9 facts about pregnancy that you may not know

Pregnancy proceeds in an individual way for each woman. But one thing is for sure – at this stage of your life you not only understand new things about your body, but you also go through internal transformations. Quite naturally, you begin to form some instincts and prepare for your first meeting with the baby.

Here we share with you some interesting facts related to this period that you might not know.

1. The Amazing Role of the Placenta
The placenta is a temporary organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the embryo while returning unnecessary substances to the baby back to the mother.

The placenta produces huge amounts of estrogen and progesterone needed during pregnancy. In addition, this organ processes toxins and neutralizes viruses and bacteria to protect the baby from infections.

2. Causes of “glowing” skin
It is the result of hormonal changes and stretching of the skin in pregnancy. During these 9 months, there is an increase in the volume of blood that is sent to the uterus and to the other organs, including the kidneys. This leads to a greater blood supply to the skin and increased secretion on its surface, which creates the visible effect of “glow”.

3. Your heart beats for two
During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by up to 50% as your heart pumps more blood to provide oxygen and nutrients for the baby. This causes the size of your heart to increase.

4.Keeping calm makes your baby more resilient to stress
High stress during pregnancy can increase cortisol levels in your baby, leading to problems such as birth complications or low birth weight. So it’s essential for you to regulate your stress levels and pay attention to your mental health.

However, if the postpartum environment is more conducive, the baby’s nervous system can recover and overcome the susceptibility to stress.

5. Skin adapts to baby’s growth
Gradual changes in weight and stretching of the skin lead to the appearance of stretch marks on the thighs, abdomen and chest, especially in the second trimester. To keep your skin supple and feeling comfortable, it’s a good idea to take care of it from the beginning of pregnancy and up to three months after giving birth.

For sensitive skin, choosing the right cosmetics is essential. Maternea’s combination of oil and anti-stretch mark cream provides gentle care without causing adverse reactions. The active ingredients restore the skin’s barrier function and restore its comfort.

6. Unwanted skin discoloration occurs
Hormonal changes during pregnancy also include hyperpigmentation in the navel area, areolae of the breasts, around the intimate area and the line running through the middle of the abdomen, as well as the appearance of pigment spots on the face. This darkening is also known as the ‘mask of pregnancy’.

Establishing a good routine prepares your skin and makes it resistant to the coming changes. Daily use of Maternea Intimate Gel will provide you with the hydration and protection you need for this delicate area. And the nipple balm has a positive effect on restoring the condition of the nipples and areola.

7. Your eating habits influence your baby’s taste preferences
According to some studies, what you eat during pregnancy can influence your baby’s preference for certain tastes after birth.

For example: one study showed that babies exposed to bitter tastes in the womb showed positive reactions to similar tastes when they were three weeks old.

8. Hormonal changes in your body
Hormonal changes lead to a higher body temperature and speed up your metabolism. Towards the end of pregnancy, the pituitary gland starts secreting oxytocin, which starts the birthing process. After the baby comes into the world, prolactin is released in your body, which stimulates milk production from the mammary glands.

9. The appearance of a nesting instinct indicates that labor is approaching
The “nesting instinct” is a common occurrence in many pregnant women in the weeks before giving birth. It expresses itself in the form of a burst of energy and an irrepressible creative urge. It includes a variety of activities related to the strong need to tidy, clean and decorate the home in anticipation of the baby.

Your body goes through amazing changes during pregnancy that are sometimes hard to imagine. But these changes are part of the miracle of life. With Maternea products, you can take care of your skin so it stays in great condition during this special time for you.