How does a woman's body change during pregnancy? Pregnancy is not an illness
Pregnancy is a time when the body demonstrates its enormous potential for transformation. We owe this to nature, as it's normal for the body to adapt to the new situation so that a woman can give birth on her own without medical intervention.
As a specialist in urogynecological physiotherapy, I would like to shed some light on the enormity of the changes taking place in the body of a pregnant woman and show what extraordinary feats this body performs.
Physiological changes during pregnancy
How does the uterus grow?
The uterus begins to grow almost from the very beginning of pregnancy, although in the early stages, its growth is usually minimal and difficult to notice. Uterine growth becomes more noticeable and measurable from around the 6th to 8th week of pregnancy.
How quickly does the uterus grow, leaving less and less room for the digestive system? It looks like this:
- 16 weeks – the uterus grows to a height of two fingers above the pubic symphysis,
- 20 weeks– this is already two fingers below the navel,
- 24 weeks – the fundus of the uterus is at the level of the navel,
- 28 weeks – the uterus reaches two fingers above the navel,
- 32 weeks – the uterus is halfway between the navel and the xiphoid process of the sternum,
- 36 weeks – the uterus reaches the costal arches.
This is the point where growth ends and decline begins. This is the time when many women can finally take a full, deep breath.
What happens to the internal organs during pregnancy?
As the uterus grows week by week, it requires more and more space; most organs must yield, shift their position slightly, and undergo compression. For uterine growth to proceed smoothly, the organs must have room to "spread out." However, this isn't always possible, or can be very difficult. There are many factors that hinder the uterus's free growth.
During a body analysis of a pregnant woman during a physiotherapy consultation, the following are checked: ankle mobility, pelvic position and its mobility, rib mobility, the state of tension of the linea alba and its mobility, the quality of movement of the sternum, and even the occiput and collarbones.
Clavicle mobility matters!
The growing uterus must push down on the organs. The rising respiratory diaphragm will give way to the lungs, which in turn will impact the lungs, as they must also find a place to function. A properly and fully mobile sternum will create this opportunity, and if it is to move properly during breathing, free elevation of the collarbones will be essential. This cascade of changes continues until approximately the 36th week of pregnancy.
Unfortunately, not all of these elements are always fully mobile, and may be the result of previous diseases or injuries, but they can cause certain complications during pregnancy.
For example, the pressure of a seat belt during a car accident or a history of pneumonia may immobilize the sternum, which, without the ability to rise, will restrict the free upward growth of the uterus, which in turn will cause the abdomen to be positioned low.
Scarring from appendectomy or chronic constipation can limit the mobility of the ribs on the right side and cause a reduction in the mobility of the right kidney.
There are many more such examples.
The mobility of organs can significantly affect the course of pregnancy, but also the delivery itself.
How does the body change after childbirth? Childbirth…and what's next?
After childbirth, the uterus naturally returns to its previous size. The organs should also return to their proper positions. However, this doesn't always happen; sometimes the lowest-lying organs, such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum, descend.
If the bladder is lowered, it most often leads to urinary urgency and various forms of incontinence or recurring bladder infections.
When the mobility of the uterus is impaired, the consequence may be painful periods or painful intercourse.
If a similar situation occurs in the rectum, it may lead to hemorrhoids , coccyx pain or constipation.
How to treat impaired organ mobility?
Urogynecological physiotherapy plays a key role in treating impaired pelvic floor mobility, particularly in the pelvic area. This therapy focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which is essential for improving bladder control and sexual function. Exercises such as pelvic floor muscle training are often used to reduce the symptoms of urinary incontinence and other dysfunctions. A urogynecological physiotherapist can also use manual techniques to improve the mobility and flexibility of the pelvic organs. Patient education on proper posture and daily habits is also crucial and should not be neglected, as it supports the healing process.
Stefan Tabin, M.A.
Physiotherapist specializing
in urogynecological physiotherapy
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
Is pregnancy an illness?
No. Pregnancy is a natural state in which a woman's body gradually adapts to the baby's development and prepares for childbirth. However, it's important to have regular checkups with your doctor.
How does a woman's body change during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the uterus expands, the position of internal organs changes, and the function of the diaphragm, ribs, pelvis, and pelvic floor muscles changes. The body adapts to the growing baby and prepares for birth.
When does the uterus start growing during pregnancy?
The uterus begins to grow almost from the beginning of pregnancy, but its growth usually becomes more noticeable around weeks 6–8. In the following weeks, it gradually takes up more space in the abdominal cavity.
What happens to the internal organs during pregnancy?
The growing uterus requires more and more space, which causes some organs to shift position and become compressed. This can affect breathing, digestion, posture, and daily functioning, among other things.
Why is body mobility important during pregnancy?
Good mobility of the pelvis, ribs, sternum, diaphragm, and other tissues can support the body's adaptation to the growing uterus. Restricted mobility can exacerbate tension, discomfort, and some pregnancy symptoms.
How does breathing change during pregnancy?
The growing uterus lifts the diaphragm and changes the way the lungs function. Later in pregnancy, some women experience difficulty breathing deeply, but as their abdomen drops, they may feel more comfortable breathing.
What happens to the body after childbirth?
After giving birth, the uterus gradually returns to its previous size, and the organs should return to their proper place. However, some women may experience symptoms such as urinary incontinence, urgency, constipation, or pain.
When is it worth seeing a urogynecological physiotherapist?
A consultation can be helpful for pelvic pain, back pain, breathing problems, urinary incontinence, constipation, a feeling of organ prolapse, pain during intercourse or difficulty getting back into shape after childbirth.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.