Pregnancy Physiological Changes and their Symptoms

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I. Increase in size of uterus: typical weight gain of 30+ pounds  Increase in fatigue  Pressure on internal abdominal organs  Aching of legs and feet  Pulling on lower back muscles causing backaches

II. Fetal head on bladder  Constant bladder pressure  Frequent urination  Urine leaking

III. Crowding of small intestines and stomach, combined with hormonal changes  Fullness and discomfort after eating small amounts  Heartburn  Constipation  Gas

IV. Displacement of heart and upward pressure on the fetus on the diaphragm and lungs  Difficult and shallow breathing  Reduced oxygen resulting in fatigue  Increase in body temperature

V. Change in center of gravity, along with changes in spinal alignment, resulting in pelvic tilt:  Frequent backaches  Overall posture change  “waddling” gait

VI. Pressure points of fetal knees, elbows and feet  Aches and pains in ribs and abdominal organs

VII. Fetal movement  Strange sensations of stroking and kicking against abdominal wall and outer belly

VIII. Breast enlargement and protruding profile  Change in self image  Change in sexuality  Awkwardness in movement and normal activities