7 Bizarre Pregnancy Symptoms You Didn't Know Were Normal

Pregnancy isn’t just about morning sickness and cravings - it comes with unexpected symptoms that can catch you off guard. From swollen gums to tingling hands, your body undergoes changes that might seem unusual but are perfectly normal. Here’s a quick look at what to expect and how to manage these surprises:

• Swelling in Unlikely Areas: Hands, face, nasal passages, and gums may puff up. Stay hydrated, elevate your feet, and practice good oral care.
• Varicose and Spider Veins: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume can cause visible veins. Compression stockings and leg elevation can help.
• Energy Swings and Sleep Issues: Hormones can disrupt sleep and energy levels. Stick to a bedtime routine, use pregnancy pillows, and limit caffeine.
• Breathing and Heart Rate Changes: Breathlessness and a faster heartbeat are common due to increased blood volume. Rest, adjust your sleeping position, and avoid overexertion.
• Taste, Smell, and Oral Health Shifts: Metallic taste, heightened smell, and gum sensitivity may occur. Use a soft toothbrush and rinse with salt water.
• Skin and Hair Changes: Dark patches, stretch marks, and thicker hair are common. Use sunscreen and gentle skincare.
• Numbness and Tingling: Carpal tunnel syndrome from fluid retention may cause hand discomfort. Wrist splints and ergonomic adjustments can ease symptoms.

While these changes are typically harmless, sudden or severe symptoms like extreme swelling, vision issues, or chest pain require immediate medical attention. Always consult your doctor if something feels off.

Understanding these symptoms can help you prepare for the journey ahead. Plus, it’s a good time to consider options like preserving cord blood for potential future treatments.

1. Swelling in Unexpected Body Parts

Swollen feet and ankles? Sure, that’s something most pregnant women anticipate, especially as they approach the third trimester. But did you know swelling, or edema, can show up in some pretty surprising places during pregnancy?

As your body ramps up blood and fluid production to support your baby, you might notice swelling in areas like your hands, fingers, face, nasal passages, and even your gums. For instance, swollen hands and fingers can make rings feel tight or impossible to remove. Your face might look puffier, with more pronounced fullness around your eyes, cheeks, or nose. Swelling in the nasal passages, caused by inflamed mucous membranes, can lead to pregnancy rhinitis - a stuffy nose that might stick around for months. And don’t be surprised if your gums feel swollen or more tender than usual (hello, pregnancy gingivitis!), thanks to hormonal shifts making them extra sensitive to plaque.

So, what can you do to manage this? Here are a few tips:

• Elevate your feet whenever possible to reduce swelling.
• Remove rings early in pregnancy before swelling makes it tricky.
• Use a humidifier or saline spray to ease nasal congestion.
• Switch to a soft toothbrush and practice good oral hygiene to care for tender gums.
• Stay hydrated with 8–10 glasses of water daily, and cut back on sodium to help your kidneys flush out excess fluids.

While most swelling during pregnancy is harmless, it’s important to stay alert. Sudden or severe swelling in your face, hands, or feet - especially if paired with headaches or vision issues - could signal preeclampsia, a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Always check with your healthcare provider if something feels off.

Up next, we’ll look at how these fluid changes can lead to even more unexpected pregnancy experiences. Stay tuned!

2. Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

During pregnancy, many women notice the appearance of varicose and spider veins, often catching them off guard - especially in the second and third trimesters.

This happens because pregnancy increases blood volume, which puts extra pressure on your veins. At the same time, elevated progesterone levels relax the walls of your blood vessels and weaken the valves that help blood flow in one direction. Add the growing pressure of your expanding uterus pressing on major pelvic veins - like the inferior vena cava - and it's no surprise these veins make their appearance.

Spider veins are small, web-like veins that sit just beneath the skin, while varicose veins are larger, raised, and sometimes rope-like in appearance. As pregnancy progresses, the combination of rising blood volume, a growing uterus, and hormone changes continues to make these veins more noticeable.

The good news? These vein issues are normal, harmless, and usually disappear within 6 to 12 months after delivery. However, they can cause discomfort, including aching, throbbing, itching, or a heavy sensation in the legs - especially if you’re on your feet for long periods.

