Discomforts of Pregnancy

Non-pharmacological remedies for the discomforts of pregnancy:

Heartburn:

• identify offending foods and avoid them
• engage in moderate physical activity
• eat apples, toast, papaya, or yogurt
• try eating smaller meals and eat slowly
• avoid soda and other carbonated beverages
• take a walk after meals

Gas:

• identify offending foods and avoid them
• lie down and do abdominal breathing
• do pelvic rocks
• avoid soda and other carbonated beverages

Bleeding Gums:

• this may be caused by increased circulation during pregnancy (other mucus membranes may also be sensitive, bleeding or running nose for instance).
• have teeth cleaned by your dentist
• increase vitamin C (oranges and citrus fruits)

Varicose Veins:

• improve circulation by walking or other exercise
• avoid standing for long periods of time
• tailor sit
• change positions often
• elevate legs
  
• do pelvic rocks
• lie on left side
• do ankle circles (do not point toes, this can cause leg cramps)

Leg Cramps:

• pelvic rocks
• squat
• sleep with legs slightly elevated
• avoid pointing toes or stretching too hard
• salt food to taste (be sure salt intake is adequate
• eat foods high in calcium
• to stop a leg cramp, point heel or stand on the affected leg
• be sure you are eating nutritiously
• get some light exercise

Hemorrhoids:

• improve circulation
• get more exercise, like walking
  
• avoid constipation
• pelvic rocks
• put feet up on a small stool while on the toilet for a bowel movement
• sitz baths
• Kegel exercise
• increase fluids

Fatigue:

• this is normal during pregnancy, but could be a sign of anemia or dehydration
• get more rest
• take a nap
• alleviate stress
• cut back on working hours if possible
• cut back on activities
• maintain good nutrition
• increase fluids in diet

Constipation:

• eat a variety of fresh or dried fruits
• drink lots of water
• eat foods high in fiber
• daily exercise
• avoid taking laxatives or straining during a bowel movement
• put feet up on a low stool during a bowel movement

Backache:

• be aware of good posture
• pelvic rock
• stand only for short periods of time
• increase calcium in diet
• walk
• take a warm bath

Weight gain:

• eat a well balanced diet, with plenty of protein
• avoid junk food
• get daily exercise