21 Moms Are Sharing The Strange Pregnancy Symptoms No One Warned Them About
So when TikToker user @all.things.av asked, " I'm bored. Tell me your most random pregnancy symptom that wasn't actually a symptom. I'm not talking 'sore boobs,' I mean something so random that you stop in your tracks to get a test." Moms were happy to share the wild and weird pregnancy symptoms they experienced. From vivid dreams to nosebleeds — here are 21 entirely bizarre ways people realized they were expecting:
1. "I never knew pregnancy could give you tinnitus!!"
— billie2000xx
"This explains EVERYTHING. During a vacation with my boyfriend, I randomly developed a sharp, ringing, buzzing sound in my left ear, and if I've calculated it right, it was the day I got pregnant."
— chariss_karis
2. "I developed a ringworm-like rash all over my body, apart from my face. It started as a dot and grew bigger and redder. My son is now seven months old, and it disappeared days after he was born. I still don't know what it was."
— d.libbyk24
3. "I couldn't stand the name of the street I lived on. Hearing the word 'Kirkwood' made me physically sick. I tested positive an hour later."
— user29347181923
4. "I kept getting nosebleeds. I had never had a nosebleed before, so I thought, 'Is it the weather?' I was five months pregnant."
ArtMarie / Getty Images
— ami.arellano
"Nosebleeds aren't talked about enough. I've been having nosebleeds since the first trimester. I'm now in my third trimester."
— _.xiemei
5. "My wrist started hurting, so I searched online to find out what was happening. Turns out it was Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and it can show up in the hands during pregnancy. I was pregnant."
— daniel__ashkenazi
6. "'Air hunger' — the feeling of not getting enough air. It's horrible. I've had it during both my pregnancies, and it starts almost immediately because of the hormones."
— livlemon
7. "I suddenly had excruciating limb pain to the point I could barely walk. The hospital had no idea what was wrong."
Galina Zhigalova / Getty Images
"I tested positive two days after my second hospital visit. The pain lasted seven months, but I never got answers."
— murderoussalmon
8. "My feet grew half a size — I'm not talking about swollen feet, they never swelled. My feet grew in length, I no longer had any shoes that fit."
— crystalneysha
9. "My wife permitted me to share: She was letting out the foulest farts one night, the smell lingered for hours. We joked and wondered if this was the indication that she was pregnant. She was, in fact, pregnant."
— watalemiclaw
10. " Extremely vivid dreams — not even about babies or pregnancy, but SO vivid I woke up convinced they were real. One morning, I was looking for my non-existent puppy."
AsiaVision / Getty Images
— ellie.paramedic.mum
"Yes! This exactly. I always tell my daughters I would immediately know I was pregnant again if I had bizarre dreams like I had during my pregnancies with them."
— m81meg
11. "Tried to ghost my partner, with whom I live, and for absolutely no reason, just woke up and 'chose violence' every day. A friend convinced me I was acting unhinged and told me I should take a test."
— jocelyngreig
"Instantly became repelled by my partner for the first six to eight weeks. I was disgusted if he even looked at me funny."
— angelninja898
12. "The number of times I sneezed within a day was ridiculous. I was not sick, but I was unable to quit sneezing."
— jessicajedidiah
13. "After being a vegetarian for years, I couldn't go into a butcher shop because I would instantly gag at the sights and smells. I walked in one day and said, 'Oh my gosh, it smells so good in here!' I had a positive test the next day."
— karoline12345_0
14. "All of my gums would profusely bleed when I flossed (I'm usually a daily flosser), so it was strange. On an unrelated note: I also had a massive craving for peppers. They had to be pickled or spicy."
— monitaneang
15. "I suddenly had a weird feeling come over me. I don't even know how to explain it. I woke up one morning and thought, 'Something is different.' I thought I was going into psychosis until I took a test."
Westend61 / Getty Images/Westend61
"It was similar to the feeling you get when being watched. I knew I wasn't alone, but I still don't know how to describe other than it was very odd and unsettling."
— aubs.2002
And as a little bonus, here are six mind-blowing times other people told new moms they were pregnant before they even knew it themselves:
16. "My period was already late, one of my preschoolers looked at me dead in the face and said, 'Miss Hailey, what's in your belly? ' I tested positive that night."
