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Changes in your bodily functions
Cardiovascular:
Blood vessels relax to allow for greater blood flow.
By the 2nd trimester, your blood volume will increase by 40%. This is what causes the “puffy” look some women get.
Your heart rate increases by 10-15 beats per minute, resulting in decreased endurance. This is why you can get easily winded.
Decreased Blood Pressure can cause dizziness and make your heart race.
Respiratory
Contrary to popular belief, your lung capacity does not change. Growth of your uterus will cause you to begin to breath through your rib cage rather than in your tummy. (Costal vs. diaphragmatic breathing)
You increase oxygen consumption by 40-50%.
You will be more sensitive to carbon dioxide.
You may begin to hyperventilate.
Gastro-Intestinal Changes
Your intestines are made up of the same type of muscle as your uterus. The same hormone (progesterone) that cause your uterus not to contract, causes your intestinal track to slow down.
Your growing uterus invades the intestinal space.
You may experience constipation, acid reflux, gas and indigestion.
Changes in Metabolism:
Being pregnant burns an additional 300 calories per day over your regular needs. Your body will produce more heat, so you need to be careful not to over-heat. Weight gain of 20-40 lbs in common in single births, 50-70 lbs is common in multiple births.
Skin Changes:
Increased blood flow to the skin will help cool your body more efficiently (making you sweat more.)
You may experience “Cholasma” which is increased pigmentation in the skin, especially on your face.
You may get stretch marks or spider veins. This is hereditary, no lotion or oil can prevent it.
Nails and hair grow stronger and faster.
