When I was pregnant with my first child, I was warned about the various symptoms I experienced, from early morning heartburn to afternoon fatigue. But I also had very painful calf cramps and constant insomnia that no one told me about. Eventually I found calf compression sleeves that saved my legs and my sleep recovered…eventually. But I fell down too many internet rabbit holes to learn that my symptoms are actually very common. Finding a solution that worked for me required even more research.

I totally agree with the idea of ​​moms supporting moms, and the BabyCenter community is buzzing with moms-to-be sharing tips to help each other. So when an expectant mother she asked her birth month“What are the symptoms/side effects of pregnancy that no one told you about,” the responses flooded in. Even though I’m a few years from my last baby, all of their experiences make me feel validated. These are completely normal pregnancy symptoms that I would like to know about and some simple ways to relieve them.

1. Congestion

“Congestion 24/7 where I couldn’t breathe through my nose.” – @Joyful2024

It’s not just you. Many pregnant women report feeling congested or suffocated at various times during their pregnancy. Increased estrogen can lead to more mucus production, according to Mayo ClinicOpens a new window. Yes! Your body seems to produce all the extra fluid during pregnancy. In addition to congestion, some moms-to-be experience nasal swelling and even nosebleeds. It’s called pregnancy rhinitis and is especially common in the third trimester and can persist even after delivery.

What to do about it: Nasal rinses and sprays are generally safe and effective, says Layan Alrahmani, MD, a specialist in gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine and a member of the BabyCenter Advisory Board. It also helps to stay hydrated by drinking 10 eight-ounce glasses of water each day.

2. Tonsil stones

“For me, it’s an increased frequency of tonsil stones. I usually deal with them every few months. I had so many in my last pregnancy. I had one so big I threw up trying to dig it out.” – @ShireRat

Tonsil stones are a buildup of materials like calcium, food particles, germs, and bacteria that form small white bumps on your tonsils, according to Cleveland ClinicOpens a new window. It could be the result of all the extra saliva you produce while pregnant or not drinking enough water. Tonsil stones are usually harmless, but they can cause a sore throat, ear pain, or bad breath.

What to do about it: You don’t have to do anything; Tonsil stones often go away on their own. But if you’re uncomfortable or develop an infection, try gargling with warm salt water, suggests Dr. Alrahmans. You can try to remove them at home with cotton swabs by gently moving them, or visit a dentist or other medical professional to allow you to remove the stones.

3. Unusual hair growth

“Everyone told me you had great hair… no one told me I’d have hair on my butt.” – @Avenher89

Hair on your nipples, stomach and other places you probably never had before pregnancy is one of the joys of travel. The reason: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause extra hair growth, she says American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)Opens a new window. Thanks again, hormones.

What to do about it: If you want to remove that extra coat, it’s safe to shave, wax or tweez it. You can also just sit still – it should dissipate at some point after delivery.

“Terrible gas. That’s so, so bad.” – @MamaNezzie2

There is gas and gas in pregnancy – and it is no the same. Your body produces more progesterone, a hormone that relaxes all your muscles. It affects your digestive tract and can cause gas, bloating, belching and bloating, especially after eating.

What to do about it: Since it’s most likely related to your diet, try to avoid things that commonly cause gas, like beans, cabbage, broccoli, and sodas. If you can’t find relief from changing your diet, talk to your doctor about safe OTC medications.

5. Sore nipples

“Warts are such a thing for me! I wake up in a lot of pain! Not even painful, but literally on fire for me.” – @Jaylove417

Many pregnant women experience changes in their breasts, such as size and darker areolas. Some also complain of tenderness and pain. As with many pregnancy symptoms, you can blame this one on hormones. Estrogen, progesterone and prolactin increase blood flow to your breasts and cause the tissue to prepare for breastfeeding.

What to do about it: Get a proper maternity bra (or even a good sports bra). Many stores offer this service for free. Additional support can help ease discomfort.

6. Carpel tunnel

“For me it’s carpal tunnel. I was much worse in the first trimester, which was even less expected. Driving at the time really made it worse. Now it only happens when I’m sleeping.” – @M3LS13T

This can feel like pain in the fingers, hands, wrists and arms, causing numbness or even tingling. Symptoms are common during pregnancy as you retain a lot of water which can compress the nerves. And don’t be surprised if the pain gets worse at night. The good news is that it is usually mild and can be alleviated without surgery or other invasive procedures.

What to do about it: Pay attention to certain activities that make the pain worse (like typing or playing tennis) and try to limit them in your daily life when possible. You can also try wearing a wrist brace and ask your doctor about OTC treatments or physical therapy.

7. Hemorrhoids

“How common is prolapse and that hemorrhoids from pushing are lifelong, even though they come and go. Everyone talks about vaginas, but no one tells you that your butt will never be the same!” – @Alliesn

Constipation is common in pregnancy and unfortunately can lead to hemorrhoids from all the pushing. “Pregnant women often have hemorrhoids — painful, itchy varicose veins in or around the anus,” ACOG states. If you do get them, they usually last throughout pregnancy and disappear a few weeks after delivery, says Dr. Alrahmans. But don’t be alarmed if they flare up after giving birth.

What to do about it: Change your diet to add more fiber and make sure you move and be active regularly. If you already are dealing with hemorrhoidsice packs and witch hazel pads can help.

There are no shortage of pregnancy symptoms, but you can rest easy knowing that most of them are completely harmless to you and your baby – and temporary. They just come with the territory and like your own little rite of passage on the road to motherhood. You’re also never alone—the pregnancy sisterhood is right next to you with extra body hair, tonsil stones, and so much gas.