Things they don't tell you about your pregnant body

• You may get constipated. Why? The progesterone relaxes your muscles. What can I do about it? Move more, drink water, eat small meals and increase your fiber intake

• You may get congested. Why? Oestrogen causes the mucous membranes in your nose to swell along with everything else, so it can cause congestion and even nosebleeds.

• Leg cramps. Why? They come from compressed blood vessels. What can I do about it? Flex your foot upwards and straighten your leg like you’re going to touch your shin with your big toe

• Restless leg syndrome. Why? No one is exactly sure. What can I do about it? Stretching, warms baths, acupuncture and massage seem to be the suggested remedies

• Bigger feet. Why? Relaxin relaxes the ligaments in your body – including your feet – so they spread out. Your body is also retaining fluids and, to over simplify it, those fluids tend to pool at the bottom of your body (namely your feet) so they puff up. What can I do about it? Not a lot but they will go down. If it comes on suddenly though, get it checked out as could be a sign of pre-eclampsia

• Bleeding gums. Why? Progesterone is the culprit. What can I do about it? This is a fairly common side effect of pregnancy and isn’t cause for concern. However, do take the NHS up on their free dental care during pregnancy!

• Itchy skin. Why? Stretching and oestrogen are often to blame. What can I do about it? Lower the temperature in your shower, moisturise, and try not to use harsh soaps, etc.

• Keener sense of smell. Why? It’s caused by oestrogen and can really wreak havoc on your gag reflex exacerbating morning sickness

Yep our bodies can do quite disgusting things, but it's just for a few months and at the end of it, it produces the most wonderful of things - life! So in most cases, you just have to suck it up I'm afraid!