Care for Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Now that you are pregnant you may be experiencing some minor problems or
discomforts that are caused by the changing hormones or your body's
adaptation to pregnancy. We have some general health guidelines that
may help to minimize your discomfort. If at any time these
symptoms become severe, you need to seek help from a physician or
emergency room.
Tiredness, Fatigue
Try to get as much sleep as you can by taking naps and going to bed early.
Mild exercise in the fresh air can restore energy when tired. Avoid
foods with caffeine or sugar in them because they will give you a sudden
burst of energy and then a drop making you feel even more tired.
Morning Sickness
Some women experience nausea early in the morning or when they first
awaken. Others may have it off and on all day. However, for most women
this decreases after the first three months.
If your nausea is bad when you first awaken, try eating a high protein
snack before bed, such as cheese, milk, yogurt, peanut butter on apple
slices or celery, soy products, chicken or turkey. You can also try eating
crackers before you get up in the morning and rise slowly without any sudden
movement.
If your nausea is during the day, it is important not to allow yourself to
get too hungry - eat six small meals instead of two or three large meals.
Never go long periods without food. Avoid strong tasting or smelling
foods and fried or greasy foods or anything that you know makes you sick.
Do not use alcohol or tobacco and avoid smoke-filled environments where the
second-hand smoke may make you sick.
If these measures don't work to ease the nausea, ask your physician if
Vitamin B6 will help you.
Constipation
Many women experience constipation during early and late pregnancy.
This is caused by the hormones of pregnancy as well as the pressure
against the intestine by the growing uterus. It is important to eat
fresh fruits and raw vegetables as well as whole grain breads and
cereals. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water (at least 8
glasses per day), and getting regular exercise will also help.
Frequent Urination
Pressure against the bladder by the growing uterus will cause the feeling
of needing to go to the bathroom often. This is normal and there is
nothing that can or should be done to prevent it. If frequent trips to
the bathroom are disturbing your sleep, you may try limiting fluids after 8pm.
If you feel any pain or burning when you urinate, contact your physician.
Breast Tenderness
Your breasts may be feeling tender or your nipples may be very sensitive.
That is also a very normal part of pregnancy. Wearing a bra with good
support may relieve discomfort from movement and wearing a bra at night
may help with the sensitivity of nipples.
Dizziness
Some women may experience dizziness when they move or rise quickly. The best
way to avoid this is to change positions slowly and often so that the blood
doesn't pool in your legs. Eat and drink on a regular schedule and don't
go long periods without eating. Also make sure you get enough fluids, at
least 8 glasses of water per day.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Changing hormones and disruptions to your life may cause you to feel like
you are on an emotional roller coaster. Talking about your feelings with
a caring professional or supportive friend may help. Stress or anxiety can
often be relieved by talking about them with a good listener. Avoid
caffeine and sugar. Getting adequate sleep can also help.
Assist Pregnancy Center is not a medical facility. If you have medical concerns
please contact your physician or emergency room.
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