Pregnancy changes a woman’s body and can result in various discomforts as the body adapts to a growing baby. Common complaints experienced during pregnancy include morning sickness, back pain, difficulty sleeping, heartburn, and headaches. While some level of discomfort is expected, it’s important for mothers-to-be to properly manage these issues for both their baby’s and their own health. In fact, proactively addressing discomfort with the help of a Kissimmee OBGYN can actually help pregnant women maintain an active lifestyle and prevent unnecessary stress on the body.
Nausea/Morning Sickness
Morning sickness, characterized by nausea and vomiting, is a common symptom during pregnancy that typically occurs during the first trimester, though it can extend beyond that period for some women. The exact cause of morning sickness is not fully understood but is believed to be related to hormonal changes, particularly the increase in hCG and estrogen. Additionally, a heightened sense of smell and sensitivity to odors during pregnancy can also contribute to nausea.
Dietary Tips
Dietary adjustments can be very effective in managing morning sickness. Opting for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day helps maintain glucose levels. This prevents the stomach from becoming empty or too full, both of which are triggers for nausea.
It is also recommended to eat meals slowly, choosing mild, easily digestible foods. Bland options like plain crackers, toast, or boiled potatoes are gentler on the stomach. Spicy, greasy, or highly acidic foods should be avoided.
Remedies Like Ginger Supplements
Natural remedies such as ginger have been found to help reduce symptoms of morning sickness. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including supplements, teas, or ginger ale made with real ginger. Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific pregnancy needs.
Back Pain
As the uterus enlarges, the mother’s center of gravity will shift forward, placing increased strain on the back. This, combined with the weight gain from the developing baby, can strain the back. Changes in posture, as well as hormonal changes that loosen the ligaments and joints in the pelvic area, can also contribute to discomfort.
Posture and Support
Maintaining good posture is essential for reducing back pain. When sitting, using a chair with good back support or placing a small pillow behind the lower back can help. For sleeping or resting, supporting the belly with pillows and placing another pillow between the knees while lying on the side can provide relief.
Exercise Tips
Regular prenatal exercise, like water aerobics, can help strengthen the muscles that support the back and improve flexibility, which may help alleviate pain. These activities also promote overall well-being and can help with managing weight gain during pregnancy.
Massage or Heating Pads for Relief
Massage therapy can help relieve back pain, as it helps to relax tense muscles and improve circulation. It’s important to find a massage therapist who’s specifically trained in prenatal massage techniques to ensure your safety.
Additionally, using heating pads can be very helpful in providing temporary relief from back pain. Applying heat to the affected area can soothe stiff muscles and reduce discomfort. It’s crucial, however, to use heating pads with caution, avoiding high heat and never applying them directly to the abdomen.
Sleep Issues
A restful night can become more challenging as pregnancy progresses. One common complaint is hip and pelvic discomfort, especially for those further along, which makes finding a comfortable sleeping position challenging. Increased frequency of urination also interrupts sleep cycles for many expectant mothers. Other issues include heartburn, leg cramps, restless leg syndrome, and difficulty breathing from the weight of the uterus.
The recommended sleeping position during pregnancy is on the left side, as it takes pressure off the inferior vena cava vein and helps increase blood flow from the uterus and pelvis to support the developing baby. Sleeping with a body pillow between the knees and supporting the belly from below can alleviate hip pain. Placing an extra pillow behind the back is also helpful for achieving proper spinal alignment while side sleeping.
Manage Your Pregnancy Discomfort With The Help Of Our OBGYNs
Proactively addressing discomfort during pregnancy has numerous benefits for both you and your baby’s health and well-being. While some level of discomfort is expected, excessive pain or prolonged stress should not be deemed normal.