Your mouth can change when you’re pregnant. A common change is in your gums and is known as pregnancy gingivitis. 

During pregnancy, your gums can look redder and bleed when you brush your teeth. In more severe cases, increased swelling and bleeding without brushing can occur. Pregnancy gingivitis can start in the second month of pregnancy, tends to peak at around 8 months and tapers out after the baby is born.

Pregnancy gingivitis occurs because of the change in hormone levels. An increase in estrogen and progesterone can exaggerate the way that your gums react to the irritants found in plaque. When you’re pregnant, progesterone levels can be 10 times higher than normal. Changes in hormone levels can also affect the growth of certain bacteria that can cause gingivitis, increasing the likelihood of bacteria growth. 

When you’re pregnant, your immune system may also work differently and can change the way your body reacts to bacteria. Plaque build-up may increase because of these changes.

Remember, the plaque found in your mouth causes the irritation and gum issues and not the pregnancy, you’ve just become more sensitive to it. Plaque is the leading cause of gingivitis. Minimize the effects of pregnancy gingivitis by practicing good oral hygiene habits. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time, floss after meals and use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help control gum inflammation and plaque build-up.