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Common Discomforts During Pregnancy

Symptoms of discomfort due to pregnancy vary from woman-to-woman. The following are some common discomforts. However, each mother-to-be may experience symptoms differently or not at all.

If you have questions about the discomforts you are feeling during pregnancy, call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Nausea and Vomiting

About half of all pregnant women experience nausea and sometimes vomiting in the first trimester, also called morning sickness because symptoms are often the most severe in the morning. Some women may have nausea and vomiting throughout the pregnancy.

Morning sickness seems to be aggravated by stress, traveling, and certain foods, such as spicy or fatty foods. Eating small meals several times a day may help lessen the symptoms. A diet high in protein and complex carbohydrates (such as whole wheat bread, pasta, bananas, and green, leafy vegetables) may also help reduce the severity of the nausea.

If vomiting is severe, causing a woman to lose fluids and lose weight, it may indicate a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. Hyperemesis can lead to dehydration and may require hospitalization for intravenous fluids and nutrition.

If you are experiencing constant or severe nausea or vomiting, it is important to talk with a doctor. Call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Fatigue

Considering that her body is working overtime to provide a nourishing environment for your baby, it is no wonder a pregnant woman often feels tired. In the first trimester, her blood volume and other fluids increase as her body adjusts to the pregnancy. Sometimes anemia, a reduction in the oxygen-carrying capability of red blood cells, is the underlying cause of the fatigue. A simple blood test performed at a prenatal visit can check to see if anemia is the cause of fatigue.

If you are concerned about your level of fatigue during your pregnancy, call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are common in late pregnancy because of increased pressure on the rectum and perineum, the increased blood volume, and the increased likelihood of becoming constipated as the pregnancy progresses.

Avoiding constipation and straining may help to prevent hemorrhoids, but is very important to check with your doctor before using any medication to treat constipation.

If you are considering using a medication to help treat constipation, call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins – swollen, purple veins – are common in the legs and around the vaginal opening during late pregnancy. In most cases, varicose veins are caused by the increased pressure on the legs and the pelvic veins, and by the increased blood volume.

Heartburn and Indigestion

Heartburn and indigestion, caused by pressure on the intestines and stomach that pushes stomach contents back up into the esophagus, can be prevented or reduced by eating smaller meals throughout the day and by avoiding lying down shortly after eating.

Bleeding Gums

Gums may become spongy as blood flow increases during pregnancy, causing them to bleed easily. A pregnant woman should continue to take care of her teeth and gums and go to the dentist for regular checkups. This symptom usually disappears after your baby is born.

Swelling/Fluid Retention

Mild swelling is common during pregnancy but severe swelling that persists may indicate 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 doctor about sudden swelling, especially in the hands or face, or rapid weight gain. Call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Skin Changes

Brown, blotchy patches may occur on the face, forehead, and/or cheeks due to fluctuations in hormone levels, including hormones that stimulate pigmentation of the skin. This is often called the mask of pregnancy, or chloasma, and often disappears soon after the delivery of your baby. Using sunscreen when outside can reduce the amount of darkening that occurs.

Pigmentation may also increase in the skin surrounding the nipples, called the areola. In addition, a dark line frequently appears down the middle of the abdomen. Freckles may darken, and moles may grow.

Stretch marks are also a skin condition that is common during pregnancy. These are pinkish marks that most often appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, or buttocks. Stretch marks are generally caused by a rapid increase in weight, and the marks usually fade after pregnancy.

Yeast Infections

Due to hormone changes and increased vaginal discharge, 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.

It is important to speak with a physician if you are considering using a medication to help treat a yeast infection during pregnancy. Call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

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.

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.

If you are considering using a medication to help treat constipation, call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Backache

As a woman's weight increases during pregnancy, her balance changes, and 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.

Dizziness

Dizziness during pregnancy is common and 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.

Pica

Pica is a rare craving to eat substances other than food, such as dirt, clay, or coal. The craving may indicate a nutritional deficiency.

If you are experiencing this condition during your pregnancy you should talk with your doctor. Call (314) 996-5433 or email us to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

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 alleviate headache symptoms. Always consult your physician before taking any medication to help with headaches during pregnancy. If you have a severe headache or a headache that does not go away, call your doctor as it could be a sign of preeclampsia.