Untold Stories of Pregnancy: Weird Signs and Symptoms

Most women are familiar with some of the more normal symptoms and side effects of pregnancy such as morning sickness and fatigue but there are some side effects and symptoms that come as a surprise and even shock to pregnant women since they are not talked about as often. Here is a look at some of the weird signs and symptoms of pregnancy that women may experience.

What is that line? Although not all women will get this line, many will get what is known as the linea negra which is a line that runs down their stomach. This line will vary in color as for some women it is fairly light while for others it is darker in color. This line will appear on women of all races and ages and although it can look strange it is just a result of the extra hormones that are being produced as a result of the pregnancy. These hormones that are produced during pregnancy increase the production of melanin which is responsible for darkening of the skin. There is no need to be concerned over this line as actually it is a sign that the pregnancy is progressing well and it usually disappears within a few months after the pregnancy is over.

What are these dark freckles? Thanks to all those extra hormones and the shift of hormones that happen to the body during pregnancy another strange symptom that occurs to some pregnant women is called the mask of pregnancy. This is when parts of the face begin to get darker and look as though a large mask of dark freckles on the face. Known as chloasma this mask is often not treated during pregnancy because it could pose a risk to the unborn baby and there is a chance it would just come back because of the hormones. Women with darker skin or those who spend a great deal amount of time out in the sun may run the risk of having an increased chance of having this mask so pregnant women are encouraged to wear a hat that helps shade the face as well as sunscreen. Once the baby has been delivered then doctors can discuss ways and methods to help get rid of the mask. These methods may include laser treatments and even special peels.

What is that smell? Another strange side effect of pregnancy is a smell sensitivity. Many women find they are wrinkling their noses to smells that normally never bothered them or would have noticed. For some women they may find that even the slightest smells of food or even perfume can make them gag especially during the first trimester when they are dealing with morning sickness. Once again, hormones are responsible for this change in the body and increase sensitivity to smells. As for coping with this odd side effect of pregnancy, the best way is to just try to avoid smells. While this is not possible all the time, try to stay away from places where you know there will be strong odors and avoid using perfume for the time being. It is also a great excuse for getting out of having to cook! Just like other signs of pregnancy, this one too will soon go away and once the baby is born, most women find they are back to normal.

Sources: My own experiences.