For some, pregnancy can be really tough. Some women experience some of these discomforts during pregnancy but there are some who are lucky to be discomfort free especially on their first trimester. Typical symptom women complain on their first trimester is morning sickness or nausea. Here, I have some tips to relieve that plus more discomforts and ways to help you. It is nice to know ways to help relieve these symptoms and know when to call your healthcare provider.
|
Discomforts |
Occurs during |
Things you can do |
| Nausea and Vomiting | First and subsides on the third month | · Eat small, frequent, low fat meals
· Eat dry crackers before you get out of bed · Dink liquids between meals rather than with meals · Avoid fried and spicy foods · Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after getting out of bed · Ask your doctor if you need to take vitamins that could help your nausea |
| Syncope (temporary loss of consciousness)
“fainting” or “passing out” |
First trimester
|
· Sit on a chair with your feet elevated
· Change positions slowly. |
| Important: Avoid lying on your back (supine position) on your second and third trimester. This places you at risk for supine hypotension because of the uterus putting pressure on your inferior vena cava (the largest vein in your heart). You have to turn to your side if this happens. | ||
| Urinary frequency and urgency | First and third trimesters | · Limit your fluid intake before you go to bed
· Drink no less than 2000 mL of fluid during the day. Water is best. · Sleep in side-lying position · Do Kegel exercises |
| Fatigue | First and third trimesters | · Frequent rest periods throughout your day
· Regular exercise · Use correct posture and body mechanics |
| Breast tenderness | First through the third trimester | · Wear supportive bra |
| Heartburn | Second and third trimesters | · Eat small, frequent meals
· Make sure you sit upright for 30 minutes after each meal · Avoid fried, fatty and spicy foods · If your heartburn is getting worse, consult your doctor first before taking antacids. |
| Stuffy nose | First through third trimester | · Use a humidifier
· Consult your doctor first before you take any nasal spray or antihistamines. |
| Ankle swelling | Second and third trimesters | · Elevate your legs
· Wear supportive stockings · Avoid sitting or standing for long periods |
| Headaches | Second and third trimesters | · Apply cool washcloth on your forehead
· Consult your doctor first before taking any medications |
| Hemorrhoids | Second and third trimesters | · Eat high fiber foods
· Do warm sitz bath · Sit on a soft pillow · Consult your doctor first before putting any ointments or suppositories |
| Constipation | Second and third trimesters | · Eat high fiber foods
· Drink plenty of water (2000ml per day) · Exercise regularly · Consult your doctor first before taking stool softeners, laxatives or enemas |
| Back pain | Second and third trimesters | · Frequent rest periods
· Use correct posture and body mechanics · Perform pelvic tilt exercises · Wear flats or low-heeled shoes |
| Shortness of breath | Second and third trimesters | · Frequent rest periods
· Avoid overexertion |
This information is just a guide, still always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Seek professional medical care if your symptoms worsens.
