Surprising Things You Didn't Know Could Happen in Pregnancy

PREGNANCY SECRET #1: Bacne
Even if you’ve never had problems with acne before, that can all change when you get pregnant. And if you thought pimples on your face were annoying, brace yourself: Back breakouts are common for moms-to-be. The good news is that this is just from hormones and won’t last forever. Talk to your doctor about potential acne cleansers. While most over-the-counter products by, say, Neutrogena or Clearasil, are fine, vitamin-A based treatments, such as Accutane, can cause birth defects.

PREGNANCY SECRET #2: Shedding
Noticing extra hairs on the couch after watching TV? Don’t blame the dog! The fact is, you’ll be the one losing some hair, especially right before giving birth. It might be a little freaky at first, but relax: This almost always happens (and you won’t go bald).

PREGNANCY SECRET #3: Varicose veins
Warning: This pregnancy surprise isn’t for the faint of heart. So before you ask any questions, let me just say this: vulva and vagina (and you thought these bubbly veins only popped up on legs). Basically what happens is all the extra progesterone flowing through you causes your blood vessels to relax. Add that to your uterus bulging outward and causing pressure, and, well, you’ve got a recipe for the double-V. On the plus side, they tend to get better postbaby.

PREGNANCY SECRET #4: Birthgasms
Okay, so when you hear the term “labor,” chances are you don’t conjure up a slew of sexy images. But get this: It’s actually possible to have an orgasm during birth. Let’s just say that the same areas are stimulated when a baby comes out as when something else goes in. If a delivery room “O” sounds like your idea of a good time (hey, you never know), just don’t get your hopes up too much—such instances are rare.

POSTPREGNANCY BONUS SECRET: Squirting boobs
So you got pregnant, had the baby, and now the coast is clear, right? Not quite. If you choose to breastfeed, your boobs will become very sensitive to any touch—including your partner’s. So don’t be surprised (or embarrassed) if you two are getting it on and the next thing you know, there’s milk on the sheets. I know, I know—it’s not the sexiest image ever. But then again, if your partner was there during the delivery, they’ve seen far worse.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.