Don’t do this, definitely do that. Eat this, stay away from that. Buy this, avoid that. When it comes to pregnancy, everyone seems to have an opinion and unsolicited advice to give.
But, at the same time, there are things that no one really talks about that you need to know ASAP, to avoid any surprises down the line.
So it’s time for some real talk. We’ve asked the women in our community to share the insider scoop - the unfiltered, sugarcoat-free stuff that no one tells you about pregnancy.
1. Bleeding isn’t always a cause for concern (but get checked out!)
It’s true, bleeding during pregnancy does happen. But don’t worry, it doesn’t always mean that there’s a problem.
It could be down to an inflamed cervix or a slight infection, or in the early days it might be implantation. Then in the third trimester, it could be a sign that labor is about to begin. Basically, in the vast majority of cases, a small amount of blood will be nothing to worry about.
If you do notice bleeding during pregnancy, you should still reach out to your doc asap. At the very least, this will put your mind at ease.
2. Pregnancy nausea doesn’t always go away at 12 weeks
So, pregnancy varies from woman to woman - that doesn’t come as much of a surprise.
Pregnancy nausea (aka, morning sickness) affects around 65% of pregnant women (😫). Despite the misleading name - “morning sickness” doesn’t just strike in the morning, nor is it necessarily restricted to the first trimester.
For some, pregnancy nausea gets better after the first 12 weeks, others barely feel it at all. But unfortunately for some mamas-to-be, pregnancy nausea can go well into the second and even third trimester.
If that’s you, you can try drinking ginger tea and snacking on plain foods throughout the day to lessen the effects.
RELATED ➡️ Pregnancy Nausea: 13 Tips From Mamas Who Have Been There
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3. You can still maintain a workout plan
Contrary to what you might have heard, it’s totally safe to keep exercising while pregnant.
As long as you feel comfortable, listen to your body and don’t exhaust yourself, working out is not dangerous for your little peanut. Walking, yoga, running, you name it - you can still do it.
Not only is it safe, it’s actually recommended! Keeping up your normal activities and exercise can help reduce backaches, bloating, swelling and even lower the risk of gestational diabetes. Even better? It supposedly shortens labor, too!
4. Hemorrhoids happen
Here at Peanut, we don’t beat around the bush. Even when things get a bit… unsexy.
Hemorrhoids, aka piles, are the result of enlarged blood vessels inside or around you know where. Anyone can get hemorrhoids - not just pregnant women. But, when you’re pregnant - hemorrhoids are more likely to pop up since your pesky pregnancy hormones make the veins around your butt relax… Nice.
But it’s good to be prepared, right? So, if they do appear, try wipes with witch hazel to soothe or a warm bath with epsom salts.
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5. You might be turned off
Tired of hearing about other women’s second trimester grand adventures and spicy bedroom antics when the very thought of sex is a turn-off to you? We get it.
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Despite popular belief, a woman’s libido doesn’t necessarily increase over the course of her pregnancy. Whether you’re not in the right headspace, you’re exhausted, or your body just doesn’t feel up for it - you definitely shouldn’t worry about whether it’s normal or not.
Every woman is different. It’s OK to feel however it is that you feel.
6. Your baby bump might take time to show
Mamas-to-be start showing at different times. There’s no rule book when it comes to pregnancy!
For first-time mamas especially, your bump starts showing later because muscles around your belly haven’t been stretched yet by a previous pregnancy. Most women start to see a blossoming bump between 12 and 18 weeks with their first, and six and 18 weeks with their second.
Want more pearls of wisdom from other mamas? Join Peanut.
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