Swelling (or edema) in your hands, legs and feet is normal from around 20 weeks of pregnancy, usually disappearing shortly after labour. It is generally caused by excess fluid in your body tissue, although increased blood volume to support your baby

Congrats, you're pregnant! You may experience a healthy glow, unusual cravings and, er, an increased amount of discharge 'down there'. But don't worry, you're not alone.What causes it?In the first trimester, your hormones cause the cervix and vaginal wall to become softer, increa...

serious. If you’re feeling unwell and experiencing pain in your abdomen, you may have an illness unrelated to pregnancy, such as kidney stones, appendicitis or a urinary tract infection.But if you’re bleeding and the cramps are sharp, it might be the first

extra care over what you eat.“Pregnancy affects your immune system, making you and your unborn baby more susceptible to bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause illnesses,” says our midwife, Anne Richley. “Even if you don’t feel unwell, food

, resulting in the production of antibodies. First born babies are not usually affected; however the disease can have implications during future pregnancies because of the production of antibodies." What does this condition mean for mum and baby?Christina K. h

Obese or overweight women are more likely to develop health complications during pregnancy, new research out today has revealed.The study found that their risk of gestational diabetes was increased four-fold and they were also three times as likely

It’s not just your middle that grows during pregnancy. Thanks to the hormone changes in your body, your breasts may grow as much as four cup sizes, too. So a good bra is essential for both comfort and support. Thankfully, these days a maternity bra

alkaline. This can be because of perfumed feminine products, semen and your menstrual cycle. Two in three women misdiagnose BV as thrush so it's important to know the signs and not confuse it with other pregnancy discharge.The classic symptoms are

Post-pregnancy varicose veins are being misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated by doctors, according to Mr Mark Whiteley of The Whiteley Clinic.According to Mark, problem veins on the thighs and lower legs in new mums who have had a vaginal birth

Your body has a great deal to cope with during pregnancy so naturally there are some changes that may take you by surprise - including a hairy belly or the appearance of a dark vertical line on your stomach. But there is no need to be alarmed