Managing these symptoms doesn’t have to be complicated. Compression stockings can make a big difference. Vascular surgeon Dr. Kathleen Boyle explains:

Compression stockings don't let the veins dilate, which improves symptoms like aching, throbbing and itching - especially if you wear them throughout the day.

When choosing compression stockings, look for medical-grade options that provide the most pressure at the ankle and gradually ease up toward the thigh. Another helpful tip? Elevating your legs whenever possible. Dr. Boyle adds:

It's kind of impractical, but if you can elevate your legs, you'll notice that your symptoms will improve.

Try lying down with your legs raised above your heart or propping them on a stool while sitting. These small adjustments can ease discomfort and help you stay more active. Taking breaks to walk around, doing calf raises, or engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming or walking also keeps your blood circulating. Maintaining a healthy weight, as recommended by your doctor, reduces added pressure on your veins.

Other simple changes can help too: wear loose-fitting clothes, avoid high heels, keep your legs uncrossed while sitting, and focus on reducing sodium while staying hydrated to minimize swelling.

While most varicose veins during pregnancy aren’t a cause for concern, watch for warning signs. Contact your doctor if your veins start bleeding, become unusually swollen, or show redness, warmth, or tenderness - these could indicate a blood clot that needs immediate attention.

Up next, we’ll explore how pregnancy can impact your energy levels and sleep patterns.

3. Unusual Energy Levels and Sleep Changes

Pregnancy can bring about unexpected shifts in energy and sleep patterns, leaving many women feeling like their internal clock has gone haywire.

In the first trimester, fatigue often takes center stage as your body adjusts to its new demands. But here's the twist: energy levels don't stay consistent. You might feel drained all day, only to find yourself wide awake at 3:00 AM. Or you could experience sudden bursts of energy that vanish as quickly as they appeared. These fluctuations are largely driven by hormonal changes. Progesterone, for instance, promotes daytime drowsiness, while rising levels of estrogen and hCG can keep you tossing and turning at night.

As if hormones weren’t enough, physical challenges start to pile on. A growing belly makes finding a comfy sleeping position tricky, and frequent bathroom trips disrupt deep sleep. Some women also deal with restless leg syndrome or vivid dreams that jolt them awake, adding yet another layer to the sleep struggle.

The second trimester often feels like a reprieve, earning its nickname as the "honeymoon period" of pregnancy. Energy levels tend to rise, and you might feel ready to take on big tasks like organizing the nursery or deep cleaning the house. But be cautious - this energy boost can sometimes lead to overexertion, followed by an unexpected crash.

By the third trimester, sleep often becomes a nightly battle. Your baby’s movements, persistent heartburn, and the sheer size of your belly can make restful sleep feel like a distant memory. Many women find themselves wide awake late at night, which can lead to a frustrating cycle of daytime fatigue and nighttime alertness.

To navigate these ups and downs, a consistent bedtime routine can be a lifesaver. Try signaling to your body that it’s time to wind down by sticking to a regular schedule. Use pregnancy pillows to support your belly and legs, and keep your bedroom cool and dark for maximum comfort.

Short naps during the day can help you recharge, but keep them to 20-30 minutes and avoid napping after 3:00 PM to prevent interfering with nighttime sleep. If you hit an energy high, channel it into low-key activities like light organizing or prenatal yoga instead of overloading yourself with intensive projects.

Hydration is key, but cutting back on fluids a few hours before bedtime can reduce those annoying bathroom trips. A short walk after dinner can also help set the stage for better sleep.

Limit caffeine after 2:00 PM, and try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle stretches before bed. If racing thoughts keep you up, keep a notepad by your bed to jot them down - sometimes, writing things out can help clear your mind.

These energy swings and sleep disruptions, while challenging, are temporary. They’re also a reminder of the incredible work your body is doing. And in a way, they’re preparing you for the unpredictable sleep schedule that comes with a newborn.

Up next: how pregnancy affects your cardiovascular system.

4. Breathing Problems and Fast Heartbeat

Pregnancy brings a host of changes to your body, and among them, unexpected breathlessness and a faster heartbeat can take you by surprise. These symptoms are often linked to increased blood volume and fluctuating hormones.

