Sore Gums at 12 weeks

[Houston79]

This is my first time carrying a pregnancy this far and today I noticed something strange.  I was eating an apple and afterwards my gums were sore and swollen.  I brush and floss regularly so I was quite surprised.  Is this a pregnancy thing??

[Rhi315]

Yes! I had this problem when I was pregnant! Mine was so bad that my brushing twice daily was actually causing my gums to recede. So I had to go to only brushing once daily. =/ And brushing was painful.

[Houston79]

Thank you for your help! I use Listerine regularly.  Also, I've eaten an apple since and haven't had an issue...

[stacey10]

maybe use the listerine with the alcohol as they have discovered a link to mouthwash and mouth cancer, when you brush your gums use a soft brush as well even if you have to swap your regular one over for the soft one when doing your gums :)

[Michele, Katy, TX]

Also use a mouthwash such as Listerine, each time you brush.  I was told by a dental hygenist that Listerine was the best.  It will burn at first but try to work your way up to rinsing for 30 seconds each time.

[Houston79]

Okay, thanks for your help!

[Ashelen]

Definitely a pregnancy thing! The increased blood volume in your body can cause swelling and tenderness in your gums. They'll bleed more easily and you want to avoid infection, so make sure to floss and brush more gently as well.

But yep - totally normal, if irritating :-).