Pregnancy and Antenatal Care � Common Complaints During Pregnancy

Common Complaints During Pregnancy

Nausea and Morning Sickness - Nausea is very common in the early weeks of pregnancy and can happen any time during the day. Having regular small meals that are high in carbohydrate can help to reduce morning sickness. It usually disappears around the 12^th to 14^th week of your pregnancy.

Passing urine frequently - The exact cause for it in early pregnancy is not known but later it is the result of the womb pressing on the bladder. If you have any pain while passing urine or pass any blood in the urine, you may have a urinary tract infection and should visit your doctor.

Backache -This is quite common especially during the third trimester. It can be extremely helpful for you to wear flat shoes, exercise regularly, sit with your back supported, bend your knees when picking something up from the floor, avoid stooping and use a firm mattress.

• Constipation - Eat foods rich in fibre like fruit, vegetables, figs and prunes. Have a lot of water as your stool is absorbing much more water than normal. A hot drink in the morning can also help. Walking for 20 minutes a day may be suggested by your doctor.
• Cramps - It usually occurs at night and affects the legs or feet. It may be caused by lack of calcium. Your doctor may give you calcium supplements.
• Headache - Some pregnant women suffer from constant headaches. If your headaches are frequent and bad later in pregnancy this maybe a sign of high blood pressure.

• Swollen feet and Ankles - Swelling can sometimes be the sign of a condition called pre-eclampsia. Others signs are high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
• Vaginal bleeding - Bleeding from the vagina is a danger signal at any time in pregnancy. Contact your doctor as soon as possible. In early pregnancy, bleeding may be the start of a miscarriage.
• Piles - Piles are congested veins around the back passage. It can be caused by constipation and straining, so eat a high fiber diet. Piles can also occur due to pressure of the baby's head and nearly always disappear within a week or two of delivery.

A final word

Pregnancy and childbirth are very demanding on your body's metabolism. The birth of your child may also turn your lives up side down. However, the pleasures of parenthood will far outweigh all the problems you may face during pregnancy.

A healthy diet, regular exercise, a positive frame of mind and regular check ups can lead you on your way to having a healthy, happy baby.

References:

1. Working Woman�s Pregnancy: Hilary Boyd
2. A Rough Guide to Pregnancy and birth: Kaz Cooke
3. Conception, pregnancy and birth: Dr. Miriam Stoppard
4. New Pregnancy and birth: Dr. Miriam Stoppard