In the early stages, rising progesterone levels can deepen your breathing. Later on, as your uterus expands, it presses against your diaphragm, making it harder for your lungs to fully expand. Everyday tasks - like carrying groceries or walking short distances - might leave you feeling unusually winded.

The extra blood your body produces during pregnancy also forces your heart to work harder, even when you're at rest. You may notice your heart racing or pounding after activities that once felt effortless.

To ease these symptoms, try propping yourself up with pillows and sleeping on your left side. Avoid lying flat, as this can compress important blood vessels and make breathing more difficult. Gentle activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help strengthen your heart and lungs. If you feel short of breath, sit upright, relax your shoulders, and take slow, deep breaths. Raising your arms can also help open up your chest and make breathing easier.

However, some symptoms require immediate medical attention. Call 911 if you experience sudden or severe shortness of breath, chest pain, blue lips or fingers, or trouble speaking. If your shortness of breath worsens quickly, doesn’t improve with position changes, or comes with wheezing or pain while breathing, contact your healthcare provider right away.

The good news? As your baby moves lower in the final weeks of pregnancy, the pressure on your diaphragm may lessen, making it easier to breathe.

Next, learn how pregnancy can change your sense of taste and smell.

5. Changes in Taste, Smell, and Mouth Health

Pregnancy doesn’t just bring changes to your energy levels and breathing - it can also affect your senses and oral health. Thanks to hormonal shifts, it’s completely normal to notice changes in your taste and smell. A metallic taste might linger in your mouth, making familiar foods taste off, and even everyday scents can suddenly feel overwhelming.

These sensory changes are largely tied to increased estrogen levels, which heighten the sensitivity of the cells responsible for taste and smell. For many women, these shifts are most pronounced during the first trimester and tend to ease up as the pregnancy progresses, though some sensitivity may stick around until after childbirth.

Your oral health isn’t exempt from these changes either. Pregnancy hormones can lead to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, where gums become swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding during brushing. Some women may even notice small, harmless growths on their gums, which typically disappear after delivery. On top of that, you might experience an increase in saliva production, leaving your mouth feeling perpetually full.

To manage these symptoms, try rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution or chewing sugar-free gum to combat that metallic taste. Stick to your usual dental hygiene routine, but use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating sensitive gums. If brushing feels uncomfortable or triggers a gag reflex, switching to a smaller toothbrush head or a toothpaste with a different flavor might help. And don’t forget to let your dentist know you’re pregnant during your checkups.

If you’re dealing with severe gum pain, persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with good oral care, or growths that make eating or speaking difficult, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

6. Skin and Hair Changes

Pregnancy brings about noticeable changes to your skin and hair, thanks to hormonal shifts. While some women enjoy the well-known "pregnancy glow", others may experience a mix of unexpected changes.

One common skin condition during pregnancy is melasma, often called the "mask of pregnancy." This causes dark patches to appear on areas like your forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. These patches result from increased melanin production triggered by hormonal changes. The good news? Melasma is usually temporary and often fades within a few months to a year after giving birth.

You might also notice a dark vertical line running down the center of your belly, known as the linea nigra. This line tends to become more visible as your pregnancy progresses and typically fades after delivery.

Stretch marks are another common occurrence, showing up as reddish or purplish streaks on areas like your belly, breasts, thighs, or hips. While these marks are a natural part of your body adapting to pregnancy, moisturizing with unscented lotions can help ease itching and discomfort.

Hair changes are also part of the experience. During the second trimester, you may find your hair feeling thicker and fuller due to hormones prolonging its growth phase. However, after delivery, many women experience some hair loss between three to six months postpartum as hormone levels return to normal. Hair texture may also shift temporarily during this time.

To care for your skin and hair, consider these tips:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to help prevent melasma from becoming more pronounced.
• Stick to gentle, fragrance-free skincare products to avoid irritation.
• Use a wide-tooth comb to minimize hair breakage, and try to avoid harsh chemical treatments or excessive heat styling.

