Common Problems of Pregnancy and its Remedies

Here are some common discomforts of pregnancy and what you can do to help:

1. Feel faint while lying on back – Lie on your left side.
2. Swelling of hands and feet – Lie on your left side for 30 minutes, three to four times a day. Exercise often. Drink more fluid. Eat three servings of protein each day. If you wake up in the morning with swelling, tell your health care provider.
3. Bleeding gums – Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently. Drink more orange juice and eat more foods high in vitamin C.
4. Increased secretions (mucus – nose, mouth, throat) – Take care of these problems as best you can without using drugs. Do not use over-the-counter medicine without first checking with your health care provider.
5. Lower leg cramp – Elevate legs often during the day. Point toes upward and press down on kneecap. Apply heating pad or hot-water bottle for relief. Avoid heavy meals at bedtime.
6. Shooting pains down legs – Change positions; if you are sitting, stand up; if you are standing, sit down.
7. Varicose veins – Avoid stockings or girdles with elastic bands. You may use support hose. Put support hose while lying down. Take short rests with legs raised. Raise your legs when you sit down; do not cross your legs.
8. Dizziness – Change your position slowly. Get up slowly after you have been lying down. Eat regular meals and drink plenty of fluids. Do not stay in the sun. Report any dizziness to your health care provider. If these hints do not help, talk with your health care provider.
9. Vaginal discharge, itching, odor – Bathe the outer vaginal area often. Use soap without perfume. Do not use vaginal sprays, powders or feminine hygiene products. Do not use colored or perfumed toilet paper. Wear cotton panties. Avoid pantyhose, girdles and tight pants.
10.  Low backache – Rest often. Use good posture. Move around. Do not stand on one place too long. Use a footstool for your feet when sitting. Keep your knees higher than your hips. Wear low-heeled shoes. Use the pelvic rock exercise.
11.  Fatigue – is common early and late pregnancy. If advised, try pregnancy exercises each day to help keep your energy level up. Lie down at least once a day.
12.  Frequent urination – Limit fluids before bedtime.
13.  Leaking breast milk – Wear nursing pads or tissues in your bra.
14.  Tender breast – Wear a support bra. It may help to wear a bra 24 hours a day.