17. "My older neighbor, who had been dealing with delirium, told my husband I was pregnant. We'd been trying for seven years, so he just laughed. Three days later, we found out we were expecting."
— tylerleagroom
18. "I tested and told my mum I was pregnant. She told me she already knew because two days before (when I didn't yet know I was pregnant), my grandad told her he had another great-grandbaby coming. Turns out, said great-grandbaby is in my belly."
19. "My brother, who was 17 at the time, told me out of the blue that I was pregnant and it would be a girl. I ignored him.
"A week went by, and I took a test. Sure enough, it was positive, and I later found out she was going to be a girl. She'll turn four this December!"
— madisonliaa_
20. "My cat was always clingy, but she began taking it to a new EXTREME. One day, I kept dozing off at random, and each time I woke up, she was next to my belly, so I felt inclined to take a test. I was indeed pregnant."
— 1kosmikae
21. "My friend's husband can smell pregnancy. (I don't know how). He says women just smell different when they're expecting. He told his wife both times she was pregnant before she knew, and he told me I 'smelled' pregnant with my second."
Did any of these little-known pregnancy symptoms surprise you? Parents, what was a bizarre way you knew you or your partner were pregnant? Tell us in the comments or answer anonymously using the form below!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
2 hours ago
- New York Post
Biohacker's 4 crucial steps to therapy with psychedelics — and a non-drug technique to try first
Dave Asprey's psychedelic journey spans continents and states of consciousness — from microdosing LSD in LA to sipping Ayahuasca with shamans in the mountains of Peru. The self-proclaimed 'father of biohacking' has long touted the potential brain-boosting, trauma-releasing and even life-extending power of these mind-bending substances. But it's not all bliss and breakthroughs. In his new book 'Heavily Meditated,' Asprey warns that psychedelics carry real risks and stresses that proper preparation is key to avoiding a trip gone wrong. 5 Dave Asprey shares his psychedelic experiences in his new book, 'Heavily Meditated: The Fast Path to Remove Your Triggers, Dissolve Stress, and Activate Inner Peace.' Getty Images 'It can take months to heal psychologically if you have a bad reaction or if you choose to try it alone without the support of an expert,' he wrote, noting that a 'meaningful number of people have mental breaks afterward.' So, how do you trip smarter — not harder? Asprey outlined four key steps to prepare for a psychedelic experience that can help maximize benefits and minimize risks. But before you reach for the drugs, he wants you to try this first. 'You can access the same altered states with other methods outside of these substances, like holotropic breathwork,' Asprey told The Post. This technique combines rapid, controlled breathing with sensory music to promote mental, spiritual and physical healing. Asprey interviewed the creator of holotropic breathwork, Dr. Stanislav Grof, on his podcast, 'The Human Upgrade.' Grof explained that the technique slows oxygen flow to the brain, triggering distress signals to the limbic system. This breathing style alters your self-perception and sense of time, inducing a psychedelic state. 5 Studies suggest that one in four Americans have tried at least one psychdelic drug in their lifetime. vlorzor – 'It felt like tripping balls — my mind was on a hyperdrive tour of the universe. But there were no drugs involved,' Asprey wrote about his first experience in 'Heavily Meditated.' This altered state of consciousness is believed to help people access parts of the psyche typically out of reach, allowing them to work through emotional blocks and unresolved issues. 'It dug up stuff deeper than anything I've experienced, even more profound than my trips with ayahuasca,' Asprey noted. While it's generally considered safe, holotropic breathwork isn't recommended for certain groups, such as those with a history of cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, panic attacks, psychosis or seizure disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Still curious about trying mind-altering substances? Asprey says these four steps are key to a smooth and successful experience. 5 Traditionally, psychedelic substances like ayahuasca are taken under the guidance of an experienced shaman. AFP via Getty Images #1. Set the scene 'Find a very reputable guide and a safe space,' Asprey advised. 'Don't go at it alone.' Psychedelics can stir up a wide range of emotions — including fear, anxiety and confusion — often referred to as a 'bad trip.' Without support, managing those intense feelings can be difficult and overwhelming. 