Symptoms of discomfort caused by pregnancy will vary from different woman.
The following are some common symptoms that maybe experience by the mother to – be. They might have different experience or might not have any at all.
1. Nausea and vomiting
Most of the pregnant woman will experience nausea and sometimes vomiting in the first trimester. It is also named as morning sickness as the symptoms are more severe in the morning.
Morning sickness may be caused due to the changes in the hormones level during pregnancy. It will be made worse by stress, traveling and certain food. For example, spicy or oily food. Eating a small meal several times in the day may help to lessen the symptoms. A diet that introduce high protein and complex carbohydrates can be used to relieve in the severity of nausea.
For severe vomiting, it may cause a woman to lose weight and fluid. It may be signs to the condition of Hyperemesis gravidarum. Hyperemesis may lead to dehydration and hospitalization may be needed for nutrition and intravenous fluids.
Go to the doctor when you have a constant or severe nausea and vomiting.
2. Fatigue
The body will feel tired as it works overtime order to provide a nourishing environment for the fetus. In the beginning, the blood volume and the other fluid will increase as her body is adjusting to the pregnancy. Sometimes, fatigue may be caused by anemia, it is a reduction of oxygen – carrying capability of the red blood cells. Usually due to the low level of iron.
3. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are common in late pregnancy. Avoiding constipation and straining may help to prevent Hemorrhoids. Always check with your healthcare provider or midwife before using any medicine to treat this condition.
4. Varicose veins
Swollen or purple veins are common in the legs and around the vaginal opening in the late pregnancy. In most of the cases, varicose veins are caused by the increasing of pressure on the legs and pelvic veins. It can be also caused by an increasing of blood volume.
5. Heartburn and indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion, caused by pressure on the intestines and stomach (which, in turn, pushes stomach contents back up into the esophagus).
It can be prevented or reduced by eating smaller meals throughout the day and by avoiding lying down shortly after eating.
6. Bleeding gums
Gums may become spongier as blood flow increases during pregnancy. This causes them to bleed easily. A pregnant woman should continue to take care of her teeth and gums and go to the dentist for regular check-ups. This symptom usually disappears after pregnancy.
7. Pica
Pica is a rare craving to eat substances other than food, like dirt, clay, or coal.
The craving may indicate a nutritional deficiency.
8. Swelling or fluid retention
Mild swelling is common during pregnancy, but severe swelling that lasts may be a sign of preeclampsia (abnormal condition marked by high blood pressure).
Lying on the left side, elevating the legs, and wearing support hose and comfortable shoes may help to relieve the swelling.
Be sure to notify your healthcare provider or midwife about sudden swelling, especially in the hands or face, or rapid weight gain.
9. Skin changes
Due to the fluctuations in hormone levels, including hormones that stimulate pigmentation of the skin, brown, blotchy patches may happen on the face, forehead, and/or cheeks. This is often called the mask of pregnancy. It often disappears soon after delivery. Using sunscreen when outside can reduce the amount of darkening.
10. Stretch marks
Pinkish stretch marks may appear on the stomach, breasts, thighs, or buttocks. Stretch marks are generally caused by a rapid increase in weight. The marks usually fade after pregnancy.
11. Yeast infection
Due to hormone changes and increased vaginal discharge, also called leukorrhea, a pregnant woman is more susceptible to yeast infections. Yeast infections are characterized by a thick, whitish discharge from the vagina and itching. Yeast infections are highly treatable. Always speak to your healthcare provider before taking any medicine for this condition.
12. Congested or bloody nose
During pregnancy, the lining of the respiratory tract receives more blood, often making it more congested. This congestion can also cause stuffiness in the nose or nosebleeds. In addition, small blood vessels in the nose are easily damaged due to the increased blood volume, causing nosebleeds.
13. Constipation
Increased pressure from the pregnancy on the rectum and intestines can interfere with digestion and subsequent bowel movements. In addition, hormone changes may slow down the food being processed by the body. Increasing fluids, regular exercise, and increasing the fiber in your diet are some of the ways to prevent constipation. Always check with your healthcare provider or midwife before taking any medicine for this condition.
14. Backache
As a woman's weight increases, her balance changes. Her center of gravity is pulled forward, straining her back. Pelvic joints that begin to loosen in preparation for childbirth also contribute to this back strain. Proper posture and proper lifting techniques throughout the pregnancy can help reduce the strain on the back.
15. Dizziness
Dizziness during pregnancy is a common symptom. It may be caused by:
· Low blood pressure due to the uterus compressing major arteries
· Low blood sugar
· Low iron
· Quickly moving from a sitting position to a standing position
· Dehydration
To prevent injury from falling during episodes of dizziness, a pregnant woman should stand up slowly and hold on to the walls and other stable structures for support and balance.
16. Headaches
Hormonal changes may be the cause of headaches during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Rest, proper nutrition, and adequate fluid intake may help ease headache symptoms. Always talk with your healthcare provider or midwife before taking any medicine for this condition. If you have a severe headache or a headache that does not go away, call your healthcare provider. It may be a sign of preeclampsia.
Retrieved from https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=85&contentid=p01207
Comments