Have you read from the beginning? If not, please click here for part 1.
Pregnancy is truly such a one of a kind journey. We have covered nose bleed, bleeding gums, acne, lightning crotch, linea nigra, swollen feet, and leg cramps. Now, what else is on the table? Let’s dig some more weird and unexpected pregnancy symptoms you may experience during this fun, fun gestation period.
7. Increased Vaginal Discharge
This may be an icky gross subject, but actually almost every pregnant mom has it in any stage of pregnancy. Things can sometimes look strange, and well, feel pretty wet down there.
Pregnancy discharge, also called leukorrhea, is a thin white, milky, mild-smelling fluid that acts as a protective mechanism for your growing baby. It basically helps unwanted bacteria to go in, while also protecting the good bacterias that exist there.
While an increased amount of vaginal discharge is normal, any discharge that is discolored, thick, itchy, bloodstained, or smelly could e a sign of something more serious.
The two most common vaginal infections that affect pregnant women are yeast and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Both of these infections need medical treatments because it can leads to preterm labor if left untreated.
It might be a little uncomfortable because of all that discharge down there. A few tips on how to deal with these are as follows. Keep the area dry and clean, wear breathable cotton underwear, and wear panty liners (but avoid using tampons as they can introduce bacteria).
8. The Ridiculously Vivid Dreams, or Nightmares
To make your pregnancy journey more intense, please welcome this symptom to the mix. You know, because apparently being an anxious pregnant mother is not enough.
Are you suddenly dreaming about talking animals, going back to school, being chased by dinosaurs, or ehm, sex (but not just with your partner)? Are those dreams feel VERY real and makes you question your sanity?
Well, thanks to the change in hormone levels, it can affect our sleep rhythms. In addition to constant nighttime awakenings for a bathroom run or restless leg syndrome, this weird pregnancy symptoms will messes up your sleep pattern.
Maybe it’s our body sign to prepare for sleep deprivation months ahead. Who knows?
Because dreams come during deep REM sleep, when you wake up during this stage, it will be much easier to remember those vivid visions.
These dreams may change in nature throughout pregnancy and become more common in the third trimester. While it is normal, it might be helpful to set up a relaxing bed routine to help you sleep better at night. You shouldn’t dwell on dreams during pregnancy and think too much into them too. After all, it was just a dream.
9. Leaky, leaky breasts
This can cause quite an embarrassment but is perfectly normal too. Your body just preparing things for the baby a little sooner than necessary. Although most pregnant women experience leaky breasts in the third semester, it can happen as early as 12 weeks too.
If this happens to you, please don’t try to pump in order to build an early stash of milk, as it can cause contractions that send you into preterm labor. Instead, the breast pads will be your best friend. Stock up a couple of boxes because you will need to frequently change it to maintain hygiene.
Also, try to wear more comfortable maternity bras to help ease the pain if you experiencing a letdown.
10. Dark Patches of Skin, or Melasma
No, you don’t get that beautiful tanning effect. This one is a blotchy brown patches of skin discoloration on your face (forehead, upper lip, chin, or cheks).
Melasma occurs when the skin cells that produce melanin, known as melanocytes, are increased because of elevated estrogen hormone during pregnancy.
A study shows that UV light will likely trigger the appearance of melasma. So wear sunscreen (SPF 25 or higher) when you’re out.
All in all, try to enjoy every minute of your pregnancy, how your body changes and don’t let the unpleasant side of it take the joy away. You’re growing a beautiful life after all!
Do you have other weird symptoms during pregnancy? I would love to hear them, please share in the comments below. Let’s commiserate together, mommies.
