Other Pregnancy Changes.

I've noticed that my hair has been growing faster and feels thicker now that I'm pregnant. Is this common?
Changes in your hair are often triggered by pregnancy hormones. You may also notice less hair loss than usual. Unfortunately, after your baby is born, the hair you have retained during pregnancy is lost. Don't worry if it happens to you you're not going bald!

My nails, which have always been soft and hard to grow, are now long and grow very fast. Will they always be like this?
The same hormones that cause your hair to grow also influence your nails. You may have problems keeping your nails filed to a practical length] Enjoy them while you're pregnant.

I seem to be getting more facial hair now that I'm pregnant. Why?
Usually it's not a problem, but check with your doctor if it worries you. Facial hair will probably disappear or decrease after pregnancy, so wait before making any decisions about permanent hair removal.

I feel hot all the time since I've been pregnant. Why do I feel this way?
During pregnancy, your metabolism increases; your body uses more energy when you're pregnant. This may cause you to feel overheated.

I've been perspiring so much during my pregnancy. Why?
Pregnancy hormones elevate your body temperature, which may lead to greater perspiration. Use absorbent powder to keep dry because excess moisture can result in a heat rash. Don't get overheated, and wear layers of clothing to peel off if you have to. If you perspire heavily, keep up your fluid intake to avoid dehydration.

Every time I go to the doctor, my stomach is measured with a tape measure. Why?
As you progress in your pregnancy, your doctor needs a point of reference to measure how much your uterus is growing. Some measure from the bellybutton to the top of the uterus. Others measure from the pubis symphysis, the place where pubic bones meet in the middle-lower part of your abdomen, to the top of the uterus.

What do these measurements reveal?
These measurements can reveal a great deal. If at 20 weeks, you measure 11.2 inches (28cm], your doctor may be concerned about the possibility of twins or an incorrect due date. If you measure 6 inches (15cm) at this point, your due date may be wrong or there may be a concern about intrauterine-growth restriction or some other problem. If there is a question, your doctor may have you further evaluated by ultrasound.

I'm due in a couple of weeks, and I've noticed a change in the shape of my abdomen it seems lower. Should I be concerned?
Often a few weeks before labor begins or at the beginning of labor, the head of your baby begins to enter the birth canal, and your uterus seems to drop a bit. This is called lightening. Don't be concerned if this occurs.

A friend told me that when her baby dropped, she felt better. Why?
One benefit is an increase in space in your upper abdomen, which gives you more room to breathe. However, as your baby descends, you may notice more pressure in your pelvis, bladder and rectum, which may make you uncomfortable.

Someone told me that my center of gravity changes during pregnancy. How does this affect me?
When your uterus grows, it grows out in front of you, and your center of gravity moves forward over your legs. Joints are also looser, and it may feel as if they are slipping. These changes may affect your posture and cause backaches.

I'm 19 weeks' pregnant and have gained only 4 pounds (1.8kg). Should I be concerned?
Weight gain can vary a great deal. If you were sick a lot or had nausea during the first few months, you may have lost weight at first and may be a little behind in gaining weight. If you were overweight
before you got pregnant, you may not have gained as much. At this point, you should be gaining weight regularly. Discuss it with your doctor if you are concerned.