Going through pregnancy is a unique, and at times challenging, journey during which numerous physiological and psychological changes affect a woman’s body, all aimed at supporting the growth and development of the newly formed fetus- or fetuses, in case of multiple pregnancies. These changes are vital both for the mother body’s ability to keep up with the demands of this period, and for the baby’s intrauterine growth and development.

Understanding these transformations can help expectant mothers better cope with them. Below are some of the most common bodily changes that occur during pregnancy along with how they occur:

Cardiovascular Changes:  During pregnancy, the volume of blood that is circulating in the body increases exponentially compared to its pre-pregnancy levels. This change in volume is thought to be to support the growing needs of the developing fetus, and also in anticipation of the inevitable blood loss during childbirth. As a result of the increase in volume, the mother’s heart works harder to pump this increased volume, leading to a slight elevation in the mother-to-be’s heart rate.

Respiratory Changes:  As the uterus grows bigger to accommodate the growing baby, the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle of breathing, is pushed upwards into the chest leading to a slight increase in the work of breathing. There are also other effects on the respiratory system, with most changes occurring to accommodate the increased oxygen needs of the mother and the baby.

Endocrine Changes: Hormones play a big role in pregnancy, regulating various physiological processes to support gestation and fetal development. Various key hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), tend to surge to help maintain the pregnancy and prepare the mother’s body for the subsequent childbirth.

Gastrointestinal Changes:  Pregnancy affects all the body systems, and the digestive tract is no exception. Future mothers can experience alterations in appetite – some experience frequent episodes of morning nausea- digestion, and nutrient absorption. Many women may experience severe nausea, vomiting, and food aversions during the first trimester that can serve enough to warrant a hospital admission at times. As pregnancy progresses, some women also experience other GI-related symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and constipation.

Renal Changes: The kidneys undergo significant changes during pregnancy to keep up with the increased metabolic demands of the pregnant lady, as well as to help eliminate toxins and byproducts ts from the maternal and fetal circulations..

Musculoskeletal Changes: Pregnancy exerts increased strain on a woman’s musculoskeletal system. As the uterus grows, the inevitable weight gain might lead the mother to experience some postural changes, and at times also back pain, and pelvic instability as well.