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By: ePregnancy

Super-Sensitive Schnoz Alert 
Have you been wrinkling your nose at smells that no one else notices lately? You aren’t alone: the number of women who have an increased olfactory capability during pregnancy is legion. Some of you may just notice more smells; others of you may develop a downright repulsion to certain odors. If you fall into the latter category, make adjustments: it’s absolutely acceptable to ask coworkers to tone down their perfume applications. You may also consider switching to unscented soaps and household cleansers. Maybe this is the perfect time to indulge in one of those oil burners -- just be sure to pick an appropriate oil, like lavender or lemon. 

At this point, you definitely feel the pregnancy, but no one else can tell. Your uterus is growing though: instead of its normal fist-size, it’s grown to the size of a grapefruit, preparing to make room for baby. You may also begin to feel some slight contractions. This is completely normal -- consider them growing pains -- but if they are ever accompanied by bleeding, put in a call to your doctor posthaste.

Due Dialect: Spotting 
One little-known pregnancy fact is that light bleeding is actually a very commonplace occurance during the first trimester, and is not always indicative of a miscarriage. If you do notice some bleeding, make sure to wear a pad or pantyliner so that you can guage exactly how much you are bleeding. If the amount is excessive, or if there are bits of tissue involved, you should contact your doctor immediately. Even if you are a loyal fan of the tampon, avoid it right now -- this goes for douching and intercourse as well -- you shouldn't be introducing anything to the vaginal area while you are experiencing bleeding. 


There are several common reasons why you may experience bleeding:

• Implantation Bleeding -- may occur anywhere from 6-12 days after conception; may present as a few hours or a few days of light spotting. 
  
  
• Infection -- urinary tract infections and infections of the pelvic cavity can both cause light bleeding; if you experience other symptoms of either of these (fever, etc.) see your doctor for treatment. 
  
  
• Intercourse -- caused by a tender and sensitive cervix; discontinue intercourse until you've been checked over by your doctor. Note: Even though intercourse may cause spotting, it will not cause a miscarriage! 

When to call the doctor:

• If you are bleeding heavily.
  
  
• If you notice bits of tissue mixed in with the blood flow.
  
  
• If you experience strong cramping pain in your lower stomach area -- this goes for anything stronger than your average menstrual cramps.