It always amazes me when I think about what a woman’s body can endure while creating a new life! It sure is a lot of work but there are some things you can do to make the process of growing your little bundle of joy a little bit more comfortable. Or at least, a little less uncomfortable?! Maybe you remember this post I wrote about how I did not enjoy being pregnant?
Today, I have Nancy from Hi Five Baby here to give us all some wonderful advice when it comes to dealing with the common discomforts of pregnancy. I dealt with all of these discomforts in full force, so I am taking notes for the next one! When that happens 😉
Author: Nancy Shaw – Hi Five Baby
On the path toward childbirth, you’ll encounter some discomforts that can leave you feeling grouchy and sapped of energy. In your pre-pregnancy days, you could get rid of headaches, colds, and other nuisances with one or more medications.
The problem is, such drugs are usually considered off-limits while you’re pregnant. Many can have an adverse effect on your unborn baby.
But not all medications pose the same risks. Some are relatively safe and can be taken in moderation. It’s important to realize, however, that some medicinal solutions to common discomforts seem safe, but pose a danger.
Below, we’ll help you sort through them. We’ll present five familiar ailments you’re likely to experience during your pregnancy and offer a few proven ways to get rid of them. Here are the Common Discomforts During Pregnancy;
1 – Nausea
Nausea stemming from morning sickness affects a large number of women during the first trimester (sometimes, it lasts longer). It is usually accompanied by vomiting. While you may be tempted to ask your obstetrician for medicine to minimize the sensation, he or she is unlikely to prescribe it.
A better solution is to make changes to your eating habits. Rather than following a traditional 3-meal schedule, eat several small meals throughout the day. This will give your body a chance to digest food more easily, and might reduce your nausea.
2 – Colds
Before you became pregnant, the effects of a cold could be addressed with one of the several remedies from your medicine cabinet. Most of those options are unavailable, especially during the first trimester. The first three months are the period during which your baby develops the quickest. Most drugs from your medicine cabinet pose their greatest risk to your baby during this time.
Instead, make sure you drink plenty of water and other fluids. Hydration, always important while you’re pregnant, is even more so when you’re battling a cold since it can reduce your symptoms. You can also use nose sprays to help clear up congested passages.
3 – Headaches
Headaches can occur for a variety of reasons when you’re pregnant. For example, getting too little sleep at night can cause a dull throb the following day. Feeling overwhelmed, whether from your growing “to do” lists or the responsibility of being a new mom, can trigger a tension headache. Some types of foods and beverages can also have an effect.
In the past, you may have relied on something containing Ibuprofen, such as Motrin, Bayer, or Excedrin IB. When you’re expecting, you’ll need another remedy. If your head hurts from lack of sleep, get more rest. Doing so may be difficult given your responsibilities, but make it a priority. If stress is the cause of your headache, take steps to reduce your anxiety. A warm bath with candles and your favorite music may be an ideal solution.
4 – Sore Muscles
You’re likely to experience sore muscles as your unborn baby develops since the extra weight will place more stress on your body. Your muscles may also become sore from other factors, such as a brisk walk.
The good news is that most of the soreness will dissipate over time (a few days) as your muscles heal themselves. But you can reduce the discomfort in the meantime by exposing the affected area to heat. A warm compress on the area will encourage blood flow, and reduce inflammation.
5 – Persistent Coughing
Most cough medications contain dextromethorphan, an effective cough suppressant. The problem is, dextromethorphan may pose risks. Though clinical studies have produced unclear results, it is telling that many kids drink cough medicine for an instant high. Unless your obstetrician approves your use of cough medications, you and your baby might be better off taking a natural approach.
Steam will help introduce moisture back into your lungs and throat. Unless there is an underlying infection, this may be enough to cure your cough.
6-Some other problems you may experience are swelling of the feet and ankles, extreme fatigue, and back pain.
Some women complain of itchy skin as well. Some stomach discomfort during pregnancy occurs simply because the skin is stretching out so far to accommodate your growing baby. This can lead to some itchiness, which is easily remedied with a mild cream.
Swelling can be managed by elevating the affected areas frequently and by drinking a lot of water. Try to schedule regular naps and get plenty of sleep at night. Back pain can be controlled to an extent, simply by never sitting or standing for too long.
7-Like most of the common discomforts, a stomach ache during pregnancy is to be expected at times.
You can be sure your doctor will be familiar with all of these conditions and will be able to advise how to treat them best. Fatigue, swelling, back pain and stomach discomfort during pregnancy are extremely common and can usually be dealt with using a host of simple remedies.
Being pregnant can be challenging when you are coping with the seven ailments described above. Once your little one is born, however, you’re unlikely to remember them.
 Nancy Shaw is the founder of HiFiveBaby where she writes about common problems encountered by parents and how to deal with them, motherhood in general and FAQs about babies, toddlers and kids. She provides scientific and medical basis and also her personal experience as a mom to a wonderful toddler. Now you can explore the joy of parenthood with ease! You can also find her on Twitter.