Common Complaints in Pregnancy
Pregnancy for majority of women represents one of the most beautiful and exciting periods of life but a woman's body goes through variety of physiological changes which are sometimes very unpleasant and disturbing. Since it is better to prevent than to cure a lot of common complaints during pregnancy can be avoided if being well informed. Knowing which problems can occur during pregnancy and how to avoid them will make the period of pregnancy a much more pleasant experience.
About 30% of all pregnant women experience constipation which is a result of hormonal changes. Proper diet which should include lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, adequate fluid intake and adequate physical activity will increase the bowel movement and relieve the symptoms related to constipation. By preventing constipation pregnant women will also greatly reduce the risk of hemorrhoids which is also among very common complaints. Hemorrhoids are most frequently caused by constipation and increased pressure of the fetus on pelvis in the late pregnancy. To avoid hemorrhoids is important to prevent constipation by proper diet, adequate fluid intake and adequate physical activity as well as by avoiding sedentary positions.
A lot of women also complain over morning sickness which affects about 70% of all pregnant women. In majority of women it lasts for about two or three weeks, and disappears on its own without treatment. To relieve morning sickness is recommended to get enough sleep, start the day easily, drink a lot of fluid and to avoid foods and odors which stimulate nausea. Very common in pregnancy is also itchy skin and stretch marks which are result of enlargement of the belly or/and gaining weight and can be prevented and relieved with a moisturizer. To prevent swelling of the ankles and feet, and varicose veins pregnant women should avoid wearing shoes with high heals, standing and sitting with legs crossed. Increased urinary frequency during pregnancy is completely normal. However, if having painful urination and/or foul-smelling urine is necessary to go to a doctor. There is also no need to be upset over increased vaginal discharge unless it is accompanied with other symptoms which might imply on infection or inflammation. In later case is necessary to go to a doctor.