If you notice sudden, severe acne or rapidly spreading skin discoloration that doesn’t improve with gentle care, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

7. Numbness, Tingling, and Carpal Tunnel

Pregnancy comes with its fair share of surprises, and one of them might involve your hands. If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or even pain in your hands, you’re not alone. These sensations are often linked to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which many expectant mothers encounter, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

So, what’s happening here? Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve - responsible for sensation in your thumb, index, middle, and part of your ring finger - gets compressed in the narrow passage of your wrist. During pregnancy, the increased fluid retention and blood volume cause swelling in this area, which puts extra pressure on the nerve. Hormonal changes, like the release of relaxin, can also play a role in intensifying these symptoms.

You might notice that these sensations tend to worsen at night or first thing in the morning. Everyday tasks like opening jars or fastening buttons can suddenly feel like monumental challenges.

The good news? For most people, these symptoms are temporary and usually improve after childbirth. However, it’s important to monitor their severity. Persistent numbness or weakness could signal nerve damage. As experts note¹:

At the onset of CTS, symptoms may come and go. But when numbness or weakness occurs frequently or constantly, that's a potential sign of nerve damage.

If you find yourself dealing with frequent or constant numbness, significant muscle weakness, or a complete loss of sensation in your hands, it’s time to contact your healthcare provider. And if these symptoms are paired with dizziness, muscle spasms, or difficulty moving your hands or feet, seek immediate medical help.

To help your doctor, keep a record of when your symptoms started and how often they occur. Simple measures like taking breaks, making ergonomic changes, or using wrist splints can often bring relief. If these don’t help, be sure to discuss other options with your healthcare provider.

Lastly, if these symptoms linger after your pregnancy, don’t brush them off - let your doctor know. These temporary discomforts are just another reminder of the incredible work your body is doing to support your baby’s growth.

Normal vs Warning Signs: What to Watch For

Pregnancy comes with a wide range of symptoms, many of which are completely expected. However, it’s essential to recognize when something might require medical attention to protect both your health and your baby’s well-being. While normal discomforts develop gradually and remain manageable, warning signs often appear suddenly, worsen quickly, or feel severe. Knowing the difference can make all the difference.

For example, mild swelling in your face, hands, legs, or ankles is entirely common, especially in the later months of pregnancy. You might also notice a sense of heaviness or occasional cramping in your legs. These sensations are typically mild and manageable. On the other hand, symptoms like sudden or excessive swelling, severe headaches, or vision changes could signal something more serious, such as preeclampsia - a condition that requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to severe complications if untreated.

Here’s a quick guide to help you distinguish between normal symptoms and warning signs:

Symptom Category	Normal Signs	Warning Signs	Action Required
Swelling	Gradual, mild puffiness in the face, hands, legs, or ankles	Sudden or extreme swelling, especially in the face or hands; difficulty bending fingers or wearing rings; puffy eyes that are hard to open	Seek immediate medical care
Headaches	Mild headaches that improve with rest or safe pain relief	Severe, persistent headache that worsens or is paired with blurred vision or dizziness	Contact your healthcare provider immediately
Vision Changes	No significant changes in vision	Flashes of light, bright spots, blind spots, blurry vision, or double vision	Seek immediate medical attention
General Symptoms	Gradual onset, manageable with rest or simple remedies	Any symptom that is sudden, severe, or paired with other warning signs	Seek immediate medical attention

For mild swelling in your legs, simple steps like wearing support stockings, elevating your legs, and incorporating gentle exercise into your day can often provide relief. However, always monitor your symptoms closely and reach out to your doctor if anything worsens or seems unusual. It’s better to check in and be reassured than to overlook something potentially serious.

Beyond managing symptoms, pregnancy is also a time to think about your family’s future health. Services like those from Americord allow families to preserve stem cells from cord blood, cord tissue, and placental tissue at birth. These preserved cells could offer potential treatment options for various conditions down the road, giving you additional peace of mind. Pricing is subject to change and may include Annual Fees (in some cases); visit our main pricing page for the most up-to-date information.

Pregnancy is full of changes, and while many symptoms are normal, recognizing warning signs ensures you can act quickly when needed. Pair these tips with regular prenatal care to safeguard your health and your baby’s well-being.

