10 Common Pregnancy Discomforts And How To Cope With Them
Pregnancy causes a lot of physical changes in women's body. These changes often cause discomforts that are sometimes too hard to bear. The most common discomforts are listed in the following slides accompanied by a few guidelines on how to cope with them.
10. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting is a common challenge that pregnant women deal with, especially in the first trimester of the pregnancy. It can be avoided by eating small frequent meals, avoiding greasy, high-fat foods, consuming dry starch foods such as crackers and cereals, and eating high protein snacks.
[caption id="attachment_2960" align="aligncenter" width="648"]
9. Dizziness
This can be caused by low blood sugar or a sudden change of position. Pregnant women are prone to low blood sugar and it is important that they carry snacks at all times such as fruits and juices.
[caption id="attachment_2968" align="aligncenter" width="620"]
8. Constipation
The pregnancy hormones cause the muscles in the bowels to relax on the job which then allow food to hang around longer in the digestive tract. Pregnant women should intake as much fluids as they can and increase the amount of fiber in their diet.
[caption id="attachment_2970" align="aligncenter" width="500"]
7. Fatigue
Fatigue is mostly common during the first trimester. Short power naps will help, as well as a warm bath or a hot drink that would help women to relax and get ready to sleep.
[caption id="attachment_2961" align="aligncenter" width="650"]
6. Breast Tenderness
The breasts are enlarged in size and tend to be quite tender. To feel more comfortable, pregnant women may wear a good support bra.
[caption id="attachment_2962" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
5. Frequent Urination
Frequent urination is most pronounced during the first and last trimester of pregnancy. This is normal, and no pregnant women should restrict her fluid intake in an effort to lessen the frequency of urination.
[caption id="attachment_2963" align="aligncenter" width="657"]
4. Leg Cramps
It is during night is generally when leg cramps occur. Increasing the calcium intake can be a good remedy.
[caption id="attachment_2964" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
3. Heartburn
Heartburn is common among pregnant women, and is generally harmless. However, the burning sensation that often extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat is undeniably uncomfortable. Avoiding fatty foods and eating small frequent meals will help prevent or alleviate heartburn.
[caption id="attachment_2965" align="aligncenter" width="720"]
2. Backache
Lower back pain is caused by the shift in posture necessitated by carrying extra weight in front. Pregnant women should avoid standing in one position for too long. Exercising can also alleviate back pain and strengthen the lower back muscle.
[caption id="attachment_2966" align="aligncenter" width="1633"]
1. Swelling of the Hands and Feet
This is common in the later stage of pregnancy. Legs and feet should be elevated to improve the circulation of blood. Adequate fluid intake is also important.
[caption id="attachment_2967" align="aligncenter" width="849"]