10 Tips to Alleviate Symptoms of Pregnancy

Here are 10 tips to alleviate symptoms of pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman’s body can undergo a series of changes in response to the growth of her child inside her womb.

During the gestational period the body prepares to house a baby. This produces certain changes that are accompanied by certain discomforts.

So how can we alleviate symptoms of pregnancy? Keep reading and find out below.

Common pregnancy symptoms

Nausea, dizziness, tiredness, frequent desire to urinate and mood swings. Mothers suffer from different discomforts during the different stages of pregnancy.

As the baby grows, the mother’s body must adapt. A woman’s body must undergo various modifications and all of these changes can cause discomfort.

First trimester

1. Nausea

Nausea is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. This is especially true during the early hours of the morning. Keep in mind that this symptom is experienced differently by women.

Nausea is caused by a rise in the pregnancy hormone (Hgc) and progesterone.

Tips:

• You can keep healthy snacks on the bedside table and eat them right before getting out of bed in order to raise your blood sugar level.
• Eat less but in more intervals. Prepare healthy snacks such as cereal, fruits or vegetables. Try to avoid processed and fried food.

2. Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion occurs due to hormones that cause inflammation of the mucus membrane.

Tips:

• In order to alleviate this symptom, you can use chamomile or saline vapor inhalations.

3. Breast tension

Breast-size increases as the breasts prepare for breastfeeding. This can cause discomfort.

Tips:

• In order to prevent stretch marks, you can perform massages with moisturizers.
• For comfort, use cotton bras which have wide strips.

4. Fatigue and drowsiness

A pregnant woman’s body focuses on providing energy for the baby, this causes metabolism to slow down. As metabolism slows down, fatigue may increase.

Tips:

• Don’t fight against fatigue. Take frequent breaks whenever you can.
• Try to take naps every now and then.
• Rest well at night.
• Place pillows in a position where they can support your stomach. Pregnancy experts recommend sleeping on your left side.
• Perform light physical activities. Yoga is an ideal way to relax.

Second trimester

5. Constipation

Constipation is caused by physiological changes. During pregnancy the uterus presses against the intestines.

Tips:

• Consume foods that are rich in fiber such as salads, fruits and cereals. Incorporate walks into your daily routine and drink lots of water.

6. Heartburn

Heartburn occurs when the digestive system slows down. The esophageal sphincter doesn’t close as it should during pregnancy.

Tips:

• Eat less but at various times during the day. This will also help to calm anxiety and prevent nausea.
• Don’t lie down immediately after eating. You have to give your body some time to digest food properly.
• Avoid taking antacids without consulting a doctor.
• Avoid eating fried foods, carbonated drinks, condiments, chocolate and coffee.

Third trimester

7. Swelling

This is one of the most common symptoms during the final stages of pregnancy. It’s caused by an excess of liquid that is deposited in the lower extremities.

Tips:

• While sitting and lying down, your legs should be elevated. Make sure that you have enough back support.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Reduce your consumption of salt and drink more water.

8. Varicose veins

Varicose veins don’t always appear. However, some women are prone to developing them during pregnancy.

Tips:

• Don’t stand for long periods of time. Walk and change positions frequently.
• Don’t wear tight clothing.
• Perform exercises that promote circulation.
• Avoid exposing the area to heat sources such as the sun or hot water for example.
• Use special socks for pregnant women.

9. Back pain

Back pain appears due to the weight of the belly.

Tips:

• Don’t stay standing for long periods of time. Move around and sit down periodically.
• Wear comfortable shoes and flats, in order to prevent bad posture.
• Place warm compresses on areas where you have pain in order to relieve back pain.
• Don’t make sudden movements or lift weights.
• Get back massages.

10. Mood swings

Finally, mood swings are another common symptom during pregnancy. In order to mitigate its effects, keep in mind that mood swings are transient. Relax and focus on the fact that it is a temporary occurrence.

It’s also important to understand the changes that occur during pregnancy. Put the tips mentioned above into practice and look for relaxing activities to perform that will help you enjoy your pregnancy.