How Can I be More Comfortable While Pregnant?

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Although pregnancy is a miraculous process, moms-to-be often may experience a number of uncomfortable symptoms as a result of her changing body. Certain symptoms such as dizziness may appear even before you know you are pregnant, while some symptoms may appear early on and subside, remain throughout pregnancy, or appear only during the third trimester such as swelling of ankles or back pain.  

Although some common pregnancy symptoms may be improved with medication, it is crucial that you ask your physician before you take any over-the-counter or prescription medicine or even herbal remedies.  Everything a pregnant woman puts into her body can potentially affect the developing fetus.  Instead, try some of these tips to alleviate physical discomfort brought on by pregnancy:

CONSTIPATION

Constipation during pregnancy is triggered by a number of factors including hormones, vitamins (especially those containing iron) and pressure on the rectum from the growing uterus.

Increase fiber in your diet by eating complex carbohydrates, lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Try to drink at least 6 to 8 cups of water per day, as well as 1 cup of prune juice, which acts as a natural laxative. Exercise, like walking, also helps to alleviate constipation. If the problem does not resolve itself after trying the above mentioned remedies, than ask your physician about taking stool softeners, which may be safe during pregnancy.

FATIGUE

It is often said that a pregnant woman is eating and sleeping for two (or more if she is carrying multiples). The growing baby demands a lot of energy, which often makes women tired.

Women should get as much rest and sleep as possible, including naps during the day. In order to maintain balance and energy, it is recommended that women exercise, but they should be careful not to exert themselves too much.  If fatigue persists, your physician may recommend a blood test to rule out anemia or low iron levels.

SORE BREASTS

Women often feel changes in their breasts during pregnancy. As milk glands become bigger, breasts often become more tender and the appearance of the breasts may change with blue veins becoming more visible.

Women should wear a bra with good support and made of natural fibers like cotton.  If breasts are very tender, it is recommended that women wear a bra while sleeping.

FREQUENT URINATION

Women in their first and third trimesters tend to urinate often due to the growing baby exerting pressure on the bladder.

Pregnant women should not limit their fluid intake just to avoid frequent bathroom breaks. Increased frequency in urination is normal and will go away after the first trimester.  However, if there is any burning or pain while urinating, a woman should see her physician immediately.

HEARTBURN, NAUSEA, VOMITING

Pregnant women often experience stomach discomfort, especially during the first trimester. This is due to the changes in hormone levels. Nausea is especially common in the early weeks and often continues up until the 16^th week.

For heartburn, certain antacids are safe during pregnancy. Ask your provider before taking any over-the-counter antacids. For women who experience nausea or morning sickness, it is often helpful to keep crackers and dry cereal by your bedside and eat them before getting out of bed. Throughout the day, pregnant women benefit from eating smaller and more frequent meals approximately every 2-3 hours rather than 3 large meals.  Staying hydrated is important as well, and women should slowly sip water or clear juices throughout the day. If you cannot keep any food down or you vomit often, speak to your physician immediately.

DIZZINESS

Pregnant women may feel dizzy because more blood is being directed towards the growing uterus, which may cause blood pressure to decrease. Dizziness also may be exacerbated by not eating frequently – this can cause low blood sugar, which makes you feel lightheaded.

To avoid feeling dizzy, move slowly when standing from a sitting position and avoid abrupt movements. When resting, try to lie on the left side. Eat frequently to avoid drops in blood sugar and carry snacks.

HEADACHES

Headaches during pregnancy can be attributed to many factors including stress, sinus congestion, and in some cases, preeclampsia, a dangerous condition of hypertension occurring in pregnancy that needs to be monitored carefully by your provider.

Rest, proper nutrition and adequate fluids may help alleviate

headaches. If headaches persist along with nausea or blurry vision, you should contact your provider immediately since this could be a sign of a complication.

HEMORRHOIDS

As the baby increases in size, she may press on the rectum and vagina and cause swollen veins that manifest themselves as lumps in the rectal area.

To mitigate the chance of developing hemorrhoids, pregnant women should avoid becoming constipated by adhering to a  diet high in fiber and fluids.  Women should avoid sitting and standing for long periods of time and should avoid straining when going to the bathroom. Witch hazel or a Tucks pad can be used for relief. If hard stools are aggravating the hemorrhoids, consult your physician for specific suggestions.

These tips will hopefully equip you with a variety of ways to alleviate any discomfort during your pregnancy. As always, if you have questions, do not hesitate to consult with your physician or provider.