Pregnant Asian woman in bed, caressing her baby bump

Expecting? Congratulations! Becoming a parent is truly an enriching experience. Suddenly everyone is offering advice: eat healthily, listen to your doctor, enjoy the ride. As they wax poetic about the joys of pregnancy, they’re skipping over some of the more unsavory bits of the journey. If you’re one of the lucky few who are experiencing the brunt of prenatal symptoms, we feel you. It’s not easy. Apart from morning sickness signs, you’re going through so many physical and emotional adjustments. While we can’t help you with the throwing-up part, we have some tips to help you manage other prenatal challenges. 

So, read on. No matter what you’re going through, we’re here to hold your hand (virtually) through all these morning sickness signs. Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, and you’re beautiful, too! 

Your Skin Is a Mood

You might have heard of the so-called pregnancy glow, which can only be described as an expectant mother’s unexplainable radiance. You can’t tell what changed. Her hair looks the same, and her smile is the same. She just looks… shinier. There’s a science behind this phenomenon, and the answer is quite literal. According to the American Pregnancy Organization, one of the effects of the hormonal changes a woman endures during pregnancy is the overproduction of oil, which makes your face shinier. 

At one point, this shine can make you sparkle, but it can also cross over to slickness quickly, triggering another prenatal symptom, pregnancy acne. When you feel that your face is becoming excessively greasy, wash the oil away with your favorite and cleanser to manage the situation.

You’re Becoming Frazzled

Stress is common during pregnancy. Your hormones are unpredictable, and you’re going through a major life change, and, let’s face it, you’re suddenly confronted with the cost of raising another human being—from the crib to tuition fees. What's more, based on the study “The Stress of Pregnancy” published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada, there’s proof that a stress-free pregnancy leads to the best outcomes for both mom and baby.

Being relaxed is always easier said than done. Try employing to manage your anxiety. Surround yourself with positivity or get plenty of sleep. While the benefits of diffusing essential oils during pregnancy are controversial, you can do the next best thing. Breathe in the soothing with Dove Relaxing Lavender Body Wash. This creamy body wash is formulated with oils like lavender and chamomile, which have been proven to calm and uplift the mood. 

Your Hair Has Become Lifeless

Hair tends to take a toll during the entire pregnancy process. You might experience hair fall, or your hair texture could change entirely! Your wild hormones can either give your tresses extra bounce or leave them limp. 

Bestselling pregnancy bible What to Expect When You’re Expecting says that these changes are usually not permanent. Dry and flat hair could be a sign that your hair is thirsty for nutrients. After all, you’re sharing your body with someone else! Still, drink your prenatal vitamins and support your hair with some extra love. TRESemmé Detox & Nourish Shampoo has a nourishing formula to help you maintain healthy, shiny hair. Free from parabens and dyes, this shampoo is infused with natural ingredients such as ginger and green tea. 

Your Teeth Are Becoming More Cavity Prone

A study done at the University of Oregon states that women are predisposed to cavities and other oral issues because of, you guessed it, hormones! At this point, apart from morning sickness signs, you can expect that your unpredictable prenatal hormones will be targeting your teeth, too. What's more, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also notes that pregnant women are at a higher risk for cavities due to changes in behaviors, including eating habits. 

You deserve the occasional donut, of course, but don’t forget to brush your teeth properly after. Review your toothbrushing techniques and use a powerful toothpaste that can eliminate cavity-causing bacteria. Try closeup All Around Fresh Soothing Menthol Toothpaste. It has zinc mouthwash as well as fluoride and silica to really get in there and clean your teeth and gums.

Morning sickness signs and other prenatal symptoms may not make you feel like the glowing expectant mother people expect you to be. Still, every pregnancy and every pregnant woman are different. Whatever you’re going through, however, your hormones decide to act, you’re brave and beautiful for going through these changes. What matters is that you’re taking care of yourself, and that will set you up to become an awesome parent.