Pregnancy Surprises

Maybe you came from a family who talked about everything (like mine) or maybe you came from one that didn't talk about anything. Maybe your family was somewhere inbetween. Regardless, there a few things about pregnancy that you've probably never been told. I've done a lot of research to find these things, some of them are pretty embarrassing. Still, I think you might want to find out incase they happen!

1.) Incontinence!

As you probably know, many women suffer from urinary incontinence after (or during!) pregnancy. Simply put, they can't hold it. The baby puts a lot of pressure on your bladder and it's nothing to be ashamed of if it happens to you. Delivery also tires those muscles beyond anything else and it can take a while for them to get back into shape. (There are exercises that will really help with this, ask your doctor about them!)

Here's the surprise: What you might not know, though, is that anywhere from ten to twenty percent of pregnant women suffer to some degree from fecal incontinence. It's the same basic problem but in different muscles. (The ones controlling bowel movements) Those Kegels really help!!!!

2.) Varicose Veins!

You've probably heard of hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Those are weakened veins in the rectum that can cause discomfort during bowel movements and varicose veins in the thighs are veins weakened from pumping all the blood to your enlarging abdomen. To try and prevent the first don't strain during bowel movements and avoid constipation (drink a lot of water!!). To avoid the latter, elevate your legs every day, rest, and try not to stay on your feet all day. Also, avoid constrictive (tight) clothing and tight pantyhose. There are support hose available, talk to your doctor to see if that's necessary.

Here's the surprise: What you may not have heard of are varicose veins of the vulva. You probably won't get them, it's fairly rare, but it is possible. If you do get them, your doctor will tell you how to treat them. They'll provide you with witch hazel and ice packs to help relieve the irritation.

3.) Third Nipple?!!

I'll hit you with it right away this time! Another rare but possible 'complication' is the infamous third nipple. Yes, there really are people born with an extra nipple. I've been told it usually looks like a normal freckle or mole until the hormones in pregnancy cause it to develop into a full fledged nipple. Only about 1 to 5 percent of pregnant women have developed this interesting and embarrassing extra, so it's doubtful you will. If you are among the brave and few, don't worry about it. When the surging hormones of pregnancy subside, so will your extra nipple.


That's all for now! When I come up with some more, I'll add them. If you know of any strange, overlooked pregnancy related thing, email me and let me know. I'll add it to this page as soon as it's verified. My address is Ilyssa13@hotmail.com

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