Hey beautiful people!
It’s your girl Lovetti Lafua, and today we’re diving into something every mama-to-be has wondered (probably more than once):
“Is this normal?”

Pregnancy is magical, empowering, and life-changing but let’s be honest, it can also feel like your body is doing the absolute MOST. From swollen ankles to surprise skin changes, weird cravings to wild emotions it is a full on transformation. And sometimes, you just need a sister to tell you what’s up.

So let’s break it down what’s common, what’s worth watching, and what’s part of that glow-up journey. Let’s get into it, sis 💁🏾‍♀️✨

Digestive Drama: Bloat, Burps & Nausea, Oh My!

Hormones like progesterone slow your digestion wayyy down. Add in a growing uterus pressing on your stomach, and suddenly, nausea, bloating, and heartburn become daily guests at the table.

Lovetti’s Tips:

• Small meals throughout the day
• Ginger tea or peppermint for nausea
• Sleep elevated with extra pillows

Your digestive system is going through it, but with a little support, you can feel like yourself again (ish).

Bathroom Business: Pee Breaks & Constipation

Girl, you’ll be running to the bathroom like it’s your second home. Between hormones and your baby using your bladder as a bean bag, frequent peeing is par for the course.

You might also face:

• Constipation (from slower digestion)
• Hemorrhoids (thanks to pressure and straining)

How to handle it:

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
• Load up on fiber
• Don’t be shy about stool softeners (your doc can recommend a safe one)

Swollen & Puffy? That’s Your Circulation Working Overtime

Up to 50% more blood is pumping through your body while pregnant—no wonder your hands, feet, and ankles get a little puffy. As long as the swelling settles with rest, you’re okay.

Lovetti’s Glow-Up Tip:
Prop your feet up, soak them in cool water, and rock those fluffy socks or compression socks. You’re still cute, swollen feet and all!

Skin Changes on Melanin-Rich Skin (Let’s Talk Science & Realness)

This one’s personal, sis. Black and Brown skin goes through very real changes in pregnancy some beautiful, some tricky. And yes, our skin needs its own kind of love.

You might notice:

• Melasma: Dark patches on your face (thanks, hormones!)
• Linea Nigra: That dark line down your tummy
• Stretch Marks: On your belly, hips, boobs, and thighs
• Varicose Veins: Swollen, twisted veins, usually on the legs

Why It Happens:

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone affect melanin production, especially in melanated skin. That’s why we’re more prone to pigmentation during pregnancy.

My Personal Skincare Routine:

• SPF every. single. day. Even indoors! I use mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide.
• Shea butter and vitamin E oil for moisture
• Hyaluronic acid serum for hydration
• No harsh scrubs—treat your skin like royalty 👑

Stretch marks? Listen, some of us get them, some don’t—but staying hydrated and moisturized does help your skin stay more elastic.

What’s Going On In Your Mouth?

Pregnancy hormones can make your gums swell or bleed, and you might suddenly hate foods you used to love.

Did You Know?
You get free NHS dental care during pregnancy and for a year after birth don’t skip it!

Braxton Hicks: Baby’s Warm-Up Routine

These little practice contractions are totally normal and usually painless. They come and go, and your body’s just rehearsing for the big day.

But!
If they get regular, painful, or come with bleeding or discharge, don’t guess—call your midwife or GP immediately.

When to Call the Doctor: Red Flags to Watch For

Okay sis, we’re not here to panic but we are here to stay informed. These are signs that something may need medical attention ASAP:

🚨 Preterm labor signs:
Bleeding, cramping, watery discharge, or regular contractions

🚨 Burning when you pee:
Could be a UTI, and that needs treatment

🚨 Swelling that won’t go away:
Especially in your hands or face (watch for preeclampsia)

🚨 Severe pain or headaches
Especially with visual changes, or pain in the upper belly

🚨 Breathlessness at rest

🚨 One leg looking or feeling different
Swelling, pain, warmth or darkness could be a sign of a clot

Remember: Redness isn’t always visible on Black and Brown skinit may show as darker patches instead.

Final Thoughts from Your Girl, Lovetti 💛

Pregnancy is powerful, sacred, and sometimes downright confusing. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. You are not “being dramatic.” You are growing a whole human.

So, ask the questions. Prioritize your wellness. Trust your body, and also know when to speak up. You deserve care, compassion, and all the resources available to you—because you are that girl, mama.

And hey don’t forget your belly butter and SPF 😉

Stay glowing,
Lovetti Lafua
✨Mama. Advocate. Skin-Loving Queen. ✨

💬 Got a question or want to share your pregnancy story? Drop it in the comments I love hearing from my fellow queens!

Thank you for reading – if you enjoyed this content, please consider buying me a coffee  I really appreciate your support and it