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Common Discomforts During Pregnancy. What’s Normal, and When to Get Help

Research-supported, mum-of-three observations — not medical advice.


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Pregnancy is incredible, yes — but it’s also a time when your body starts doing things that feel questionable at best and downright bizarre at worst. One minute you feel absolutely fine, the next you’re convinced your digestive system has unionised and gone on strike.


The good news? Many of the weird, uncomfortable and slightly alarming sensations are not only common — they’re expected. The better news? You don’t need to suffer in silence, and there are times when it’s worth checking in with your midwife.


Here’s a level-headed guide to what’s considered normal, what’s just annoying, and what deserves a second look.


First Trimester Discomforts: The Early Guests


Nausea & Vomiting

Very common, very inconvenient. If it’s mild to moderate, this falls firmly into the “normal but miserable” category.When to get help: If you can’t keep fluids down, you’re losing weight, or symptoms feel extreme — you may need medical support for hyperemesis gravidarum.


Cramping

Light, period-like cramps are common early on as your uterus expands.When to get help: Severe pain, or cramping accompanied by bleeding, always warrants a conversation with your midwife or GP.


Fatigue

This is practically a rite of passage in the first trimester. If sleep feels like your new personality, you’re not alone.


Second Trimester Discomforts: The “I Thought This Was Meant to Be the Easy Bit?” Stage


Heartburn

Ah, the classic. Your stomach and oesophagus suddenly start behaving like dramatic exes who refuse to get along. Why it happens: Hormones relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus. When to get help: If symptoms are severe or persistent.


Constipation

Nobody warns you about this one. Between hormones and iron supplements, things can slow down — a lot. Hydration, fibre, fruit, and movement usually help.


Round Ligament Pain

A sharp, brief, stretching pain in your lower belly or groin — usually triggered by standing up too fast or turning suddenly in bed. Completely normal (and completely annoying).


Third Trimester Discomforts: The Home Stretch


Back Pain

Growing bump = shifting posture = lower back protesting loudly. Gentle stretching, heat, and good support can help. If pain shoots down your legs or feels severe, check in with your midwife.


Swelling (Hands, Ankles, Feet)


Mild swelling is common. When to get help: Sudden swelling, especially in your face or hands, as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.


Pelvic Pressure


Your baby is doing some last-minute settling. Pressure is normal; intense pain or difficulty walking is not.


Discomforts That Sound Scary but Are Surprisingly Common


Shortness of Breath

Your organs are being politely nudged out of the way to make room for your baby. If you’re breathless walking up the stairs, you're in excellent company.


Braxton Hicks Contractions

Practice contractions — like your uterus is rehearsing. Tightening without pain = normal. Regular, painful contractions = time to talk to your midwife.


Weird Dreams

Pregnancy dreams are their own genre. They’re vivid, emotional and sometimes downright strange — thank the hormones.


When It’s Important to Get Checked


Always speak to a midwife, GP or triage if you experience:

  • Heavy bleeding

  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain

  • Reduced fetal movements (once you’re feeling them regularly)

  • Severe headaches not relieved by rest or hydration

  • Vision changes

  • Sudden swelling

  • Fever or chills

  • Any instinct that something feels “off”

Your instincts matter, and healthcare professionals would much rather reassure you than have you worry alone.


A Gentle Reminder


Every pregnancy is different. Some women experience almost every symptom on this list; others glide through with barely a whisper of discomfort. Neither experience predicts the rest of your pregnancy or your birth.


You’re navigating a huge physical and emotional transition — it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, curious, irritated, proud, or all of the above within the same hour.


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