Pregnancy: Physical and Psychological Changes in Women

Introduction4

Aim of Research5

Objectives of Research5

Literature Review6

Psychological Changes6

Psychological Changes in First Trimester7

Mind-body interactions in pregnant women8

Psychological Changes in Second Trimester9

Psychological Changes in Third Trimester9

Mood Swings11

Dreams during the Period of Pregnancy12

Memory May Become Fuzzy13

Physical Changes during Pregnancy13

Body Aches13

Constipation14

Breast Changes14

Dizziness14

Sleep Problems and Fatigue15

Indigestion and Heartburn15

Itching16

Leg Cramps16

Morning Sickness16

Nasal Problems16

Tingling or Numb Hands17

Swelling18

Frequent Urination and Leaking18

Varicose Veins18

Breathing Problems19

Tooth and Mouth Changes20

Skin Pigmentation and Moles20

Psychological and Physical Changes in Pregnant Women after Delivery20

Methodology21

Research Design21

Conclusion22

References23

Pregnancy: Physical and Psychological Changes in Women

Introduction

Pregnancy is the situation or case of being pregnant. It is the time period from starting to birth. After the fertilization of eggs by sperm, they fixed in the inside layer of the uterus and then they developed into embryo and placenta and after some time into a fetus. Usually the total duration of the pregnancy is 40 weeks and it is divided into three trimesters and each trimester last for three months. Pregnancy is an experience of change, growth, challenge and enrichment. During the total duration of pregnancy, the expectant mother faces several emotional, Psychological and physical changes in each trimester. Forthcoming parenthood may cause various psychological changes in the expectant mother. Hormonal changes, physical stress, coping with a changing shape of body, performing the daily routine work of family and children may influence the emotional equilibrium of the expectant mother. These emotional equilibriums include mood swings, being tensed and angry for no reason and being depressed consecutively. All these consequences are because of hormonal changes and physical changes in expectant mother (Christensen, Leach, and MacKinnon, 2010).

All these changes are normal and it is quite helpful to discuss every problem or query with the spouse or any other family member or with the friend. Incase these problems are disturbing the daily life then it is necessary for the expectant mother to consult with the doctor.If pregnancy causes stress and tension, then on the other hand it also gives the feelings of pride to the women that they are going to give birth to a baby. It brings the positivity in women which help them to cope with the problems of pregnancy (Barrett, and Fleming, 2011).

Aim of Research

The main aim of this research is to analyze physical and psychological changes in women during and after pregnancy.

Objectives of Research

The main objectives of this research paper are to elaborate

The physical changes during pregnancy

The psychological changes during pregnancy

Physical and psychological changes in women after delivery

Literature Review

According to Bodensteiner, Cain, Ray, and Hamula, (2006), pregnancy is an experience which is full of enrichment, challenge, growth and change. Pregnancy lasts for 40 weeks which includes various problems and changes in women's body as well as in her emotions. It is often observed that in days of pregnancy, expectant mother experiences several physical changes including weight gain, swelling of feet or the entire body. These physical changes may affect the psychological state of the expectant mother (Glover, and O'Connor, 2002).

Pregnant woman can get various information regarding pregnancy changes which includes changes in body shape ...