Pregnancy, while lasting only about 40 weeks, creates changes that can impact a woman’s body for a lifetime. As mothers welcome their newborns, they also face numerous transformations in their own health—many of which remain understudied. Dr. Natalie Ann Bello, director of hypertension research at the Smidt Heart Institute, is determined to change that. Her work at the intersection of cardiology and obstetrics sheds light on the connections between pregnancy and heart health.

Understanding Pregnancy Symptoms by Trimester

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each bringing distinct symptoms and bodily changes.

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)

  • Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)
  • Fatigue
  • Breast tenderness
  • Frequent urination
  • Mood swings

During this time, the body undergoes hormonal shifts, increasing progesterone and estrogen levels to support the developing baby. These changes may cause dizziness, headaches, and heightened emotional sensitivity.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)

  • Increased appetite
  • Visible baby bump
  • Back pain
  • Skin changes, including darkening of the nipples and stretch marks
  • Feeling fetal movements (quickening)

This trimester is often considered the most comfortable as nausea decreases and energy levels improve. However, some women experience leg cramps, constipation, and swelling.

Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40)

  • Shortness of breath
  • Frequent urination due to the baby pressing on the bladder
  • Swollen feet and hands
  • Heartburn
  • Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor pains)

The body prepares for labor by loosening ligaments, causing pelvic discomfort. Sleep may become difficult due to the baby’s movements and increased pressure on the spine.

How Pregnancy Affects the Body

Beyond the well-known symptoms, pregnancy has profound long-term effects on various systems of the body:

  • Cardiovascular System: Blood volume increases by 30-50% to support the baby, leading to increased heart workload. Some women develop high blood pressure, which can persist postpartum.
  • Endocrine System: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes.
  • Musculoskeletal System: The shift in the body’s center of gravity often leads to back pain and changes in posture.
  • Immune System: Pregnancy weakens the immune system to prevent rejection of the fetus, making women more susceptible to infections.

The Relationship Between Pregnancy and Heart Health

The United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, with cardiovascular disease now the leading cause of death during pregnancy. Dr. Bello explains that pregnancy acts as a “stress test” for the body, sometimes unmasking underlying heart conditions. High blood pressure and diabetes—both rising among pregnant individuals—are key contributors to heart complications during and after pregnancy.

Pregnancy-Related Heart Conditions:

  • Preeclampsia: A condition characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, increasing stroke risk.
  • Gestational Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure during pregnancy, which can persist postpartum.
  • Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: A rare but severe form of heart failure occurring in late pregnancy or after delivery.

Women who experience pregnancy complications are at greater risk for heart disease later in life. Dr. Bello urges women to discuss their pregnancy history with their doctors to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and other cardiovascular markers.

Best Practices for a Healthy Pregnancy

To minimize risks and promote well-being, healthcare experts recommend the following:

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet

  • Eat nutrient-dense foods such as leafy greens, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid to support fetal development.
  • Stay hydrated and limit caffeine intake.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (e.g., walking, swimming, prenatal yoga).
  • Avoid high-impact or risky activities that could lead to falls or injuries.

3. Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar

  • Regular prenatal visits help track changes in blood pressure and glucose levels.
  • Women at risk for gestational hypertension or diabetes may require additional testing and dietary modifications.

4. Get Adequate Rest and Manage Stress

  • Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent bedtime and using supportive pillows.
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation.
  • Seek emotional support from family, friends, or professional counselors.

Expert Advice on Postpartum Care

Postpartum recovery is just as crucial as pregnancy itself. Many women are discharged from hospitals within days of giving birth, but their health risks don’t end there.

Key Postpartum Health Tips:

  • Continue monitoring blood pressure, especially if preeclampsia was present.
  • Watch for warning signs like persistent headaches, vision changes, or excessive swelling.
  • Stay active, but ease into exercise gradually to avoid strain on healing muscles.

Dr. Bello also emphasizes the role of telehealth in postpartum monitoring, including wearable devices that track blood pressure in real time. These innovations help detect early warning signs of complications before they become life-threatening.

Pregnancy is a transformative period that affects a woman’s body in profound ways. While many changes are temporary, others—especially those related to heart health—can have lasting consequences. Women should advocate for their health by staying informed, attending regular checkups, and discussing any pregnancy-related complications with their doctors. With continued research and policy improvements, healthcare professionals like Dr. Bello are working toward a future where all women receive the care they need during and after pregnancy.