become a mother after nine difficult and interesting months.

What changes does a woman experience during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a completely normal process for any living female body. But at the same time, like any process, it causes changes. The significant physiological changes that the expectant mother’s body experiences are simply a process that ensures the correct and healthy development of the fetus.

The stress on a woman’s body during pregnancy increases significantly, which provokes an exacerbation of chronic diseases and the appearance of various complications in the form of allergies or hypersensitivity. To avoid difficult situations and ensure the normal course of pregnancy, a timely visit to the antenatal clinic and passing all the necessary tests will allow you to take adequate preventive measures and responsibly prepare for childbirth.

What changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy need to be paid attention to?

So which organs are under the most stress?

The cardiovascular system receives additional load in the form of the placental circulation. It is advisable to hospitalize women with heart disease in recent weeks.

Blood pressure in healthy women during pregnancy increases only with late toxicosis - a reason to seek help.

The normal respiratory rate is 16-18 times per minute, shortness of breath or other breathing disorders - be sure to consult a doctor.

The genitourinary system is under significant stress, the norm for urine output is considered to be 1200-1600 ml of urine, there is a risk of infection entering the urinary tract.

The digestive system during pregnancy changes significantly in the first three months: taste preferences change, nausea and vomiting appear as signs of early toxicosis, prolapse and shift of the stomach and intestines.

The joints in the hip area become especially mobile to facilitate the passage of the fetus, but “duck gait” and pain in the pubic area are signals to consult a doctor.

During pregnancy, the mammary glands prepare for future feeding - they increase in size, increase sensitivity, and the nipples become coarser.

The uterus is an organ that during pregnancy undergoes the greatest changes among the genital organs: an increase in volume, improved blood supply, the appearance of “training contractions” from the 30th week of pregnancy, by the beginning of labor it reaches the hypochondrium, which can cause pain on the sides of the abdomen due to tension ligaments that hold the uterus in the correct position.

The main metamorphoses in a woman’s body during pregnancy

A woman’s body undergoes restructuring during pregnancy due to the great flexibility and adaptability of all organs.

Breast changes during pregnancy

Even in the first stage of pregnancy, the mammary glands increase in volume, the milky-brown color of the nipples acquires darkish shades. A woman may even notice a subcutaneous network of small capillaries on her breasts. Progesterone increases the sensitivity of the mammary glands. Pregnant women claim that during this period you can feel a slight tingling sensation in the upper body.

Changes in the respiratory system during pregnancy

It becomes more and more difficult for a woman carrying a child under her heart to breathe every month due to the fact that the fetus increases and compresses all the internal organs in the female body. In medicine, a disorder of the respiratory processes is called dyspnea, in the people - shortness of breath. To make it easier for a pregnant woman to endure pregnancy, doctors advise sitting or lying as straight as possible, and placing a pillow under the upper body while sleeping.

Changes in a woman's skin during pregnancy

Changes will also affect the skin of the postpartum mother due to a sharp increase in hormonal levels. Skin pigmentation is possible. If a woman does not begin to take care of herself already at the beginning of the development of the embryo in the womb, then childbirth can present her with a surprise in the form of stretch marks on the abdomen.

Changes in body weight during pregnancy

There is no doubt that one of the most noticeable changes that occurs in a pregnant woman is a change in body weight. By the end of pregnancy, a woman's weight increases by about 10-12 kg. This value is distributed as follows:

• fetus,
• placenta,
• membranes and amniotic fluid – approximately 4.0 – 4.5 kg,
• uterus and mammary glands –1.0 kg,
• blood – 1.5 kg,
• intercellular (tissue) fluid – 1 kg,
• increase in maternal body fat mass – 4 kg.

It is obvious that such an increase in the weight of the woman herself during pregnancy, as well as the process of development and growth of the fetal body, places increased demands on the body for the nutrition of the pregnant woman. Along with adequate consumption of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, it is usually recommended to supplement a woman’s diet with iron supplements (necessary for the synthesis of red blood cells of the mother and fetus), vitamins and calcium supplements (construction of the fetal bone skeleton).

