There’s no denying that pregnancy is a unique and life-changing experience for women. From the physical changes to the emotional rollercoaster, pregnancy can be overwhelming. However, some changes may come as a surprise to many.

In this article, we’ll go over the ten most unusual changes that come with pregnancy.

1. Metallic Taste in the Mouth

Many women report a metallic taste in their mouths during pregnancy, especially in the first few months. This can be frustrating and make it challenging to eat certain foods.

However, the good news is that this symptom usually improves after the first trimester.

2. Increased Sense of Smell

During pregnancy, women’s sense of smell is heightened. This can sometimes make certain smells unbearable, like perfumes or cooking foods.

However, it also means that women can pick up on smells that they may have missed before, like subtler scents that their partners emit.

3. Skin Changes

Pregnancy can cause radical changes to the skin. Some women may develop acne or dark patches on their skin, while others may experience a “glow.” Stretch marks are also common, and they can appear anywhere on the body.

Additionally, some women may notice that their skin becomes itchy or dry.

4. Hair Growth

Many women notice that their hair grows faster during pregnancy. This is due to the increased level of estrogen in the body, which can also cause some women to experience thicker, fuller hair.

However, some women may also notice that their hair becomes drier or more brittle.

5. Mood Swings

It’s common knowledge that pregnancy can cause mood swings. Women may find themselves feeling happy one moment and then weeping uncontrollably the next.

While this can be frustrating, it’s also entirely normal, and most women experience some level of moodiness during pregnancy.

6. Varicose Veins

Many women develop varicose veins during pregnancy, which are visible blue or purple veins that appear on the legs. This happens when the uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the body, causing blood to pool in the veins.

While not all women experience varicose veins during pregnancy, it’s a common occurrence.

7. Shortness of Breath

Pregnancy can cause shortness of breath in some women, especially as the fetus grows and puts more pressure on the diaphragm. This can be particularly noticeable when women are exercising or even just walking up a flight of stairs.

However, shortness of breath usually goes away after pregnancy.

8. Increased Saliva Production

Some women may experience an increase in saliva production during pregnancy, which can be bothersome. This is due to the higher levels of hormones in the body, which can cause an increase in saliva. However, this usually resolves after childbirth.

9. Gum Bleeding

Pregnancy can also cause gum bleeding in some women. This is due to the increased blood flow to the gums, which can make them more sensitive and prone to bleeding.

Good oral hygiene can help manage this, but it’s essential to speak to a dentist if bleeding becomes excessive or painful.

10. Changes in Vision

Pregnancy can cause changes in vision, including blurry vision or difficulty focusing. This happens because the eyes retain more fluid during pregnancy, which changes the shape of the cornea.

While most women notice a return to normal vision after pregnancy, speaking to an eye doctor is essential if vision changes are severe.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a time of significant change for women, and while some changes may be more unusual than others, it’s vital to remember that these changes are normal.

By understanding the different physical and emotional changes that come with pregnancy, women can be better prepared for their journey to motherhood.