Your body is an amazing system, specially designed to help you bring a new life into the world. Yet every pregnant woman has times when she thinks her body is betraying her. Here is a quick look at some of the most common physical complaints of pregnancy, categorized by their typical stage, and what you can do about them. If these tips don't help, be sure to discuss stubborn symptoms with a member of your healthcare team.
| WHAT YOU'RE FEELING | WHAT THE CAUSE COULD BE | WHAT YOU CAN DO |
| Fatigue/tiredness | Physical demands of pregnancy. | Ask for extra help as you prepare for the birth of your baby. Go to bed early (avoid caffeine). |
| Heartburn | Stomach is being pushed by growing uterus. Hormones relax the stomach opening, allowing acid to enter the esophagus. Delayed stomachemptying. | Eat slowly and enjoy small, frequent meals. Avoid fatty or spicy foods. Stay in upright position after eating. If heartburn occurs while sleeping, prop yourself up in bed. Avoid caffeine. No Rolaids. |
| Constipation | Pressure on intestines as the uterus grows. Slower movement of food through the digestive tract due to the hormone progesterone. Decreased physical activity. | Drink eight to ten glasses of water a day. Eat more fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Increase physical activity. Find a bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to go – don't "hold it". If the problem persists, notify a member of your healthcare team. |
| Hemorrhoids | Constipation. Straining to move bowels. Increased pressure on blood vessels and pressure of uterus on bowels. | Avoid constipation and straining to move bowels. Perform Kegel exercises to increase circulation. Use Tucks or other appropriate pads for cleansing. (If inflamed, apply hydrocortisone cream sparingly.) |
| Backache | Pregnancy hormones cause softening of ligaments and joints. Posture changes due to increased weight of uterus. Standing or sitting for long periods. | Practice good body mechanics and posture. Do not bend over to lift; squat instead. If standing for long periods, put one foot on a low box or stool. Change position frequently. Perform pelvic tilt or rock, knee-chest position. Wear low-heeled shoes. Sleep with a pillow between your knees. |
| Swelling (Note: If swelling is dramatic or persistent, please talk to your provider) | Pressure of enlarged uterus on blood vessels. Standing or sitting for long periods. | Minor swelling is a common discomfort of pregnancy and perfectly normal. To minimize problems, drink six to eight glasses of water every day. Elevate legs and rest more. Avoid canned, processed, high-sodium foods. Wear support hose. |
| Numbness/Tingling |
Arms/wrist: Possible carpal tunnel
syndrome. Legs/thighs: Pressure on nerves from growing uterus. Swelling in extremities. |
Cross arms and place hands on shoulders or elbows. Hold or hug pillow while sleeping. Wear wrist brace. |
Screenings, labs, tests, and vaccinations
Warning signs and complications
Common pregnancy discomforts
Find a provider for your baby
FHN Memorial Hospital
1045 West Stephenson Street
Freeport, IL 61032
815-599-6221