Mom's feelings & symptoms

Month 4

By the end of this month, some women can feel the baby moving inside. It will feel like butterflies in your abdomen, or a bubbling sensation. Often these first movements aren’t felt until the fifth month or week 20.

Linea Nigra
You may develop a dark line, called the linea nigra, down the center of your abdomen. This is caused by your body's increased production of the melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which makes the skin produce extra color. Use sunblock when out in sunshine. Do not try to bleach your skin. The darkness should disappear a few months after delivery

Oral hygiene
Your increased estrogen production during pregnancy “plump up” the vascular network of blood vessels in your mouth and nasal passages. You may notice a little blood when you brush your teeth, or blow your nose too hard. Although this is a normal response during pregnancy, your care and oral hygiene are important. Be certain to make an appointment for a check up with your dentist and follow a healthy regimen of brushing your teeth in the morning, after meals, and before bed. Regular flossing and care of your teeth and gums is especially in important in pregnancy.

Stuffy nose and nosebleeds
Your increased blood volume and hormonal activity can also lead to a stuffy nose or nosebleeds. Steam inhalation, like a warm shower, or humidified air may help reduce this nasal irritation. Avoid using decongestants or nasal sprays without talking to your clinician. Resist the temptation to blow your nose really hard or you may experience a nosebleed. Swelling in the sinuses sometimes causes cheek or eye pain and headaches.

If you get a nosebleed, lean forward and pinch the bridge of upper sides of your nose to stop the bleeding. Nosebleeds that occur frequently, or with excessive bleeding, or cannot be stopped after 15 minutes of pressure, require medical evaluation. Consult your health care provider immediately.