Common Symptoms of Pregnancy
Nausea: Most common during the first trimester, but it can be throughout pregnancy. Lessen it by eating five to six smaller meals throughout the day. Eat bland foods such as cereal, dry toast, plain popcorn or crackers and drink bubbly beverages such as 7-Up or ginger ale. Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea.
Abdominal Cramps: Empty your bladder and drink one to two glasses of water. If you are less than 36 weeks pregnant and having more than six contractions an hour after taking these steps, contact the office or go to the hospital.
Leg Cramps: Prevent leg cramps by eating potassium and calcium-rich foods. These include: whole grains, dark green vegetables, bananas, beans and low-fat milk. Also, make sure you are drinking plenty of water.
Aches and Pains: Backaches are common as your baby grows. You may feel pulling and stretching in the pelvic area due to weight gain, loose joints or pressure from your baby’ s head. Take a load off your feet by resting with them up, and also practice good posture. Treat discomfort and pain with heat and Tylenol.
Constipation: To help with this common problem, drink plenty of water. Also eat high-fiber fruits, vegetables and whole grains. If you develop hemorrhoids, try Epsom salt baths three to four times a day, 15 minutes at a time. If discomfort persists, contact the office.
Discharge: An increase in white, milky vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy. If it becomes watery or smells bad, call the office or go to the hospital.
Heartburn: It happens more at the end of pregnancy, when your baby is largest. You can avoid much of this discomfort by eating five to six smaller meals a day. Specifically, do not lay down( or go to sleep) after eating.
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