Discomforts of pregnancy 

The body undergoes rapid and extensive change from the moment pregnancy begins. Hormone signals are sent out from the  corpus luteum of pregnancy ( See Menstrual Cycle 101 ) and then afterwards from the placenta, stimulating cataclysmic changes in a woman's body. The blood volume greatly expands, the pelvic organs do as well, and the joints become soft and loose. Breathing changes, heart function changes. Our blood chemistry is altered. Our neurotransmitters are altered! It is no wonder that we feel a variety of symptoms which can range from the amusing to the debilitating. 

Here are some common symptoms by trimester and some common ways to address them. 

First trimester: 

Breast tenderness - Buy an ample supportive non-underwire bra. 

Unexplained fatigue - Sleep at least 9 hours per night, consider an early afternoon nap. Be dutiful about nutrition including protein rich snacks. Stay well hydrated. Take your prenatal vitamins. 

Nausea and vomiting  - Eat small frequent meals. Try dry toast and ginger tea. Have others prepare food. Take prenatal vitamins with food before bedtime. Talk to your doctor if you cannot stay well hydrated, vomit more than three times per day, or lose more than 3 pounds. You may have a condition called Hyperemesis gravidarum. The doctor may send you for IV hydration which will make you feel better and keep you safe. You may be placed on an anti nausea medication to help you through this phase. 

Pelvic fullness- Alternate periods of rest and activity every couple hours. 

Heightened emotions - I have a sense these emotions are meant to help us bond with out partner and later our newborn. But sometimes they get out of hand. Start by ensuring enough sleep and good nutrition. Take time out for yourself with exercise, yoga or meditation. Ask for your partner's help. Speak to your doctor if you are not able to control your emotions, or they begin to cause problems. 

Second trimester:

Lightheadedness - This comes from a natural drop in blood pressure during the second trimester. Make sure to stay well hydrated with 3 liters of fluid per day. Ensure you are taking in normal electrolytes by including soups and fruits in the diet. If your blood pressure runs truly low, try to increase your sodium intake with chips and salsa or pickles. If these simple measure do not help, see your doctor. 

Mild shortness of breath which is nonexertional - 50 % of all pregnant women experience mild shortness of breast. This is due to the lung changes of normal pregnancy. There should not be any dizziness or chest pain which goes with this. If you have any questions, call your doctor. 

Fleeting palpitations of the heart without chest pain - A little flutter from time to time is normal. If heart palpitations are frequent or bothersome in any way, call your doctor. 

Laxity of the joints resulting in unpleasant hip sensations, sciatica, and round ligament strain - Ensure good posture. Move mindfully. Stay moderately active, neither too active nor sedentary. Check with your doctor to see if she thinks Physical Therapy would be beneficial. In my office, we are consistently impressed with how helpful it is. 

Third trimester:

Mild shortness of breath which is nonexertional ( see above ) 

Fleeting palpitations of the heart without chest pain (see above) 

Laxity of the joints resulting in unpleasant hip sensations, sciatica, and round ligament strain (see above)

Insomnia - Curtail naps, get a body pillow, try melatonin or Benadryl. Try relaxation yoga before bed. Take a warm, not hot, bath. Talk to your doctor if these methods are insufficient. 

Heartburn - Do not take TUMS, or Calcium preparations. They relieve in the short term, only to produce rebound acid secretion later. Try Mylanta for short term relief and daily Prilosec OTC for longer term prevention. Let your doctor know about this. 

Nighttime leg cramps - These are a challenge. There is no clear evidence based approach to these. Common sense indicates mild to moderate exercise, good hydration, warm baths, and plenty of foods like whole fruit containing electrolytes. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of using oral magnesium supplements. 

Just remember, your baby

will be well worth all of these discomforts.