CHANGES DURING AND AFTER PREGNANCY.

“Am not the same,” are some of the comments most first moms will use to express different changes in their bodies during and after pregnancy.

Pregnancy comes with many challenges, and understanding what happens helps one to understand how to deal with these changes. The following are some of the expected changes;

Weight gain

There is no doubt about weight gain. Increased body fluids during pregnancy contribute to weight gain. Also, the fetus contributes to weight.

Fluids can accumulate in the feet, contributing to limb swelling.

All these come with other challenges including muscle stretch in both the abdominal and limbs due to fluid accumulation.

Some of the weight is retained even after delivery.

Back and pelvic pain

The stretching of abdominal muscles and production of relaxin hormone which facilitates laxity of muscles and ligaments to allow delivery also contributes negatively to the back. Too much stress on the back results in pain.

Pregnancy changes one’s posture and centre of mass. The centre of mass shifts forward, forcing one to lean backwards to counter the force. This leads to stains on the back muscles and ligaments resulting in pain.

Relaxin also has an effect on pelvic muscles to aid in delivery. Pelvic tilt may occur. Both combined lead to pelvic pain.

The hormone also contributes to joint hypermobility.

Urinary incontinence: some mothers may experience urine leaks.

Others include;

postpartum depression and anxiety.

After delivery, the oxytocin hormone which is responsible for maternal characteristics like being conscious of the dangers around the baby’s environment may also lead to anxiety if released in large amounts. Usually, progesterone counters the effects but after delivery, its levels are low hence the anxiety.

What to do during and after pregnancy.

It’s in the public domain that exercise will help relieve some changes, however, it’s important to know what exercise to do, when and how. Visit qualified medical personnel for professional advice and a personalized exercise program.

They help assess, screen and continuously monitor your progress. The exercise will include abdominal and back strengthening exercises and also pelvic floor exercises among others. They are basically referred to as deliver strong exercises which are done before delivery and restore core exercises which are done after delivery.

• During sitting ensure your limbs are elevated, this is to facilitate fluid flow.
• During sleeping, put pillows below your legs to elevate them.
• If you are breastfeeding ensure the baby is well positioned, you can use the pillow to support the baby and bring him closer, this helps prevent upper back pain.
• Use a supportive bra.
• During pregnancy, do walks, use supportive shoes and encourage ankle and foot exercises.
• Avoid carrying a baby on one hip as it may alter your posture resulting in back pain.
• Always use seats with backrests.
• Avoid heavy lifting.

If you experience the following symptoms during exercise, STOP immediately and seek medical advice

• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal bleeding
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Faintness

Congratulations to all mothers, you are a blessing.