The question often arises: what weight gain during pregnancy should be considered normal and what is excessive? It all depends on the woman’s initial weight before pregnancy. And not so much from weight, but from the ratio of weight and height, expressed by the so-called body mass index (BMI). BMI is calculated using the formula: BMI = Weight (kg)/Height2(m2) So, for example, for a woman weighing 60 kg and height 1.6 m, this index will be 60/ 1.62 = 23.4 kg/m2. Women with an index from 20.0 to 26.0 are considered proportionally built. If the index exceeds 26.0, then these are women with signs of obesity, and if the BMI is less than 20.0, then the woman has a nutritional deficiency.

Weight gain affects about half of women who have given birth to children. The number of kilograms gained can vary from 10 to 16. These are purely individual indicators for each mother. However, to avoid weight gain, it is worth monitoring your food intake and making sure that the pounds are gained gradually and not in spurts during pregnancy.

Changes in the cardiovascular system during pregnancy

Let's take a look at what the cardiovascular system of pregnant women is like. During pregnancy, this system and its individual organs are subject to a double burden of ensuring normal hemodynamics and excreting metabolic products from the body not only of the mother, but also of the fetus.

Since a woman’s weight increases gradually during pregnancy (due to additional deposition of adipose tissue in the woman herself, fetal growth, increased weight of the uterus and uteroplacental blood flow), this allows all organs and systems to adapt to the increasing load during the normal course of pregnancy.

The process of hemodynamic adaptation in the body of a pregnant woman is ensured by the presence of hypervolemia, which is one of the main mechanisms that maintain normal microcirculation in the placenta and vital organs of the mother. The process of increasing the volume of circulating blood in the cardiovascular system of pregnant women begins already in the first trimester of pregnancy, reaching its maximum value by the 29th–36th week. This process is carried out mainly due to an increase in blood plasma.

Blood pressure changes during pregnancy

As for blood pressure, normally in the second trimester of pregnancy it decreases by 5–15 mmHg. Art. Subsequently, towards the end of pregnancy, it rises again to normal levels for an individual woman. The process of maintaining a normal blood pressure level can be represented by four factors:

decrease in total peripheral vascular resistance;

decreased blood viscosity;

increase in BCC;

increase in cardiac output.

The first two factors contribute to a decrease in blood pressure, while the last two factors increase it. The mutual coexistence of these factors maintains blood pressure at a certain level throughout pregnancy. The next point concerns minor physiological tachycardia in pregnant women. Thus, in the third trimester, the heart rate (HR) is 15–20 beats/min higher than the heart rate outside pregnancy. There is also an increase in venous pressure by 8 cm of water. Art. It should be noted, however, that in the veins of the upper extremities the pressure does not change at all, while in the lower extremities it increases.

Compression of the inferior vena cava during pregnancy in a woman

Another unpleasant moment during pregnancy is compression of the inferior vena cava by the uterus, which causes a lot of discomfort to the woman. In severe cases, such deterioration of the venous outflow passing through the lumbar and paravertebral veins leads to a decrease in cardiac output and causes collapse.

As for minute volume, during pregnancy, by the 26th–32nd week of pregnancy, its value increases by an average of 32%. Some decrease nevertheless occurs towards the end of pregnancy and by childbirth it increases slightly relative to this value.

Heart murmurs during pregnancy in a woman

The next discomfort to the cardiovascular system is caused by limited mobility of the diaphragm and some change in the position of the heart due to the high position of the uterine fundus. In this regard, in half of healthy pregnant women, a systolic murmur is heard at the apex of the heart and in 10% of the pulmonary artery, the intensity of which increases after exercise.

