There seems to be a relatively unending series of surprises related to first-time pregnancy and childbirth. Just about everyone knows that pregnancy means more trips to the bathroom, nausea, and an increasing waistline. However, some of the trickier side effects of pregnancy seem to go unmentioned. From larger feet to a superhuman sense of smell, pregnancy is packed with a number of unexpected surprises.
1. Pregnancy Really Lasts 10+ Months
An average pregnancy is said to last between 38 and 42 weeks, with most first-time moms delivering later rather than sooner. The due date is calculated at 40 weeks past one's last menstrual period. Though this is in itself a misnomer, estimating the start of pregnancy roughly two weeks in advance of actual conception, it is still far closer to 10 months for most women than 9.
Due dates are only set at 40 weeks because it is the average between 38 and 42. The American College of Gynecologists does not consider a pregnancy to be officially post term until after 42 weeks. If being a bit past your due date is getting you down, it may feel better to note that the longest pregnancy is reported to have lasted 375 days, well over a year!
2. Your Feet Will Likely Grow
The increasing pressure of newly gained pregnancy weight, in conjunction with looser-than-ever muscles and joints cause significant changes in the size and structure of many pregnant women's feet. These changes are sometimes temporary, with shoe size reverting back to normal following birth. However, it is possible for a woman to permanently increase by one shoe size or more during gestation.
3. Your Blood Clots Faster
The human body is an amazing machine, with several safeguards in place to help protect women and babies during pregnancy and birth. One fantastic mammalian example is that the blood clots faster and more efficiently during pregnancy. This is to prevent hemorrhage when the placenta is passed. The only downside to this amazing clotting is that a clot can break lose and cause serious problems in women who are extremely inactive or obese. To prevent these issues, make sure to get gentle exercise for about 15 minutes per day throughout pregnancy.
4. Your Sense of Smell Increases
Increases in estrogen during pregnancy lead to an intensified sense of smell. Though the degree to which smell increases varies by women, it is believed to be a largely contributing factor to morning sickness in some women. For some women, this is one of the very first signs of pregnancy.
5. The Average Woman's Uterus expands by up to 500 Times
During pregnancy a woman's uterus expands to 500 times its normal size. This expansion is related to the fetus, additional blood, the amniotic sac, and the placenta. This is one of the biggest changes that the human body undergoes. For women carrying twins, the expansion is usually even more significant.
Nicole S. Wilson is passionate about supporting the needs of pregnant women. She is the owner of Mermaid Maternity®, a maternity swimwear brand designed to help pregnant women feel comfortable and confident in their maternity bathing suits. Her functional and flattering maternity swimsuit line can be found at MermaidMaternity.net.
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