Each of us has a unique journey to motherhood, and pregnancy can be beautiful, bewildering, and downright daunting at times! We get it. Kindred Bravely is grateful to share what you need to know about one of the most meaningful times in your life. Welcome to our blog series about pregnancy.

Early Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy

As the body prepares for pregnancy (aka supporting gestation for 40 weeks), significant changes occur. Although some people report no symptoms of pregnancy early on, many expectant moms experience these symptoms in the first six weeks of pregnancy.

I Missed My Period. Am I Having a Baby?

A missed period can be a sign of pregnancy, but there can be many other explanations. According to University of Michigan Health, other causes of missed periods include emotional stress, exercise, travel, illness, medications, other drugs, and changes in weight.

Tender Breasts and Nipples

When you’re pregnant, your body is flooded with hormones, your blood flow increases, and you start retaining fluids. Your breasts begin to expand and may feel swollen, sore, and sensitive as they prepare for lactation. It can be quite uncomfortable, but it’s completely normal. Maternity bras with extra support and comfort built in can make a real difference in your daily life over the next 9 months. We recommend our ultra-comfortable Sublime Adjustable Crossover Bra!

What’s THAT Smell?

According to Brenna McGuire, MD, along with a missed period and tender breasts, initial symptoms can include a heightened sense of smell. If it seems like your favorite perfume is suddenly overpowering or you unexpectedly delight in the aroma of freshly steamed vegetables, you might be experiencing one of the earliest signs of pregnancy.   

Increased Vaginal Discharge (Cervical Mucus)

The cervix produces a clear fluid with a gel-like consistency. When the fluid turns “milky white,” it may indicate pregnancy, although there are many other reasons for changes in the color of discharge. “The amount of cervical fluid during pregnancy increases and turns into something called the mucus plug over time. This mucus plug protects the fetus from infections and breaks down during delivery,” according to Anna Targonskaya, MD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and Medical Advisor.

Feeling Pressure?

One of the most common complaints is a sensation of pressure in the lower abdomen. After fertilization, the egg travels through the fallopian tubes and implants itself in the uterus. During this process, blood flow moves everything along, and the lining of your uterus gets thicker to secure the embryo. Some cramping may result, especially if this is your first pregnancy.

Implantation Spotting

When the egg implants itself in the wall of the uterus, some minor bleeding may occur. There is no cause for alarm. According to the Mayo Clinic’s Yvonne Butler Tobah, MD, some people experience it and others don’t. She notes that this bleeding can be mistaken for a light period.

Got Metallics?

Whether you’re a fan of dramatic molten metallic eyes or a lover of the acclaimed metal band Metallica, not even metalheads like this pregnancy symptom: metallic taste. Dysgeusia, also known as taste buds gone wild, culminates after several weeks of raging hormones preparing you to bring a beautiful life into the world.

To get rid of the taste of pennies in your mouth, Robyn Horsager-Boehrer, MD, of UTSW Medical Center recommends that you “banish that metallic taste with acids such as citrus juices like lemonade, or foods marinated in vinegar.” 

Buckle Up…

The past few weeks have been a warm-up for what’s to come.  We encourage you to listen to your body and rest when you feel fatigued. Stop counting the number of times you go to the bathroom – keep the fluids flowing to stay hydrated and help your kidneys flush out waste.  

Baby on Board

After the embryo implants into the womb or uterine wall, it begins to develop and grow. According to University of Michigan Health, at birth, full-term babies normally weigh 5.5 pounds to 10 pounds and measure 18 inches to 22 inches in length. We’ll take a closer look at your baby’s development in future blogs.

What to Wear This Week

In the early weeks of pregnancy, you may notice your clothes are beginning to feel a little snug. Though you’re probably not showing – especially if it’s your first pregnancy – fluid retention may be making you feel swollen. Many pregnant people choose loose-fitting clothing made from soft fabrics that easily stretch instead of form-fitting apparel that can cling or feel tight.

Want to be active during pregnancy? Our award-winning Sublime® Nursing Sports Bra was designed for active moms. Perfect for lower-impact activities like yoga and hiking, this sleek nursing sports bra is made from moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable throughout your pregnancy.

If you want to be comfortable while looking cute, check out our award-winning Everyday Lounge Joggers. These lightweight, stretchy, and super-soft lounge pants have a drawstring waistband that adjusts throughout your entire pregnancy, making them your go-to pants for when you’re out and about meeting friends for tea or putting the kettle on at home. 

The 2-in-1 Nursing & Maternity Knit Midi Dress is our choice for effortless glamor and versatility. You’ll feel stylish and chic in this two-piece dress that you can wear year-round. This premium nursing and maternity set features a detachable cropped shrug top over a super-stretchy knit maternity tank dress that is ideal during pregnancy and postpartum – simply pull down the neckline for easy nursing access. The ultimate in style, comfort, and function!

What’s Next?

Follow along with our blog series to see what to expect next in your pregnancy. We’re excited to be growing on this journey with you! 

Great resource alert! The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology’s month-by-month Pregnancy Changes infographic is available for download.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please reach out to your health care team with any questions.