Americord: Your Choice for Comprehensive Stem Cell Banking

Beyond managing the daily changes of pregnancy, preparing for your baby’s arrival is the perfect time to explore long-term health protection for your family. Americord Registry offers expecting parents the most advanced and comprehensive options for preserving newborn stem cells, providing a biological safety net for potential future medical treatments.

We specialize in banking all three valuable birth sources, each rich in different types of powerful stem cells:

• Cord Blood Banking: Preserving hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) found in the umbilical cord blood. These cells are currently used in over 80 FDA-approved treatments for blood disorders, cancers, and immune system diseases. Our proprietary CryoMaxx™ Processing maximizes the cell yield, and we store the cells in a flexible 5-compartment bag for multiple treatment options.
• Cord Tissue Banking: Storing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from the umbilical cord tissue. MSCs are the focus of hundreds of clinical trials for regenerative medicine, including potential therapies for neurological disorders, orthopedic injuries, and autoimmune diseases.
• Placental Tissue Banking: Preserving powerful cells from the placental tissue, which are a valuable resource for both the baby and, uniquely, a strong genetic match for the mother. This tissue is being researched for potential use in wound healing and tissue repair.
• Newborn Exosome Banking: Americord is the first private biobank to offer the preservation of exosomes, the microscopic messengers of regenerative medicine, representing the cutting edge of potential future therapies.

Choosing Americord means choosing scientific innovation and maximum flexibility for your family’s future health. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality processing and storage, giving you peace of mind that your baby's life-saving cells are protected.

To learn more about your options, including our different family plans, visit our main pricing page for the most up-to-date information. Pricing is subject to change and may include Annual Fees (in some cases): https://production.americordblood.com/pricing

Conclusion

Pregnancy comes with its fair share of changes - some expected, others surprising. The most important thing is to stay informed and keep open lines of communication with your healthcare provider. Regular prenatal visits not only track your baby’s growth but also ensure your own well-being. If you notice unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to bring them up - chances are, your provider has seen it all and can offer advice or reassurance.

While navigating these changes, it’s also a good time to think about your family’s future health. For example, you might explore options like preserving your baby’s cord blood, tissue, and placental cells through Americord. These can hold promise for potential medical treatments down the road.

FAQs

What are some simple ways to relieve pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome at home?

Pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome can often be alleviated with a few straightforward approaches. Start by giving your wrists some rest - cut back on repetitive motions, steer clear of heavy lifting, and try to keep your hands elevated whenever possible to help reduce swelling. You can also use cold packs or alternate between warm and cold water to ease discomfort.

A wrist splint, particularly when worn at night, can help maintain a neutral wrist position and reduce pressure on the nerves. Simple hand exercises, like clenching your fist and then stretching your fingers, or gentle massages, can boost circulation and relieve tension. Reducing your sodium intake might also help manage fluid retention and swelling. If your symptoms don’t improve, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider for additional support.

How can I tell if my pregnancy swelling is normal or a sign of preeclampsia?

It's common to notice some swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles during pregnancy, particularly as you move into the later stages. But keep an eye out for excessive swelling - especially in your face, hands, or around your eyes - as it may signal preeclampsia, a serious condition that needs immediate medical care.

Be alert for other warning signs like:

• Severe or ongoing headaches
• Blurred vision or seeing flashes or spots
• Pain or tightness just below your ribs

If you experience any of these symptoms or feel uneasy about the swelling, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. When it comes to your health and your baby's safety, it's always better to be cautious.

Why do pregnant women notice changes in taste and smell, and how can they handle them?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes - especially rising levels of estrogen and progesterone - can lead to noticeable shifts in taste and smell. You might find yourself more sensitive to odors (hyperosmia), craving or avoiding certain foods, or even dealing with a metallic taste in your mouth (dysgeusia).

While these changes can’t be completely avoided, there are simple ways to manage them. If you’re struggling with a metallic taste, try eating citrus fruits, incorporating foods with vinegar, or brushing your tongue to help neutralize it. For sensitivity to smells, stick to mild scents, avoid strongly fragranced products, and prepare foods that don’t trigger nausea. The good news? These symptoms often ease up as pregnancy progresses or after the baby arrives.

References

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