'Some of these experiences can leave marks that aren't easy to shake off.' Dave Asprey Being in a chaotic, stressful or unsafe environment can amplify those reactions, increasing the risk of a negative experience. Across the US, a growing number of states and cities are moving to legalize and regulate therapeutic psychedelic use. That includes Oregon, where licensed clinics can administer psilocybin — the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms — to adults 21 and older under the supervision of trained facilitators. Clinical trials are also underway at institutions like Mount Sinai's Parsons Research Center for Psychedelic Healing, which features dedicated treatment and group therapy rooms designed to support safe, supervised psychedelic therapy and research. #2. Come up with a plan Working with a trained expert can also help you understand how different substances, strains and doses affect the mind and body. 'Start slow,' Asprey recommended. 'Some people can handle more without losing their minds. Others can access altered states with smaller doses.' 5 Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, is being studied for its potential therapeutic effects. contentdealer – #3. Anchor your experience While many people view psychedelics as purely recreational, Asprey suggests treating the trip as an opportunity for insight, not just pleasure. 'Be clear on your intentions,' he advised. Establishing a purpose beforehand can help guide the experience toward healing or personal growth. It also serves as a mental anchor if things become overwhelming or disorienting, reducing the risk of the journey going off track. 5 There are a wide variety of practices used to integrate a psychedelic experience, including creative expression and quiet meditation. BullRun – #4 Don't neglect your post-trip 'You must integrate afterwards,' Asprey said. 'This is crucial.' Integration means taking time to process the emotions, realizations, or insights that surfaced during a psychedelic experience. It's how you extract long-term value — and avoid letting breakthroughs fade into the background. This might involve journaling, creating art, meditating, joining a support group, or working with a trained therapist. 'I see people getting high every weekend with no integration and no therapeutics,' Asprey said. 'That's not how to do it, especially if you're in your 20s.' 'When used wisely and with respect, psychedelics can provide a profound inner journey that opens doors to uncharted territories of your mind,' Asprey wrote in 'Heavily Meditated.' 'But there's a catch — some of these experiences can leave marks that aren't easy to shake off,' he added. 'That's why environment, mindset and having an experienced guide are crucial if you choose to journey with any of them, especially if you're inexperienced.'
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Coconut Water Isn't Hydrating You as Much as You Think
All products featured on Self are independently selected by Self editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Condé Nast may earn an affiliate commission. Westend61/Getty Images Wrapping up an intense workout, you might turn to coconut water as your beverage of choice, figuring the added nutrients—specifically, its electrolytes—will help you rehydrate faster and better than regular H20. It's true that unlike regular water, coconut water naturally does contain sodium, potassium, magnesium, and other kinds of these charged minerals, all of which can help your body balance fluids more efficiently and thus accelerate your return to hydration baseline after a tough exercise session or another strenuous activity. For this reason, it's earned a reputation as one of the best post-workout drinks out there. But Anthea Levi, MS, RD, CDN, a Brooklyn-based health writer and founder of Alive+Well Nutrition, tells SELF, it's not totally deserving. In fact, she says, it's a myth that 'coconut water is a great source of electrolytes.' Basically, the issue boils down to the fact that coconut water doesn't offer a well-rounded electrolyte mix, according to Levi. 'While coconut water does supply potassium, it's not rich in sodium,' in contrast to alternatives like sports drinks and electrolyte supplements, she says. Per Ohio State University, a cup of store-bought coconut water contains 470 milligrams (mg) of potassium and 30 mg of sodium—more of the former than most athletes need, but significantly less of the latter. And that's a problem, since sodium is actually the main electrolyte lost in sweat. Like a biological magnet, according to Loma Linda University, it helps water pass in and out of your cells properly, promoting water absorption, preventing dehydration, and supporting essential bodily functions—so it's important to have enough. Because of this sodium shortage, coconut water is pretty limited in its ability to replenish depleted stores of that important electrolyte. That, in turn, hurts its ability to boost overall recovery—so treating it as a one-stop shop for post-workout electrolyte replacement would be a mistake. Of course, it'll still help, but it's not a miracle cure for dehydration as popularly believed. Thankfully, if you love your post-workout coconut water, there's an easy way to boost its hydrating benefits: Doctor up your bottle. By adding a pinch of sodium-rich table salt to your coconut water, you can easily introduce some of that lacking mineral, according to Levi. Or, for a more flavorful blend, try combining two cups cold water, one cup coconut water, one cup fruit juice, and an eighth of a teaspoon of salt, according