Whether you are going through pregnancy yourself, supporting a surrogate, considering becoming a surrogate, or living with someone who is pregnant, it’s clear that hormonal changes have a significant impact on daily life. From morning sickness and mood swings to the remarkable physical changes needed to support a growing baby, these shifts are hard to overlook. But what exactly is happening inside the body during this time?
Let’s break down the key hormonal changes that take place throughout pregnancy and understand why they are essential for supporting both parent and baby.
The Body’s Hormonal Transformation
Pregnancy triggers profound hormonal and physiological adjustments. One of the earliest and most important changes involves human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Unique to pregnancy, hCG is produced almost entirely by the placenta. Its levels rise rapidly during the first trimester and are the hormone detected in pregnancy tests, making it the first measurable sign of conception.
The main role of hCG is to stimulate the ovaries to increase production of estrogen and progesterone. These two hormones are crucial for maintaining the pregnancy during its early stages. As the placenta develops further, it takes over the production of estrogen and progesterone, allowing hCG levels to naturally decline.
Estrogen: Driving Growth and Development
Estrogen levels climb steadily throughout pregnancy, peaking in the third trimester. This hormone plays multiple roles, from supporting the development of female sexual traits to encouraging the formation of new blood vessels, which is vital for supplying nutrients to the baby.
Estrogen also prepares the body for breastfeeding by promoting the development of milk ducts. This is why noticeable breast enlargement often occurs during the second trimester as the body gets ready for postpartum nourishment.
Progesterone: Supporting Change and Flexibility
Alongside estrogen, progesterone levels rise significantly during pregnancy. This hormone helps prepare the body for the physical changes needed to support a growing baby. It softens ligaments and joints, creating the flexibility necessary for organs to shift and make room as the uterus expands.
Progesterone also supports the growth of the uterus itself, ensuring it can safely carry the baby to term. These structural changes are essential for accommodating a full-term pregnancy.
The Postpartum Shift
After childbirth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply as the body transitions back to its pre-pregnancy state. This sudden hormonal shift can lead to emotional changes often known as the “baby blues.” Many new mothers and surrogates experience mood swings, fatigue, and heightened emotions during this period.
Managing these changes involves seeking emotional support, prioritizing rest, and engaging in gentle physical activity. These steps can help regulate stress hormones and boost endorphins, aiding both emotional and physical recovery.
A Complex and Remarkable Process
The hormonal journey of pregnancy is intricate, but every fluctuation serves a purpose in supporting new life. Understanding these changes can help expectant parents, surrogates, and their loved ones appreciate the incredible work the body performs during this time. It also highlights the importance of providing care and support—not just for the baby, but for the well-being of the person carrying them.
