Common Pregnancy Complaints

Common Pregnancy Discomforts

From aches and pains to mood swings, your body goes through continuous change while your little one is growing inside of you. Here are some of the most common complaints and discomforts that women report throughout their pregnancy and how you can alleviate them.

Morning Sickness

According to the American Pregnancy Association, more than 60% of women will experience morning (or any time of day) sickness throughout their pregnancy. However, there is no evidence to suggest what actually causes this nausea and/or vomiting. For many women, this is the most prevalent during the first trimester, but it can last throughout the entire pregnancy.

Here are some tips you can try to help keep the queasiness at bay:

• Eat protein-rich foods
• Eat and drink things that contain ginger
• Stay hydrated
• Don’t get out of bed too quickly—this can induce nausea

If you continue to experience severe nausea and/or vomiting, you should speak with your doctor to discuss treatment options. Also, consult your doctor before taking over-the-counter medications.

Heartburn and Indigestion

When you’re pregnant, your growing baby can increase pressure on your organs in the digestive tract, which in turn can push stomach content back up into the throat. A few simple solutions for this uncomfortable sensation are:

• Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day
• Avoid eating before bed
• Prop your head up with a pillow to elevate it above your stomach
• Avoid spicy foods

Before using antacids or other over-the-counter solutions, be sure to consult with your doctor.

Hemorrhoids and Constipation

Similarly to how the pressure put on your digestive system can cause heartburn and indigestion, it can also cause constipation and hemorrhoids. In fact, more than 70% of pregnant women experience this issue at some point in their pregnancy. The pressure placed on your rectum and higher blood volume can cause constipation throughout pregnancy and hemorrhoids later on in pregnancy.

Avoiding constipation can help to avoid the straining that can cause hemorrhoids. Try to following tips to help you avoid constipation:

• Eat foods high in fiber
• Stay hydrated
• Take a pregnancy-safe probiotic

Before you take any supplements or over-the-counter medications, please consult with your doctor to make sure they are safe for you and your little one.

Swelling

From swollen feet and ankles to just feeling puffy in general, mild swelling is a common issue women experience during pregnancy. Some tips you can use to keep swelling and inflammation at bay include:

• Elevating your feet
• Wearing supportive shoes
• Avoid standing for long periods of time
• Minimize time outdoors during hot weather
• Use a cold compress on swollen areas
• Stay hydrated

While this is normal, if you experience severe swelling, it is important that you consult your doctor immediately as it can point to preeclampsia, which is a rapidly progressive condition that can affect the mother and their unborn baby.

Labor & Delivery in Duluth, Minnesota

At St. Luke's Birthing Center, we are committed to providing you with the customized birth experience you deserve. We make it a priority to exceed the highest standards of care and seek the training needed to best serve our families.

To learn more about our labor and delivery services or schedule an appointment, visit our website or give us a call at (218) 249-4000.