Soothing Those Discomforts Associated with Pregnancy

Soothing Those Discomforts Associated with Pregnancy

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Though women would love to tell you that the feeling of being pregnant is just the most wonderful thing in the world… unfortunately it does have its issues. First comes the nausea, then the swelling, the dreaded hemorrhoids, and all the sleepless nights. We all know the discomforts, yet we still expect the glow of the pregnant woman to light the world. It can be a lot of pressure on an expectant mother… especially the first time moms.

Sometimes discomfort is brought on by outsiders. The pregnant belly used to be a sacred thing between husband and wife. Now, we see pregnant bare belly shots all over the internet. This gives people the idea that all women like an exposed belly, giving people the freedom to come up and start touching your belly. Pregnancy does not reduce the personal space zone. If you are a pregnant woman, you have every right to set boundaries. Just because you are pregnant, does not mean you have to allow your belly to be touched. Just because a bystander is impressed with the miracle of life, does not mean they have a right to touch someone else’s belly. Use a little common sense and a lot of manners. Both parties should be approving of such a private, personal expression. You are feeling a new life move. Ponder the miracle of life and don’t linger long.

Other discomforts and tips for relief:

Nausea and Heartburn

• Rise slowly of the morning giving the stomach acids time to settle.
• Eat dry bland foods in the morning. (dry toast, crackers… etc)
• Avoid greasy and spicy foods.
• Eat smaller but more frequent meals throughout the day with plenty of liquids.
• Avoid food that you know upset your stomach prior to pregnancy.
• You may notice that certain smells cause nausea. The best thing to do is try to avoid them as much as possible. (Food cooking, perfumes, air fresheners, gasoline)

Swelling

• Avoid staying in one position too long. (Sit, stand, lay, and repeat) If you must sit for an extended period, then prop up your legs every so often for a short period of time.
• Avoid tight fitting socks and hosiery.
• Avoid sitting with your legs crossed.
• Report it to your doctor if you notice more than a little swelling of the face, hands, or feet.

Fatigue and Sleeping Issues

• Take your prenatal vitamins regularly.
• Exercise regularly. If you don’t feel up to a full blown workout then at least stretch for 15-20 minutes a day. Stretching releases endorphins which per Healthy Living, “tend to make you happier, stronger, calmer and more confident.” Healthy Living recommends stretching after exercising as well, “Stretching can help release lactate (lactic acid) buildup following exercise.” Fit Day recommends stretching to loosen muscles, increase flexibility and range of motion, improve posture, and remove toxin buildup in muscles.
• Avoid caffeine.
• Don’t over exert yourself throughout the day.
• Seek out sources of relaxation. Try meditation or soothing music such as nature sounds.
• Make yourself comfortable in the bed. Use as many or as few pillows as necessary.

Constipation and Hemorrhoids

• Drink plenty of water, fruit juice, milk, and broths. (beef or chicken)
• Increase fiber in your diet. Include whole grain products such as those found in wheat bread, oatmeal, and bran cereals.
• Soak in a warm relaxing tub as needed.
• Increase fruit and vegetable intake.
• Never strain or sit for extended periods of time on the toilet.
• Use over the counter aids as needed.

To sum it all up, keep those discomforts in check by staying active, exercising, eating a well-balanced diet, not over exerting, and spending time focusing on relaxation. Nine months only seems like a long time when you are pregnant. As soon as your bundle of joy arrives, it won’t be anytime before you will look back and say, “My baby is a year old! Where did the time go?”