Common Discomforts During Pregnancy

While pregnancy may be one of the greatest journeys of womanhood, it could also be one of the most uncomfortable times in a woman’s life. For one, hormonal changes wreak havoc on the mother-to-be’s body, creating symptoms and discomforts the woman may not even have experienced in her life. No woman is ever the same in terms of the pregnancy symptoms that they have, and no two pregnancies are alike either, as the same mother may experience an easy pregnancy for her first child, and suddenly feel very lethargic, nauseous, and irritable while carrying her second.

Even the length of time that they experience a certain symptom or discomfort, may vary from one woman to another.

So what are the common discomforts experienced during pregnancy?

Feeling Tired – Most pregnant women have this as their first-ever pregnancy symptom. Fatigue happens usually because the body is working double-time to sustain you and your fetus. Also, pregnant women are prone to anemia, and being anemic causes feeling of tiredness. To combat this, make sure you mention this to your health provider so she can recommend a supplement or an activity you may do to minimize fatigue. On your own, you may want to get enough sleep, and take cat naps when you can.

Breast Swelling and Tenderness –This is another symptom that is usually associated in the earlier stages of pregnancy. Hormonal changes, as well as the breasts getting ready to produce milk, are the main causes of tenderness and swelling. Make sure that you wear a comfortable bra that is bigger than your usual size, to accommodate as well the changes in your breast size.

Nausea and Vomiting – One of the most common pregnancy symptom which is associated with the sudden increase in the levels of hormones in the mother’s body, is nausea. This is what most pregnant women refer to as morning sickness – which in reality can last all day. Avoid greasy food, and hydrate to help keep it at bay. Mention this as well to your health provider, especially if you are having trouble with keeping food down.

Having to urinate a lot – This is a pregnancy symptom usually experienced throughout the three trimesters. This is because the baby's position puts pressure on the bladder, hence the more frequent need to urinate. Hydrate well to avoid doing things that can lead to a Urinary Tract Infection, and avoid tight fitting bottoms.

Heartburn – Usually felt in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, heartburn is again caused by a higher level of hormones, which in turn slows down the digestive system. To avoid heartburn, take small, frequent meals, and avoid laying down after a meal. Ask your health provider if you can take an antacid to combat your heartburn. Spicy, greasy, and acidic foods like red pasta sauces and chili, will contribute to more heartburn discomforts.

Back Pain – Usually experienced towards the end of the pregnancy, the bulging baby bump usually puts a lot of pressure on the mother’s back, hence the back pain. Always keep your posture in check, and try to relax and prop up your feet when you can. Some pregnant women buy support belts to help out their backs throughout the last trimester.

Swollen Feet – Seeing your feet swell is not just unsightly, it is uncomfortable too– but it is one of the realities of pregnancy. To avoid this, take short walks or continue being active if you were given the green-light to do so by your health provider. Prop up your feet as well whenever you can. Mention this to your OBGYN so that they can give you something to help with the swelling.

Mood Swings – Blame this again on the hormones. Some pregnant women tend to be so irritable, some super happy, while others seem depressed. The increase in hormones, as well as the changes in the body, and the other discomforts felt throughout the pregnancy contribute to the mood swings experienced by a pregnant woman. If you consciously feel that you are being extra sad or irritable, try focusing on positive things. Use a journal to write down when you have extreme mood experiences so that you can address this with your doctor if you feel that they are getting out of control.

While pregnancy may have a lot of uncomfortable moments, focusing on the bundle of joy that awaits in the end, may help ease the stresses and discomforts associated with pregnancy.