Although the female s breasts develop in puberty, the glandular tissue that produces milk do not completely develop until the woman becomes pregnant. As the levels of estrogen and other hormones change during pregnancy, the expectant mother s breasts change. They enlarge, veins are often more prominent, and a tingling sensation is often felt in the nipples. The expectant mother may also need to urinate more frequently as the enlarging uterus puts increases pressure on the bladder. In addition, her vagina and cervix become bluish in color, the cervix becomes softer, and vaginal secretions increase.
Emotional changes accompany physical changes in the early months of pregnancy.
It is not unusual for the expectant mother to experience emotional ups and downs. The thought of motherhood may at times be pleasing and, at others, disturbing. She may cry easily. Such mood swings may be difficult to understand, for both the expectant mother and her partner. Sharing thoughts and feelings with each other can help expectant couples develop a closer relationship during the transition of parenthood.