You knew that your belly would expand, you'd feel more tired than usual, and you might throw up a few times as your pregnancy progressed.

But you may not have expected some of the other physical changes.

Excess Gas

Virtually every pregnant woman gets gassy.

You might not be able to keep it to yourself because you don't have the same control over your muscles during pregnancy.

Though you can't erase the problem, you can reduce your tendency toward gassiness with exercise and changes to your diet.

Avoid carbonated drinks, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and dried fruit. Dairy products can also cause distress during pregnancy, leading to flatulence.

 Incontinence

incontinence refers to involuntarily leaking urine because of a jarring cough, sneeze, or laugh.

As the baby grows and the uterus enlarges, the baby ends up sitting right on top of the bladder. You may have heard stories about pregnant women sneezing and accidentally emptying their bladders while standing among friends or co-workers.

Many doctors recommend that women wear panty liners to catch leaks during the last few months of pregnancy when stress incontinence is more likely.

Regular trips to the bathroom can also help.

 Odors

Some women develop a stronger sense of smell during pregnancy.

Many develop an aversion to strong food odors, such as poultry or seafood. A smaller percentage of women begin picking up on their own scent, which can be embarrassing.

 Acne

Pimples and unsightly outbreaks are common -- especially during the first trimester -- because of the additional hormones coursing through your system.

Certain acne medications are off-limits during pregnancy, but other treatments are allowed.

Consult your doctor.

Intimacy Issues

Weight gain and other physical changes can make you feel unattractive around your partner.

Don't let that lead to communication and intimacy problems.

Some people get embarrassed about being physically intimate. The discharge will change and some ladies may find that embarrassing.