Hormones During Pregnancy

Most of us know that hormones play a big role during pregnancy, but how do they actually affect us and why does it matter?

There is an increase of 3 main hormones during pregnancy and they all have a different effect on the body:

1: Progesterone

• Relaxes muscle tone

• Aids breast development

• Increases body temperature

2: Oestrogen

• Aids uterus growth

3: Relaxin

• Relaxes ligaments in preparation for birth

• Relaxin only increases after 8 weeks of being pregnant

These increases in hormones cause significant changes to the body during pregnancy. An increased laxity in the pelvic joints can contribute to pain during pregnancy, especially with the added weight of baby. Posture is also affected by hormonal changes, breast development and changes to muscle tone can influence the way you hold yourself and the way you walk.