All pregnant women will agree that the first
few months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least. You may experience
morning sickness, swelling in the legs and ankles, abdominal pains and
cramps, heartburn, constipation, fatigue, bladder problems, and a myriad
of problems in between. The goal of this article is to help you deal with
these issues and feel better.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is probably the most common of the pregnancy symptoms.
Don't be fooled; morning sickness nausea will come at any time
of the day, not just in the morning. To help prevent nausea in
the morning, wake up slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or
dry cereal before getting out of bed. Avoid warm places; heat
can increase nauseas feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening
windows, or turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the microwave
will emit fewer odors than cooking in the oven or stovetop. Eat
something salty before meals, avoid greasy or spicy foods, and
try not to drink fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out
throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals. Try taking your
prenatals later in the day, and ask your doctor about vitamin
B6 and ginger supplements. Sipping on fizzy water with lemon
in it, or non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can
help calm nausea.
Abdominal Pain or Cramps
There are many changes going on in your body. A lot of stress is
being put on your abdominal muscles, which can cause sharp pains
and cramps. To relieve these pains, try using a warm heating
pad. To prevent these pains, try strengthening your abdominal
muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out which kinds of exercises
are best for you.
Swelling
Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some swelling. Wearing
support hose can help to control your weight gain in your legs
and ankles. Avoid standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting
shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for pregnant women.
Avoid diuretics, as these will lead to increased swelling. Stay
off your feet as much as possible, and elevate your legs when
sitting. Lying down is even better than sitting.
Constipation
To combat constipation, you should exercise regularly, drink plenty
of water, and eat lots of fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables,
and whole grain cereals and breads.
Fatigue
Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to aches and pains or
vivid dreams, or simply from too much stress. The most effective
method for dealing with fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take
several naps during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including
about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency is a leading
cause of fatigue, so be sure to get enough. Although it may seem
counter-productive, fatigue can often be relieved by exercising.
Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you feeling energized.
Heartburn
Many of the remedies associated with nausea will also help you
deal with heartburn. In addition, chew fennel or papaya enzymes,
and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Bladder Problems
Bladder problems can be among the most bothersome of pregnancy
related issues. First and foremost, drink plenty of water. Avoid
junk food, refined starches, coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high
in acidic content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be sure
to empty your bladder and wash with water after intercourse.
Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Try to include
cabbage, leeks, and garlic in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry
juice every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.
Some women get more problems than others, but they generally get
a little easier during the second trimester. In general, just make
sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise
regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep an optimistic
mindset.
About the author:
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor
of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community
for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please
visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
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