Usual and unusual pregnancy symptoms

As the CEO of Les Enfants, a brand created to support families through every stage of parenthood, I wanted to share a bit of my personal experience, especially because pregnancy symptoms can vary so much and often bring anxiety, questions, and even a little shock.

I’m now a mother of three wonderful children: Amanda (2014), Lukas (2016), and Mathias (2020). Looking back at my pregnancies, each was unique, and I experienced both common and unusual symptoms. Here are a few:

Heightened Allergies

I had only mild hay fever, but during my pregnancies it got significantly worse. In Brazil, I wasn’t allowed to take medication for relief, but in Sweden, fortunately, there were no restrictions, and I could manage it with my usual allergy medicine.

Nosebleeds

I occasionally had nosebleeds due to dryness, but during my last pregnancy, they became more frequent and somewhat annoying (though harmless).

Heartburn

It appeared early on and came back whenever I overate, which, in a way, was a helpful reminder to watch my portions.

Weight Gain

I always advise other moms to try to keep weight gain within a reasonable range… but I know how difficult it is!
By week 30 of my last pregnancy, I had gained 20 kg. I was as shocked as anyone when I saw that number, even though I had returned to healthy eating after the holidays. Extra weight really slows you down, walking, moving, even simple tasks feel heavier. If you can stay within a healthy range, it’s worth it for your comfort during and after pregnancy.

Food Cravings

During this pregnancy, I didn’t have any particular cravings. But in my first viable pregnancy, I spent months searching for a duck confit my mom had at a restaurant in New York when I was 10 weeks pregnant… I never found it in Stockholm, so I learned to make it myself. I still dream of going back to that original restaurant one day!

Pregnancy can be full of surprises, both common and unusual. What about you? Did you have any unexpected symptoms? Sharing makes the journey a little lighter for all of us.