Wondering whether you’ll be able to squeeze into your old jeans by sucking in that baby belly? Well, this question has two parts. Is it possible? Yes! Some moms can make their belly disappear entirely, just by sucking in their stomach when pregnant. However, you might want to switch over to maternity jeans for comfort.
Is sucking in your belly safe for your baby? That’s a yes also. Your little one should be fine, as long as you’re not sucking in when lying on your stomach.
Avoid this position whenever you’re sleeping or exercising, as this may put your baby at risk. You can try alternative sleeping positions if you’re worried about spending too much time on your stomach.
But sucking in when standing should not disturb your baby. Your growing child is inside the amniotic sac within the uterus, and your abdominal muscles can only suck in so far.
It would be best if you also were wary of people bumping into your belly, as jarring movements may hurt your child.
In this article
How To Feel Your Stomach To See If You’re Pregnant
When trying to determine whether you’re pregnant or not, there is only one way to know for sure. Purchase a pregnancy test like this Clearblue Rapid Detection Pregnancy Test, or visit your OBGYN.
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However, sometimes there are a handful of alternative ways to check before meeting with your doctor. If the anticipation is killing you, try these methods.
Look For Other Physical Signs First
There may be better indications when trying to detect a pregnancy early on than just examining your stomach. For example, look for these key signs.
- you’re experiencing morning sickness
- your breasts are feeling sore and tender
- you’re feeling lethargic
- you’re experiencing headaches
- you’re feeling nauseous without throwing up
- you’re experiencing mood swings
- you’re feeling bloated all the time
Late Period
A late period is one of the first signs that you’ll notice. Keep track of your menstrual cycle because if you’re over a week late, you should take a test to find out whether you’re expecting. Then, meet with your doctor to verify.
Slight Cramps
These are also known as ‘tummy twinges,’ and they should feel like the skin and muscles surrounding your stomach are being stretched. These can start as early as two weeks into your pregnancy.
Stiff Stomach
As your uterus stretches and grows during the first trimester, your stomach may feel tighter and stiffer than usual. Gently press around with your fingers. It’s entirely safe for you or your partner to massage the area gently if you’re feeling this discomfort.
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How To Tell If You Have A Baby Bump
Ah, the age-old question. Is your baby bump finally showing? Or are you bloated from last night’s Taco Tuesday dinner?
There are a few ways to tell whether or not your round stomach is due to your baby growing, so keep an eye out for these key signs.
You’ve Entered the Second Trimester
You’ll usually begin to show between 12 and 16 weeks. Your stomach should start to swell around this point in the pregnancy.
You’re On Your Second Pregnancy
If you’re currently on your second or third pregnancy, you may start showing earlier than you did with your first. Therefore, if your stomach is expanding, it’s likely your belly popping.
Showing early the second time around is usually due to the weaker abdominal muscles. They are also more familiar with the experience and feeling of pregnancy, and thus adjust accordingly.
Your Stomach Looks Larger
Not only should your belly appear larger, but you’ll likely have a few stretch marks covering your stomach and thighs. Not to worry, though! This is a common sign amongst pregnant women.
If you’re unsure of what these stretch marks look like, look for discolored streaks across the skin. They shouldn’t hurt, but they are typically caused by the skin’s inability to stretch with your body fast enough.
They may itch, so use plenty of cocoa butter, like Palmer’s Massage Lotion throughout your pregnancy to soothe the discomfort.
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Whatever you do, do not scratch the afflicted area and stay out of the sun! Both of these risks can cause longterm damage to your skin.
Your Clothes Fit Tighter
This may be one of the earliest signs that your belly is growing at a reasonable rate if your jeans feel a little too snug, good news! Your pregnant belly may start showing within the next few months.
When Do You Start Showing With Twins?
Twins can be an entirely different rodeo. You may start showing a lot sooner, perhaps somewhere within your first trimester.
You’ll have to visit your doctor to determine whether you’re carrying multiples, as there’s no way to test for twins at home.
Does Size Matter?
As previously stated, bellies can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy, and a bigger belly doesn’t mean your child is growing faster than he or she needs to. Your uterus expands along with your growing baby, meaning that your stomach will also expand.
If you’re overweight, or shorter than the average woman, you may notice your stomach looking larger than the norm. This is also common, so don’t worry if you’re looking like you’re further along than you are. It might just be your unique proportions.
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What If My Belly Isn’t Round?
Many first-time moms expect to have that perfect basketball-shaped belly during their pregnancy. However, baby bellies can come in all kinds of sizes and shapes.
Some moms may carry lower, while some carry higher. Belly profiles can vary too, so don’t feel self-conscious if your belly doesn’t look like the ones you see on Pinterest.
Your body is beautiful, regardless. Remember — you’re creating a new life!
Conclusion
Bellies can vary from mom to mom, and from pregnancy to pregnancy, so don’t be alarmed if you’re growing too fast, or not growing fast enough.
However, if you wish to suck in your pregnancy belly, don’t worry about putting your baby at risk. This is safe, as your baby is protected within the womb.
Moms shouldn’t feel the need to suck-in if it’s uncomfortable though. Bellies can come in all shapes and sizes, and all that matters is that your baby is thriving.
After all, pregnancy is only temporary, and you’re well on your way to meeting your future child, which is the best news a soon-to-be mama can hear!
