What to Expect When You're Expecting

How Pregnancy Affects Your Body and Mind

Pregnancy is one of life’s most profound experiences, an incredible journey that transforms not just your body, but your mind, your routines, and maybe even your snack drawer. Whether this is your first pregnancy or your fourth, every time is a little different.

That said, there are a few tell-tale changes and symptoms that most people experience at some stage. And while some are talked about more than others (hello, morning sickness), we’re here to cover the full picture.

The Early Days: Symptoms That Sneak Up on You

Sometimes, pregnancy announces itself with fireworks. Other times, it tiptoes in quietly, more fatigue, slightly sore breasts, a little queasy feeling that comes and goes.

Here are a few common early signs:

• Fatigue: In those first few weeks, your body is working overtime, even if you’re not showing yet. Behind the scenes, it’s building the placenta (your baby’s lifeline), ramping up hormone production, especially progesterone, and increasing your blood volume to support your growing baby. It’s completely normal to feel like you could fall asleep standing up. Your body is prioritising the pregnancy, which can leave you feeling drained no matter how much rest you get. Don’t fight it, listen to your body, rest when you can, and know that this deep tiredness usually eases by the second trimester.

  
  

• Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and Vomiting: Also known (ironically) as “morning sickness,” this can strike at any time of day. Some women feel mild nausea; others have a rougher time. The good news? It usually eases by the second trimester. Experts believe it's linked to rising hormone levels, particularly hCG, which peak around weeks 9 to 11. Eating small, frequent meals and keeping crackers by the bed can sometimes help take the edge off.

  
  

• Tender Breasts: Hormonal shifts can make your chest feel swollen, sensitive, or just plain sore. Wearing soft, well-fitting bras, especially during exercise or at night, can ease discomfort and reduce unnecessary pressure. Staying hydrated and applying a warm compress may also help soothe tenderness as your body finds its balance.

  
  

• Mood Swings: Thanks, hormones! You might find yourself crying at a cat food commercial or suddenly feeling irritated for no clear reason. Be kind to yourself, this is totally normal.Hormonal fluctuations can affect the brain’s chemistry, making emotions feel bigger, faster, and harder to predict. Giving yourself grace, staying connected to people who understand, and finding small ways to ground yourself, like a walk, a deep breath, or even a good laugh - can make a big difference.

Further Reading: Exercising Safely and Confidently During Pregnancy

Body, Meet Baby: Physical Changes You Might Not Expect

As pregnancy progresses, your body changes in beautiful (and sometimes weird) ways to support your growing baby. Some of these changes are exciting, like that first flutter of movement, but others might catch you off guard.

• Food Aversions & Cravings: You might go off your favorite coffee or develop a sudden craving for pickles and ice cream. No judgment, follow your instincts and aim for balance. Taking pregnancy vitamins can help you fill in any nutritional gaps and support your body.

  
  

• Bloating and Constipation: Not the most glamorous side of pregnancy, but common due to hormonal changes slowing down digestion. Drinking plenty of water and eating fibre can help.

  
  

• Frequent Urination: Your body is producing more fluids, and your growing uterus starts pressing on your bladder. Yes, you’ll probably know where every bathroom is by week 10.

  
  

• Skin Changes: Some people get a glow, others get breakouts or experience darkening of the skin. It’s all part of the process. This is all down to hormonal shifts, but one simple way to support your skin is by staying hydrated. Drinking enough water helps your body flush out toxins, keeps your skin cells plump, and can even reduce dryness or itchiness, especially as your body temperature rises during pregnancy. 

Read More: Exercising Safely and Confidently During Pregnancy

Mind Matters: Emotional Ups and Downs

Pregnancy doesn’t just affect your body, it stirs up all kinds of emotions too. Some days you’ll feel blissed out and deeply connected to the life inside you. Other days might bring worry, overwhelm, or even sadness.

• Anxiety About the Future: You’re preparing for a huge life change, it’s natural to feel a little uncertain. Try to stay present and give yourself permission to take things one day at a time. There’s no manual for becoming a parent, and it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Talking to loved ones, journaling your thoughts, or even setting small goals for the week can help ease that sense of overwhelm.

  
  

• Excitement and Attachment: Many women feel a growing bond with their baby even before birth. Ultrasound scans, kicks, and hearing the heartbeat can make it all feel wonderfully real. You might find yourself daydreaming about names, decorating the nursery, or imagining your baby’s little face, and that emotional connection is both beautiful and completely natural. For some, the bond takes time to build, and that’s okay too, every journey is different, and there’s no “right” timeline.

  
  

• Mood Fluctuations: If emotions feel intense or hard to manage, talk to someone. Your midwife, GP or a counselor can offer support. Hormonal changes can magnify everyday feelings, making small things feel big, and big things feel enormous. What matters most is recognising when you’re struggling and knowing there’s no shame in asking for help, it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

You’re Still You, Just Evolving

It’s easy to feel like pregnancy takes over your entire identity. And yes, a lot is changing. But you’re still you, just navigating a new chapter. Let yourself rest when you need it, laugh when things feel absurd, and celebrate the little wins (like managing to keep breakfast down!).

When to Reach Out

Some symptoms are completely normal, while others may need a bit more attention. Always reach out to your healthcare provider if something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s severe cramping, spotting, intense nausea, or emotional struggles. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your health or your baby’s.

Give Yourself Grace

Pregnancy isn’t always easy, but it is extraordinary. Your body is doing something absolutely magical, and while it may feel like a rollercoaster at times, you’re not alone. Talk to other mums. Ask questions. Rest. Hydrate. And trust that you are doing beautifully, even on the tough days.