5 Common conditions during pregnancy

Pregnancy brings happiness to every woman’s life. A pregnant woman may go through many pregnancy health problems and discomfort that can arise during those 9 months. These common problems may not be harmful but need a little attention. During pregnancy, the body undergoes several hormonal, physical, and physiological changes to support the healthy growth and development of the fetus.

The common problems may include cramps, heartburn, indigestion, varicose veins, backache, anxiety, constipation, and haemorrhoids. These changes may result in a few problems during pregnancy. Hence, it is important to understand and be aware of these problems to promptly reach out to your doctor on what precautions need to be taken, and what pregnancy problems are possible along the way.

With proper care and preventative steps, many of the problems that can happen during pregnancy can be avoided. Every expectant mother needs to be aware of the potential maternity problems to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Some of the common conditions during pregnancy are given below:

Heartburn and Indigestion

The hormonal and physical changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy lead to indigestion, sometimes as early as the start of the second trimester. The unborn baby puts a considerable amount of pressure on the stomach. As a result, the mother experiences a lot of indigestion and heartburn.

Heartburns cause a burning feeling in the chest and can be the reason for a lot of discomfort during pregnancy. Avoid fatty and spicy foods that upset the stomach and drink plenty of water in between. Eat several meals instead of one large meal. Eat lighter meals and have dinner at least three hours before sleep. Staying hungry can trigger heartburn. A glass of milk or yoghurt helps to prevent and relieve heartburn. If the symptoms are very aggressive, consult a doctor and seek medical health immediately.

Lower back pain

Researchers estimate that 8 out of 10 pregnant women suffer from back pain, and this prevalence increases up to 75 per cent by the third trimester. With all the weight of the growing baby, there’s more strain on your pelvis and spine. The muscles have to work harder and the joints experience more pressure during pregnancy.

Many pregnant women do experience a lot of pain and discomfort in their pelvic region, both sides of the lower back, pain in the area between the vagina and anus, and pain near the pubic bone. Backache can get worse as your pregnancy progresses. Sleeping on a firm mattress, gentle exercises, massage, hot packs, wearing flat shoes and walking can help to prevent and relieve backache.  Practice yoga poses to cure lower back pain.

Gestational Diabetes

Most pregnant women have some insulin resistance during late pregnancy which develops gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs when the body can’t make the extra insulin needed during pregnancy. This condition means that blood sugar levels are high and can affect during labor.

Gestational diabetes can be managed through a healthy diet and a regular exercise plan. Keep blood sugar level under control and take insulin if needed. If gestational diabetes is left untreated, it can increase the risk of other problems during pregnancy and labor. 

Morning sickness

Out of 4 in 5 women feel sick or vomit at some point in their pregnancy. Morning sickness usually starts between the 4th and 17th week and is worse around the 9th week. Morning sickness is a symptom of early pregnancy problems and is something that can happen at any time of the day and for some can carry on throughout the pregnancy.

The symptoms include nausea and may make eating difficult. Instead of a heavy meal, have small meals frequently. Avoid foods that make you feel sick and try some dry snacks before getting out of bed in the morning. Drink plenty of water and get lots of rest. Sickness can normally be managed by taking care of what and when you eat. Consult a doctor and have medicine prescribed to overcome morning sickness.

Insomnia

As the pregnancy progresses, some of the natural discomforts make it harder to get a good night’s sleep and have a comfortable sleeping position in general. Many women find it difficult to adjust to their changing bodies during this time. According to a survey by the National Sleep Foundation about sleep during pregnancy, 78% of pregnant women reported having difficulty falling asleep.

The best sleeping position for pregnant women is to sleep on the side when the belly grows bigger. Regular exercise during pregnancy keeps your circulation going, promotes good health, and also improves sleep. Keeping physical and emotional stress levels under control helps to achieve a relaxed night’s sleep.