Pregnancy gingivitis is when your gums become red and swollen while you’re pregnant.1 They may feel sore and bleed easily.
Pregnancy gingivitis can develop when you’re pregnant because your body is producing more of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This process increases blood flow within your body. The extra blood supply helps keep the baby healthy, but the additional blood flow can make your gums more sensitive.
Pregnancy may also make you more prone to gum infections, or a buildup of plaque (the sticky film on your teeth). This is because pregnancy changes how the body reacts to bacteria, and plaque is made by bacteria.
Your gums will probably return to normal after you have your baby, but it’s important to keep your mouth healthy in the meantime.