And the last thing to note: the greatest activity of the cardiovascular system is observed during childbirth. At the time of contractions, the stroke volume of the heart increases by 30% (300–500 ml), and cardiac output and pulse pressure by 25%. Venous return at the time of pushing increases by 400–800 ml.

What changes in the kidneys does the woman experience?

As for the excretory system of a pregnant woman, it should be noted that there are specific changes in kidney function. When examining the kidneys, a significant expansion of the renal pelvis was revealed (the volume of the pelvis increases from 5–10 ml to 50 and even 100 ml), as well as the ureters, which also lengthen to 20–30 cm. Such a ureter does not fit in its bed and bends like a loop.

An inflection can most often be noted in the area of ​​​​the transition of the upper third of the ureter to the middle. One can also note a violation of the tone and contractility of the muscles of the small calyces, pelvis and ureters. In connection with all these changes, significant changes occur in the walls of the ureters - they hypertrophy, hyperplasia of the muscular and connective membranes occurs, and the vascularization of the ureteral wall increases. Direct division of the urinary tract begins from the 5th–6th week and reaches a maximum at 32 weeks of pregnancy and childbirth.

Changes in the excretory system in a woman’s body during pregnancy

An important fact is the change in blood supply to the renal apparatus. In the first trimester of pregnancy, for example, renal blood flow increases by 30–50%, and subsequently it gradually decreases.

Glomerular filtration, like renal blood flow, increases by 30–50% in the first trimester of pregnancy, and then decreases again:

• in non-pregnant women it is 105 ml/min,
• in the second trimester – 115 ml/min,
• in the third trimester – 110 ml/min,
• and immediately three weeks before birth – 135 ml/min.

Tubular reabsorption (98–99 ml/min) remains without visible changes in a pregnant woman, as well as the amount of electrolyte excretion.

Structural and functional changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy

These changes are aimed at achieving the following main goals:

• ensuring adequate supply of the growing fetal body with oxygen, nutrients and evacuation of waste products from the fetal body;
• preparing the mother's body for the process of childbirth and breastfeeding.

Since these goals are normal physiological tasks of the human reproduction process, changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy should be considered as natural and physiological. On the other hand, since all systems of a woman’s body work in a more intense mode during this period, recently a point of view has emerged that considers pregnancy as a kind of “strength test” of the mother’s body. According to this concept, pregnancy reveals “weak links” in a woman’s body, which can lead to the development of pregnancy pathologies.

The changes that occur in the body during pregnancy are physiological and chemical in nature.

What physiological changes does a woman experience during pregnancy?

Physiological changes include expansion of some organs and contraction of others, changes in the load on the musculoskeletal system, and chemical changes include changes in the composition of solutions and body fluids.

The correct attitude towards pregnancy and personal hygiene is the key to a smooth pregnancy, normal childbirth and the birth of a healthy and strong baby. Pregnancy is not a reason to give up your usual and stable regimen if it does not harm the body of the mother and the unborn child. Physical activity on the body during pregnancy is necessary, but within the normal norm that was before pregnancy. Physical activity should be compensated by sufficient rest; it is important not to overwork or overexert yourself.

Chemical changes during pregnancy in a woman

In addition to physical changes, the body also experiences changes in its chemical composition during pregnancy, which requires very careful behavior with medications. During pregnancy, it is not advisable to take any medications, but this rule does not apply to chronic diseases. Since during restructuring the body is subject to stress and chronic diseases tend to worsen. The sensitivity of the body during pregnancy increases significantly, which can cause allergies. In this case, you must consult your doctor and strictly adhere to the prescription and dosage of the medicine. And carefully read the annotations for the drug: the Moldovan translation and production in Bulgaria are reasons to doubt the quality of the drug.

The issue of the effects of drugs is especially relevant in the early stages of pregnancy, since it is during this period that organs and systems are formed in the fetus, and synthetic substances place such a burden on the future body of the fetus, which it is simply not yet able to cope with. And the mother’s body also cannot provide full protection, since it itself is being rebuilt. In case of minor discomfort, you can turn to traditional medicine, provided that you were not allergic to them before pregnancy, and they are not substances that have an increased ability to cause allergies.

