Introduction
As we all know, pregnancy brings immense joy to the expectant couple. But it also brings so many changes in the mother’s life, both mental and physical changes. Apart from a growing belly, there are other physical changes during pregnancy a mother goes through, including swollen arms and legs and linea nigra.
Top 11 Physical Changes during Pregnancy

1. Growing belly: A growing belly is one of the main physical changes during pregnancy. Since the baby in the womb is rapidly growing and developing, the baby bump becomes more prominent.
2. Weight gain: It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy, and almost all pregnant mothers gain weight. It is to support the baby’s growth during pregnancy. The body also prepares for lactation, which in turn adds to the weight gain.
3. Breast changes: Since the body goes through a lot of hormonal changes and prepares for lactating, most pregnant mothers have enlarged breasts along with dark nipples.
4. Back pain: Back pain is yet another common physical change during pregnancy that most pregnant mothers experience. It can be caused due to various reasons, including hormonal changes, weight gain, and change in posture due to growing belly.
5. Breathing difficulties: Difficulty in breathing is also one of the common physical changes during pregnancy. It is mostly caused due to weight gain, hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy.
6. Hair changes: Of all the physical changes during pregnancy, hair growth is the one that almost all pregnant mothers adore. During pregnancy, the hair stays in the growing phase for a prolonged period of time leading to luscious and shiny hair with lesser hair fall.
7. Constipation: Due to hormonal changes, changes in diet and intake of supplements like iron can lead to constipation during pregnancy. As much as it is common, it is equally annoying. Your gynecologist might recommend dietary changes or medication to reduce constipation.
8. Fatigue: Fatigue is also common during pregnancy. Since the body is going through a lot of changes, it is common for pregnant mothers to feel tired and run low on energy especially in the first and the third trimester.
9. Varicose veins: Varicose veins are enlarged veins that mostly appear on the legs during pregnancy. It is a common occurrence that is mostly caused due to hormonal changes, increased blood volume and weight gain.
10. Nasal congestion: Nasal congestion is another common pregnancy physical change that most pregnant mothers experience. It is due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume.
11. Abdomen cramps: Some expectant mothers experience mild abdomen cramps especially during the first trimester of pregnancy and it is quite common.
When to consult a doctor?
Although all these symptoms are common, it is important to consult with a gynecologist if you experience:

- High fever with chills
- Severe abdomen cramps
- Blurry vision
- Severe headache
- Heavy bleeding
Conclusion
Pregnant mothers undergo so many physical changes and it is common. But if you experience any other symptoms such as severe headache with vomiting or blurry vision or bleeding, contact your gynecologist immediately.
For consultations with the best gynecologist in Chennai, Dr. Deepthi Jammi, contact Jammi Scans at 7338771733. Jammi Scans is one of the best gynecology clinics and scanning centers located in T Nagar, Chennai.
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
Deepthi
Dr. Deepthi Jammi (Director, Jammi Scans) is a qualified OB/GYN and Post-Doc in Maternal Fetal Medicine. As a pregnancy ultrasound expert, she is passionate about healthy pregnancies and works towards spreading awareness on the latest diagnostic options available for parents to choose from. Dr.Deepthi has received gold medals and awards in Fetal Medicine at international and national conferences, and has appeared in numerous prestigious regional magazines and TV interviews.