Common pregnancy discomforts

Pregnancy is a period of numerous changes. It also comes with various discomforts.

Some may occur during the early weeks of pregnancy, while others will appear towards the time of delivery. Still, some appear early in pregnancy, and then disappear, only to reappear later on.

This is all part of pregnancy and is very normal.  Let us look at some of them.

Nausea

This is one of the most common symptoms that pregnant women have. For most, it is usually the first sign that they are pregnant. Nausea can be accompanied by vomiting.

This normally happens during the early stages of pregnancy as the body tries to adjust to higher levels of hormones.

Nausea will normally go down or disappear by the fourth month of pregnancy. However, in some women it can persist for longer. It is normally extreme in the morning or when you’re hungry.

How to handle nausea

If it bothers you in the morning, nibble on dry foods, for example dry cereals, crackers, or biscuits. Also eat food that is high in fiber, as well as protein, to stay full for longer.

Eat smaller portions spread throughout the day, instead of the traditional three meals a day. In addition, eat slowly and chew food completely.

Avoid foods that are likely to cause nausea, such as greasy, fried and spicy foods.

Slowly sip on fluids such as cool fruit juice.

If nausea and vomiting become severe, consult a doctor, since this can cause dehydration, as well as nutrient losses.

Constipation

This can be due to fluctuating hormones, iron and vitamin supplements or even pressure exerted on the rectum by the uterus.

To counter it, increase fibre intake by eating whole grains, vegetables, and whole fruits like pears and apples.

*Drink warm fluids particularly in the morning. Take at least six to eight glasses of water a day, as well as other fluids.

Perform light exercises and obey your body’s need to pass waste.

 If the condition persists, see a doctor, who may recommend a laxative.

Heartburn

It is common in pregnancy. To prevent it, avoid large meals, eat slowly, separate solid and liquid meals, and sip on warm fluids.

Also avoid spicy foods, and do not lie down immediately after you eat.

When sleeping, ensure that your head is elevated higher than your feet. Consult a doctor on the use of antacids.

Oedema

Our growing uterus can cause pressure on the blood vessels that carry blood from the lower part of the body, causing fluid retention, and thereafter oedema.

Elevate your feet and legs while sitting and avoid standing for long.

Wear loose fitting clothes and shoes to increase circulation and decrease fluid retention.

Avoid too much salt, which can cause fluid retention. It is also good to consult a doctor since oedema can be a sign of hypertension.

 Swollen and bleeding gums

This is caused by increased blood volume and circulation and high levels of progesterone hormones.

Eat a balanced diet that has a good supply of calcium, vitamins D and C.

Brush teeth at least twice a day and floss them often.

Frequent urination

In early in pregnancy, this is due to hormonal changes that make the blood to increase and flow faster through the kidneys, filling the bladder more often. This will reappear in the third trimester because of the pressure exerted on the bladder by the uterus.

Fatigue: It could be due to anemia, which is common in pregnancy. Get enough rest by going to bed early and taking naps. Avoid strenuous activities and have moderate exercise to help boost your energy levels.

Insomnia:

Finding a comfortable position for sleeping can be quite difficult, especially later in pregnancy.

Use extra pillows to prevent muscle strain.

Other discomforts include backache, headache and abdominal pain. See your doctor if any discomfort persists.