Ah, the joys of pregnancy – the glowing skin, the miraculous baby bump, and the… not-so-fun side-effects? If you’re a mama-to-be, you’re likely no stranger to the minor woes that can come with growing a tiny human. From the dreaded morning sickness to the unmentionable – but totally normal – pregnancy constipation, these little challenges can sometimes feel like anything but minor.
But take heart fellow expecting mamas, with the right strategies, you can tackle these minor pregnancy disorders and keep feeling your best throughout your journey to motherhood. In this post, we’ll dive into some of the most common minor issues you may face, and share practical tips to help you manage them with ease.
One of the most common and well-known discomforts of pregnancy is morning sickness. This nausea and vomiting can occur at any time of the day, and it can be debilitating for some women. To manage this, try keeping crackers or ginger supplements. Practise oral hygiene and stay hydrated. Identify your triggers – spices, dusty environment, etc. – and avoid them as much as possible.
Another common issue is back pain, which can be caused by the added weight and strain on your body. To alleviate this, try practising pre-natal yoga or pilates using a pregnancy support belt, and ensuring you’re getting enough rest. Adapt to the appropriate sleeping position(left side) and apply a heating pad or take a warm bath. This can also provide relief.
Swelling, particularly in the legs and feet, is another common issue during pregnancy. This is caused by the increased blood flow and fluid retention. To manage this, try elevating your legs, wearing comfortable, supportive shoes, and avoiding standing for too long. Staying hydrated and limiting your salt intake can also help.
Constipation and haemorrhoids are also common challenges during pregnancy. To manage these, focus on consuming high-fibre foods, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular minor exercises. Over-the-counter remedies like stool softeners or haemorrhoid creams can also provide relief.
While these discomforts may seem minor in the grand scheme of pregnancy, they can have a significant impact on your quality of life. It’s important to listen to your body, communicate with your midwife, and try different strategies to find what works best for you.
In conclusion, it’s important to pay close attention to your body during pregnancy and not ignore minor issues that come up. While many common complaints are normal and harmless, some can be signs of a more serious problem.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor/midwife if you’re experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms. With the right support and self-care, you can get through the minor ups and downs of pregnancy. Remember to put your health first and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your baby’s well-being depends on you taking good care of yourself throughout this incredible journey.
I am your Global Midwife and I am always at your Cervix!
Sarah, also known as The Global Midwife, is a midwife by profession and an advocate for reproductive, maternal and child, and menstrual health and hygiene.