to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. That said, don't worry if you're not digging a DIY solution: 'Otherwise, opt for something with more sodium' right out of the gate, Levi says. Between all the electrolyte-packed products on the market, you have plenty of commercial options—Gatorade, Gatorade Thirst Quencher packets, Pedialyte, Liquid IV, LMNT, and many, many more. Compared to plain coconut water, for example, a 20-ounce bottle of Gatorade contains 490 mg of sodium, not to mention 350 mg of potassium, along with other electrolytes like chloride, magnesium, and calcium. Decided to opt for the powdered stuff instead? One packet (a single serving) of Thirst Quencher contains 230 milligrams of sodium and 70 mg of potassium, respectively. What's more, these types of items are also rich in carbohydrates, nutrients that aid in electrolyte absorption (and exercise recovery). By comparison, coconut water is pretty meager on the carb front. Before we let you go, a word of advice before you start packing on the Powerade: Take a moment to consider whether you really need the extra electrolytes. Generally, experts don't recommend them if your body isn't under a ton of strain (whether because of exercise, extreme heat, or illness), since you likely aren't losing them in your day-to-day life at a rate high enough to warrant replenishment—so investing in a supplemental source might not even be necessary. And if you're not sure if your activity fits the bill? Here's how to tell if you should supplement with electrolytes post-workout. Related: 12 Hydration Mistakes Leaving You Parched, According to Experts The 22 Best Water Bottles for Staying Hydrated Whenever, Wherever Here's Exactly How Much Water You Should Drink Every Day Get more of SELF's great service journalism delivered right to your inbox. Originally Appeared on Self
Newsweek
8 hours ago
- Newsweek
Is Artificial Intelligence Dumbing Down Cancer Doctors?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Doctors who rely on artificial intelligence (AI) may be unintentionally deskilling, according to a new study. The study, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, suggests that the growing reliance on AI in medical procedures may diminish doctors' diagnostic skills. Researchers found that endoscopists—physicians who perform colonoscopies—were significantly less effective at detecting precancerous polyps without AI assistance after becoming accustomed to using the technology. In tests conducted across four endoscopy centers in Poland, experienced clinicians used AI to assist with polyp detection. Afterward, colonoscopies were alternately performed with or without AI. Stock image: Composite depicting a professional using artificial intelligence. Stock image: Composite depicting a professional using artificial intelligence. Photo by Roman Shashko / Getty Images Concerningly, the detection rate fell from 28.4% to 22.4%. "We have to admit that we were not expecting to find out such a big difference in quality parameters of colonoscopy," Dr. Marcin Romańczyk of the Academy of Silesia, one of the lead study authors, told Newsweek in an email. Why It Matters Colonoscopies are a primary method for preventing colorectal cancer by identifying and removing adenomas. AI systems designed to improve this process have shown promise in increasing the diagnostic rate in real time. However, the study's findings could show that doctors who are overly reliant on AI tools might experience a deskilling effect in which clinicians gradually lose proficiency in recognizing polyps unaided. "On one side, AI usage is becoming standard of care," Romańczyk told Newsweek. "On the other hand, we are aware that we can not correctly state how our behavior has been modified by its usage." What to Know The drop in performance was not attributed to fatigue or lack of training. According to the study, all participants were highly experienced, and AI was the only modifiable factor among them. "I think that our findings, regardless of the fact that they were a surprise for us, can be explained by other uses of new technology," Romańczyk told Newsweek. "I don't personally feel confident anymore traveling on my own without any software assistance to an exact spot in another city, even within my region, because I've got used to using online map systems. "As we find that it can be reproduced on other examples, we find it crucial to investigate this field more broadly in the future." What People Are Saying In a commentary published alongside the study, University College London's Dr. Omer Ahmad wrote, "These findings temper the current enthusiasm for rapid adoption of AI-based technologies [...] and highlight the importance of carefully considering possible unintended clinical consequences." What's Next The authors of the study called for further research into how AI may influence the abilities of doctors in other fields. They also stressed the need for solutions to prevent skill decay, including revised training protocols or limits on continuous AI use. "In our opinion, usage of AI is inevitable, and we should do our best to be prepared as well as possible to achieve the best outcomes from AI assistance," Romańczyk concluded.