During pregnancy, other physical changes can be observed in the female body, in particular

• copious vaginal discharge,
• brittleness of nail plates,
• change in taste sensations,
• increased fatigue,
• moral discomfort,
• frequent mood swings.

During pregnancy, significant physiological changes occur in a woman’s body, which ensure the proper development of the fetus and prepare the body for the upcoming birth and feeding. During this difficult period, the load on all organs and systems of a woman’s body increases significantly, which can lead to exacerbation of chronic diseases and the development of complications. That is why you should register with the antenatal clinic as early as possible, go through all the necessary specialists and get tested. This will allow you to take adequate preventive measures and prepare for childbirth.

Heart during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the cardiovascular system performs more intense work, as an additional placental circulation appears in the body. Here the blood flow is so great that 500 ml of blood passes through the placenta every minute. The heart of a healthy woman during pregnancy easily adapts to additional loads: the mass of the heart muscle and cardiac blood output increase. To meet the growing needs of the fetus for nutrients, oxygen and building materials, the blood volume in the mother’s body begins to increase, reaching a maximum by the 7th month of pregnancy. Instead of 4000 ml of blood, 5300-5500 ml now circulates in the body. In pregnant women with heart disease, this load can cause complications; that is why, at 27-28 weeks, they are recommended to be hospitalized in specialized maternity hospitals.

Changes in blood pressure during pregnancy

Blood pressure remains virtually unchanged during a normal pregnancy. On the contrary, in women who have an increase in it before or in the early stages of pregnancy, in the middle of pregnancy it usually stabilizes and is in the range of 100/60-130/85 mmHg. This is due to a decrease in the tone of peripheral blood vessels under the influence of the hormone progesterone.

However, in the last trimester of pregnancy, blood pressure can increase, reaching very high values. High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg and above) is one of the signs of late toxicosis in pregnancy. This condition is very dangerous and may require emergency delivery.

Lungs during pregnancy

Due to the increase in the woman's body's need for oxygen, lung activity increases during pregnancy. Despite the fact that as pregnancy progresses, the diaphragm rises upward and limits the respiratory movements of the lungs, their capacity increases. This occurs due to the expansion of the chest, as well as due to the expansion of the bronchi. Increasing the volume of inhaled air during pregnancy makes it easier for the fetus to remove used oxygen through the placenta. The respiratory rate does not change, remaining 16-18 times per minute, increasing slightly towards the end of pregnancy. Therefore, if shortness of breath or other breathing problems occurs, a pregnant woman should definitely consult a doctor.

Kidneys during pregnancy

The kidneys function under great strain during pregnancy, as they remove metabolic products from the body of the pregnant woman and her growing fetus. The amount of urine produced fluctuates depending on the amount of fluid you drink. A healthy pregnant woman excretes an average of 1200-1600 ml of urine per day, with 950-1200 ml of urine excreted during the day, and the rest at night.

Under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the tone of the bladder decreases, which can lead to stagnation of urine. Under these conditions, the introduction of infection into the urinary tract is facilitated, so pregnant women often experience exacerbation of pyelonephritis. A urinary tract infection is indicated by the appearance of leukocytes in urine tests - more than 10-12 per field of view.

In addition, the pregnant uterus, turning slightly to the right, can cause difficulty in the outflow of urine from the right kidney. In this case, the risk of hydronephrosis increases, that is, expansion of the pelvis and calyces due to excessive accumulation of urine in them.

