Although pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in your life, it can also be filled with some of the most awkward times as well. For instance, expected physical changes include weight gain, nausea, and increased fatigue. However, it is important to keep in mind that although these changes can be rather trying at times, they are all normal.
1. Hemorrhoids
An extremely common experience during pregnancy, hemorrhoids are inflamed blood vessels that develop around the anus and rectum. The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching and burning. It is also common for hemorrhoids to bleed, resulting in blood on your toilet paper or in your stool.
Hemorrhoids are often the result of the extra weight the baby puts on the veins in your groin. However, chronic constipation during pregnancy is also a big contributor. Straining during a bowel movement, for instance, due to chronic constipation will almost always lead to hemorrhoids. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help decrease the likelihood that you will develop hemorrhoids.
One of the easiest things you can do is to remain hydrated. You can do this by simply sipping water throughout the day. Increasing your fiber intake via fiber-rich foods is another great way to help reduce your risk. However, you should consult your doctor before incorporating supplementary fiber or stool softeners into your daily routine.
If you do develop hemorrhoids, you should make sure to keep the area dry and clean. Additionally, as with most everything else during pregnancy, you should be sure to consult your doctor before using anti-inflammatory creams or witch hazel to soothe the itching and swelling.
2. Excess hair
As you know, your hormones run rampant during pregnancy. Unfortunately, one result of all those hormones is an increase in unwanted hair. In fact, you may experience hair growing on your abdomen, face, and breasts. Although this can be rather embarrassing, it is not permanent. Additionally, you can safely remove the unwanted hair with tweezers. If you choose to use a wax, be sure to consult your doctor beforehand.
3. Nipple leak
Prolactin is the hormone responsible for preparing your breasts for nursing, and you will produce lots of this hormone when you are pregnant. In fact, towards the end of your pregnancy, you may experience fluid leaking from your nipples when they are stimulated. Pretty much any type of stimulation may result in your nipples secreting fluid, including changing your clothes or showering.
Although there is nothing you can do to prevent it, you can place nursing pads inside your bra to help absorb the fluid. However, it is important to note that if the fluid is foul-smelling or bloody you should consult your doctor. Bloody discharge, for instance, can be the result of an infection. It can also result from intraductal papilloma, a benign tumor that can form in the milk duct of your breast. Additionally, though rare, bloody discharge from your nipple can be an early sign of breast cancer.
