Pregnancy: Body ChangesEl embarazo: Cambios del cuerpo

Pregnancy: Body Changes

From conception (fertilization) until after the birth of your child, you and your baby will change every day. To help you understand what is happening, we've outlined how pregnancy begins and some of the changes you may notice.

Image
The fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube and attaches to the uterus.

How Pregnancy Begins

Conception is the union of a sperm and an egg. When it occurs, your baby's genetic makeup is complete, even its sex. Fertilization takes place in the fallopian tube. The fertilized egg then travels down this tube to the uterus (womb). The egg attaches to the lining of the uterus about a week later. There it grows and is nourished.

Your Changing Body

Pregnancy affects almost every part of your body. You may notice some of the following physical and emotional changes:

  • Your uterus expands outward and upward as your baby grows. You may feel pressure on your bladder, stomach, and other organs.

  • You may notice skin color changes on your forehead, nose, and cheeks. A dark line may form from your bellybutton down to your pubic area. The skin color around your nipples and thighs may also change.

  • Pink stretch marks may appear on your abdomen, breasts, or hips.

  • Your hair may seem thicker. You lose less hair during pregnancy.

  • You may feel fine one day and weepy the next. This is caused by changes in your body, such as increased hormones (chemicals that affect the function of certain organs and also your moods).

Publication Source: Merck Manuals Online Medical Library

Online Source: Merck Manuals Online Medical Library

Date Last Reviewed: 2007-01-15T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2005-01-05T00:00:00-07:00

Patient Reviews

Dr. Khan is an amazing doctor, she truly cares for her patients and gives them the needed time and attention. Dr. Khan is a very good person and I would highly recommend her.

E.P.

Video Gallery

Health Library