Changes in the digestive organs

In the first 3 months of pregnancy, many women experience changes in the digestive organs: nausea and often vomiting in the morning (signs of early toxicosis), taste sensations change, and a craving for unusual substances (clay, chalk) appears. As a rule, these phenomena disappear by 3-4 months of pregnancy, sometimes at a later date. Under the influence of placental hormones, intestinal tone decreases, which often leads to constipation. The intestines are pushed upward by the pregnant uterus, the stomach is also shifted upward and compressed, and some of its contents can be thrown into the esophagus and cause heartburn (especially in the second half of pregnancy). In such cases, it is recommended to take antacid medications (for example, Maalox, Rennie), eat food 2 hours before bedtime, and lie in bed with the head end elevated.

Liver during pregnancy works with greater load, as it neutralizes the metabolic products of the woman and the fetus.

Joints during pregnancy

During pregnancy, women experience some joint laxity. The joints of the pelvis become especially mobile, which facilitates the passage of the fetus through it during childbirth. Sometimes the softening of the pelvic joints is so pronounced that a slight divergence of the pubic bones is observed. Then the pregnant woman experiences pain in the pubic area and a “duck” gait. You should inform your doctor about this and receive appropriate recommendations.

Changes in the mammary glands during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the mammary glands prepare for the upcoming feeding. The number of lobules and adipose tissue increases in them, and blood supply improves. The mammary glands increase in size, the nipples become hard.

Changes in the genital organs during pregnancy

Largest changes during pregnancy occur in the genitals and concern mainly the uterus. The pregnant uterus constantly increases in size, by the end of pregnancy its height reaches 35 cm instead of 7-8 cm outside pregnancy, the weight increases to 1000-1200 g (without a fetus) instead of 50-100 g. The volume of the uterine cavity by the end of pregnancy increases by approximately 500 once. A change in the size of the uterus occurs due to an increase in the size of muscle fibers under the influence of placental hormones. The blood vessels expand, their number increases, they seem to entwine the uterus. Irregular contractions of the uterus are observed, which become more active towards the end of pregnancy and are felt as “squeezing”. These so-called Braxton Hicks contractions, which normally occur from the 30th week of pregnancy, are considered as training for real labor contractions.

The position of the uterus changes according to its size. By the end of the 3rd month of pregnancy, it extends beyond the pelvis, and closer to childbirth it reaches the hypochondrium. The uterus is held in position by ligaments, which thicken and stretch during pregnancy. Pain that occurs on the sides of the abdomen, especially when changing body position, is often caused by tension in the ligaments. The blood supply to the external genitalia increases, and varicose veins may appear in the vagina and labia (the same varicose veins can also appear on the lower extremities and in the rectum).

Weight gain during pregnancy

Fetal growth and physiological changes in the pregnant woman's body affect her body weight. In a healthy woman, by the end of pregnancy, body weight increases by an average of 12 kg with fluctuations from 8 to 18 kg. Usually in the first half of pregnancy it increases by 4 kg, in the second half - 2 times more. Weekly weight gain up to 20 weeks is approximately 300 + 30 g, from 21 to 30 weeks - 330 + 40 g and after 30 weeks before birth - 340 + 30 g. In women with underweight before pregnancy, weekly weight gain may be even greater more.

Psychology of women

In addition to physiological changes in the body, a pregnant woman’s mental state changes.

A woman’s attitude towards pregnancy and childbirth is influenced by various factors, including social, moral, ethical, economic, etc., as well as the personality characteristics of the pregnant woman herself.

In the first half of pregnancy, most women are more concerned about their own health; in the second half, especially after the appearance of fetal movements, all the thoughts and concerns of the expectant mother are aimed at the well-being of the fetus. A woman can address her child with affectionate words, she fantasizes, endowing him with individual characteristics. Along with this, many women deliberately give up some attachments and habits for the sake of upcoming motherhood.

Pregnant women may also experience various concerns and fears. During this period, a woman may be concerned about changes in appearance, loss of attractiveness, and relationships with her husband. Close relatives (especially the husband) should become a reliable support for the pregnant woman and try to provide the woman with psychological comfort. If a pregnant woman experiences severe anxiety or depression, it is recommended to seek advice from a specialist.