Pregnancy has various effects on the pregnant woman. Right from the first trimester to the third trimester, a lot of physiological changes take place. While most of these changes are normal, others may indicate danger signs of pregnancy.

One common change that occurs in some women is the nose “growing bigger”. From the commencement of the first trimester, and lasting into the second trimester, the blood vessels expand in order to cope with the demand of the growing foetus. The oestrogen levels in the body can increase blood flow into the mucous membrane beneath the nose. The muscles and membranes beneath the nose thus expand because of increased blood supply resulting in a slight increase in the size of the nose.

During the third or last trimester, some women experience water retention in the face which causes significant swelling of the nose. Other common places of swelling include the feet and hands.

Although these hormonal changes and swelling are normal and mostly return to their normal state after pregnancy, sudden or severe swelling can be an indication of high blood pressure or preeclampsia which is a danger sign in pregnancy.