Whether you’re presently expecting or planning to get pregnant in the future, you’re definitely going to be met with some surprises throughout those 40 weeks and the months following childbirth. To help you better prepare for this beautiful experience, guest expert Dr. Marjorie Dixon shares her top 5 truths about pregnancy and postpartum.

• Your stomach will still feel “smooshy” after you deliver and you may still look pregnant: Even after you give birth, you might be surprised by how much it still seems like you’re carrying your baby. Your belly may still be visible for a few weeks post-childbirth because it takes some time for your stretched skin to readjust.

• Your breasts will be very large and very hard when you’re lactating: Without a doubt, your breasts will be much larger than usual when you’re pregnant, and even postpartum they’ll continue to grow as the milk starts to come in. As you begin to lactate, your breasts will also become very firm as the glands become full of milk.

• You will have heavy vaginal bleeding postpartum: Called lochia, postnatal bleeding is the normal shedding of the uterine lining. Even though the placenta is now gone, your uterus still needs to shrink back to its regular size by losing its extra lining. This bleeding is normal, but it is usually extremely heavy for the first few days (heavier than even your heaviest period) and can last for up to 4-6 weeks after childbirth.

• You will find regular activities more taxing after childbirth: We all know that proper diet, exercise, sleep and personal time are key to a healthy lifestyle, but after giving birth you’ll find that you’ll have much less time to yourself – especially in the sleep department! Don’t be too hard on yourself during this time. You’ll get back to your usual self in your own time.

• You will find this fabulous moment in your life relatively challenging: Having a child is a wonderful experience, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with any hardships. Women from every walk of life struggle with parts of this experience, so allow yourself to work through these difficulties with a partner, friend or family member.

What surprised you during your pregnancy or after childbirth? Share your experiences with other moms and moms-to-be in the comments!