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Common
Pregnancy Problems
All pregnant women will agree that the first few
months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least.
You may experience morning sickness, swelling in the
legs and ankles, abdominal pains and cramps, heartburn,
constipation, fatigue, bladder problems, and a myriad of
problems in between. The goal of this article is to help
you deal with these issues and feel better.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is probably the most common of the
pregnancy symptoms. Don't be fooled; morning sickness
nausea will come at any time of the day, not just in the
morning. To help prevent nausea in the morning, wake up
slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or dry |
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cereal before getting out of bed.
Avoid warm places; heat can increase nauseas
feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening windows,
or
turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the
microwave will emit fewer odors than cooking in the
oven or stovetop. Eat something salty before meals,
avoid greasy or spicy foods, and try not to drink
fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out
throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals.
Try taking your prenatal later in the day, and ask
your doctor about vitamin B6 and ginger supplements.
Sipping on fizzy water with lemon in it, or
non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can
help calm nausea.
Abdominal Pain or Cramps
There are many changes going on in your body. A lot
of stress is being put on your abdominal muscles,
which can cause sharp pains and cramps. To relieve
these pains, try using a warm heating pad. To
prevent these pains, try strengthening your
abdominal muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out
which kinds of exercises are best for you.
Swelling
Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some
swelling. Wearing support hose can help to control
your weight gain in your legs and ankles. Avoid
standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting
shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for
pregnant women. Avoid diuretics, as these will lead
to increased swelling. Stay off your feet as much as
possible, and elevate your legs when sitting. Lying
down is even better than sitting.
Constipation
To combat constipation, you should exercise
regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat lots of
fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables, and
whole grain cereals and breads.
Fatigue
Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to aches
and pains or vivid dreams, or simply from too much
stress. The most effective method for dealing with
fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take several naps
during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including
about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency
is a leading cause of fatigue, so be sure to get
enough. Although it may seem counter-productive,
fatigue can often be relieved by exercising.
Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you
feeling energized.
Heartburn
Many of the remedies associated with nausea will
also help you deal with heartburn. In addition, chew
fennel or papaya enzymes, and avoid wearing tight
clothing.
Bladder Problems.
Bladder problems can be among the most bothersome of
pregnancy related issues. First and foremost, drink
plenty of water. Avoid junk food, refined starches,
coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high in acidic
content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be sure
to empty your bladder and wash with water after
intercourse. Wipe from front to back after using the
bathroom. Try to include cabbage, leeks, and garlic
in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry juice
every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.
Some women get more problems than others, but they
generally get a little easier during the second
trimester. In general, just make sure to get plenty
of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise
regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep
an optimistic mindset.
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