Waiting for a baby is one of the most beautiful, but also the most difficult times in a woman’s life, due to pregnancy ailments. The most bothersome ones, such as nausea, fatigue or heartburn, are also the most characteristic symptoms of this condition. See in which trimester pregnancy problems appear, what causes them and how to deal with them.
Where do unpleasant pregnancy symptoms come from?
Their main cause is pregnancy hormones, produced by the body in response to fertilization. Progesterone and estrogens maintain pregnancy and support fetal development. But hormones don’t just affect the unborn child – they also affect the woman’s body, which manifests itself in unpleasant but very specific symptoms such as nausea or heartburn, breast tenderness, calf cramps, hemorrhoids and many others.
Pregnancy problems typical for each trimester
Each stage of pregnancy is characterized by different symptoms. During the first trimester of pregnancy, the expectant mother experiences morning sickness, extreme sleepiness, and fatigue. This first symptom is caused by the beta hCG hormone, which is produced in the first days after fertilization. It serves to maintain pregnancy, but is also responsible for nausea and vomiting. Fatigue in early pregnancy is caused by a sudden increase in progesterone, which allows the egg to implant in the uterus and the pregnancy to proceed normally.
The second trimester is when beta hCG levels drop, which is why most women stop feeling nauseous. However, other problems arise: progesterone slows down intestinal function, causing constipation and flatulence. Dizziness and pregnancy cravings are also typical during this time.
In the third trimester, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, causing frequent urination, and on the stomach, causing heartburn. Changes in the center of gravity and unnatural body posture cause back pain. Due to poorer blood supply to the lower parts of the body, some women suffer from hemorrhoids and calf cramps. A large belly at the end of pregnancy makes it difficult to sleep, despite the constant fatigue during pregnancy caused by increased body weight and difficulty moving.
Ways to deal with pregnancy problems
There are many natural methods and preparations that reduce the unpleasant symptoms of the most common ailments during pregnancy and are safe for the baby. That’s not all: in pharmacies you can also find preparations for other health problems that may occur throughout pregnancy, such as infections and related runny nose, fever or diarrhea.
- Vomiting – for centuries, ginger has been an effective remedy for this most common ailment. In the first weeks of pregnancy, it is better not to part with ginger candies or biscuits. You can also drink an infusion of ginger and lemon, the sour taste of which reduces nausea. To avoid unpleasant symptoms, it is worth eating less, but more often and always have a snack with you.
- Heartburn – burning in the esophagus is one of the typical pregnancy complaints in the first and third trimester. It is caused by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. Home remedies for heartburn during pregnancy include eating almonds or drinking milk. Drinking baking soda solution also helps. But there are also special medications that neutralize stomach acids and are safe for the unborn baby.
- Constipation – If you are pregnant, you may have trouble having bowel movements. The way to deal with this is to drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in fiber, such as whole grain bread. The correct amount of fluids softens the stool, and fiber improves intestinal function. Plums and linseed may be helpful in treating constipation during pregnancy.
- Swelling – this is the result of prolonged standing and sitting, but also the normal accumulation of fluids in a woman’s body. To avoid swollen feet, you need to rest in a lying position, be physically active and drink plenty of water. If the swelling does not subside and tests show protein in your urine, see a doctor. There is a risk of preeclampsia.
- Hemorrhoids – occur more often in pregnant women suffering from constipation, which is why products rich in fiber are also effective in preventing them. However, when hemorrhoids do appear, sitz baths with an infusion of oak bark or chamomile will help. Sometimes you need to reach for medications from the pharmacy, e.g. suppositories or ointments for hemorrhoids, which are effective and safe for the child.
- Back pain – is most common in the third trimester of pregnancy. The way to deal with this is physical activity, not only in the last months of pregnancy. If you experience troublesome pain, it is worth consulting a physiotherapist who will help you select exercises or apply special tapes (kinesiotaping). Massages performed by a specialist are also an excellent method.
- Insomnia – occurs most often when a large belly and other pregnancy ailments make it difficult to fall asleep. In such a situation, it is worth ensuring the best sleeping conditions possible: air the bedroom, buy a pregnancy pillow that helps you adopt a comfortable sleeping position, calm down before going to bed, and use aromatherapy.
- Diarrhea – Among the many digestive problems faced by pregnant women is diarrhea. It can be caused by hormonal changes affecting the digestive system, but also by viruses. The most common culprit is rotaviruses, which are most dangerous for small children, but can also affect adults. During diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, the most important thing is to drink adequate amounts of fluids and eat a light diet.
- Runny nose and cough – these are typical symptoms of infection. Pregnant women have weaker immunity, which is why they often get sick, unfortunately – they are not allowed to take many cold remedies. A safe option for them are natural preparations based on extracts from plants such as raspberries, Iceland moss, and marshmallow.
- Fever – high temperature is dangerous for the child, so it must be lowered. An effective and safe drug is paracetamol.
