Pregnancy Symptoms: What to look for?
Women go through many changes during pregnancy both physically and emotionally. Here are some common symptoms and how you can make yourself more comfortable during these nine months of pregnancy:
1. Fatigue
Fatigue is common in early part and at the end of pregnancy. You body is going through many changes, both physically and emotionally, to build this tiny human being growing inside you. You may feel extremely fatigued after doing things you are use to doing every day. Try to take naps. Also, starting an exercise program during pregnancy will also help to increase your energy levels.
2. Morning Sickness
In the beginning months, some women experience morning sickness due to hormone changes that occur in your body during pregnancy. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, or you may just feel like you have the flu. Unfortunately there is no cure for morning sickness, but eating small frequent meals may help.
3. Heartburn
A burning feeling in your chest and stomach, is a common complaint during pregnancy. As your baby grows inside you, and organs get pushed around to make room for baby, there is less room in your body to digest foods. You stomach may produce more acids to digest the foods you eat. To ease heartburn during pregnancy, try eating small frequent meals throughout the day. This will make it easier for your body to digest the foods you eat. Try to avoid any foods that you know upset your stomach. Also be sure to check with your doctor about taking an antacid to relieve any symptoms you may have.
4. Back Pain
To carry the growing baby inside you, you will notice a change in your posture, and the way you walk. Towards the end of pregnancy, with the added weight of baby on your hips, you can expect to feel some back pain. This is common in pregnancy. Long back massages from your partner and warm baths may help. (Make sure the bath water is not hot) Check with your doctor about taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help ease your headaches.
5. Headaches
Many women experience headaches throughout their pregnancy. Most likely it has to do with hormone levels and blood circulation, both of which increase throughout pregnancy. Stress may contribute to headaches as well. Discovering that you are pregnant is a life-changing occurrence, and will cause some stress and maybe some uncertainty. Exercise and cutting down of caffeine may help to reduce headaches. Check with your doctor about taking an over the counter pain reliever as this will help ease your headaches and help other aches and pains of pregnancy as well.
6. Sciatica
Beginning in the second trimester, some women experience a sharp shooting pain, which runs from their hip down the buttocks and the back of the leg. This pain is called Sciatica. It is caused from the weight of the uterus on the sciatica nerve. To relive the pain, try wearing a maternity belt. This will help lift the uterus off the nerve. Also, try lying on your left side to relive any pressure the uterus is putting on the nerve. Lying on your left side also helps with circulation and oxygen flow to the baby.
7. Constipation
Another common symptom of pregnancy, constipation can be very bothersome for pregnant women. Drink plenty of water, and eat whole grains fruits and vegetables to stay regular. Ask your doctor about taking an over the counter medication to help with constipation.
