'Could it be allergies?' The 5 pregnancy symptoms that aren't just hormonal.

Thanks to our brand partner, RHINOCORT

Being in the third trimester of my first pregnancy, I've learnt it's full of surprises well beyond that moment you see two lines on a test. Whether you're early on or further along, the so-called "classic" pregnancy symptoms often don't tell the whole story.

Sure, there are plenty of hormonal changes in the mix, but alongside the textbook nausea or tender breasts, many of us discover other quirks — the kind that can pop up, fade away or stick around — leaving you (okay, me) awake at 3am googling all kinds of questions.

If you've had a few surprises along the way, you're not alone. Here are five pregnancy symptoms people often experience that don't always get mentioned.

1. Hayfever, meet pregnancy.

Ever wondered if pregnancy can actually make your hayfever worse or cause symptoms you've never had before? Turns out, it might not just be in your head.

Pregnant bodies can be more sensitive to allergens, with hayfever becoming a real challenge for many women. Think congestion, sneezing or an itchy, runny nose — sometimes for the first time ever or worse than usual.

Rhinocort may be an option. The active ingredient within Rhinocort has not demonstrated an increase in risks to unborn babies in human studies. However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare professional while pregnant to determine if this product is right for you.

Rhinocort Extra Strength is an intranasal corticosteroid spray (INCS) that delivers 24-hour relief from seasonal and year-round allergies. Its dual-action formula relieves and prevents those frustrating hayfever and allergy symptoms.

2. Puffiness. Lots of puffiness.

If your rings feel tight or your feet look puffier than usual, pregnancy swelling (oedema) might be the cause.

During pregnancy, your body has more blood than usual to support your baby's growth. As your baby grows, your uterus also gets bigger and can press on the veins that carry blood from your legs back to your heart. Meanwhile, pregnancy hormones soften the walls of these veins, making it harder for them to work efficiently.

All these factors can cause extra fluid to collect in your hands, feet and ankles, especially later in the day.

Usually, it's harmless. But if swelling in your legs doesn't improve overnight or you develop sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet, check in with your GP. To help ease swelling, try elevating your feet, staying active and drinking plenty of water.

3. Your skin is suddenly itchy.

One of the pregnancy symptoms I didn't expect was itchy skin, especially across the top of my belly.

Pregnancy hormones might have a hand in the itchiness, but a lot of it comes down to your skin stretching as your belly, breasts and thighs grow to make room for your little one.

For some relief, keep your skin well moisturised, slip into loose, breathable clothes and enjoy a cool shower when you can.

4. There's a reason for those varicose veins.

I thought I had bruises on my legs, but they were varicose veins — those bluish, twisted veins that often appear during pregnancy. This happens because your growing uterus presses on leg veins, blood volume increases and vein valves may not work as well.

Varicose veins can cause leg pain that gets worse at the end of the day. Doing ankle exercises, shifting your weight from foot to foot when standing and elevating your legs can help.

5. Say hello to heartburn and indigestion.

Heartburn and indigestion can be tough during pregnancy, especially as your bump grows.

Your expanding uterus presses on your stomach, and pregnancy hormones relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus, making acid reflux more likely. Digestion also slows down, which can cause fullness or discomfort.

To help, eat smaller meals, avoid spicy or fatty foods, sit upright after eating and try sleeping with an extra pillow. If symptoms persist, chat with your GP about safe treatment options.

Find Rhinocort at your nearest Chemist Warehouse.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Featured Image: Getty.

Rhinocort Extra Strength allows you to take charge of your allergies with its dual-action that both relieves and prevents those frustrating hayfever and allergy symptoms. Rhinocort is an intranasal corticosteroid spray (INCS) effective against the toughest of seasonal and year-round allergies for 24 hours.