When pregnancy begins, we can observe or check the changes occurring in the body ourselves from the following signs. If there are abnormalities beyond these, new mothers should carefully observe themselves to prepare for consulting a doctor.
- Missed period
If the period is delayed by about 4-5 days without any contraception, you should consult a doctor to test your urine for pregnancy. However, there are other causes for irregular periods, such as severe stress or anxiety from work, family problems, or fear of being pregnant when not ready, which can affect hormone function, resulting in no ovulation during that cycle and thus a delayed period. Other causes include hyperthyroidism, abnormal high prolactin hormone levels, etc. - Frequent urination
This is caused by increased kidney function due to the increased blood volume in the body during pregnancy, which causes more blood to pass through the kidneys. Additionally, the expanding uterus presses on the bladder, resulting in more frequent urination. - Breast tenderness
Normally, near the time of menstruation, breasts begin to feel tender and tight, which is similar to early pregnancy. This is due to the adjustment of the mammary glands caused by hormones. The symptoms last about 2-3 months and then disappear on their own. - Nausea, vomiting, or morning sickness
These symptoms may be accompanied by dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. They usually start about a month into pregnancy and last about 2-3 months before subsiding. Some people may experience symptoms for a longer period. - Weight gain
On average, during pregnancy, weight should increase by about 10–14 kilograms. In the first 3 months, weight should increase by about 1-2 kilograms if morning sickness is not severe. In months 4-5, weight should increase by 1-1.5 kilograms per month. From month 6 onwards, weight should increase by 1.5-2.0 kilograms per month. Foods that cause faster weight gain in mothers are carbohydrates and fats, such as rice, noodles, sweets, and high-fat foods. Therefore, it is important to be cautious not to consume too much of these food groups.
“The physical changes that occur can be clearly observed, but in terms of emotions, pregnant women will feel things such as happiness, disappointment, fear of labor pain, sometimes excessive anxiety about the baby to be born, fear of abnormalities, concerns about body shape changes, and fear of excessive changes. These causes may lead to irritability, stress, insufficient sleep, and thus increased susceptibility to illness.
Therefore, the best friend who is ready to encourage, comfort, and be patient with the changes occurring in a pregnant woman is the husband, who can greatly help from the beginning of pregnancy, during labor, and after delivery by providing encouragement, understanding, and close warm care.”
