My Baby Experience

The joy of being pregnant brings with it a few unwanted side-effects. 

From sore feet to running to the toilet every five minutes, every day brings with it new challenges for expectant mothers.

Here are some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and some suggestions on how to relieve them.

Struggling with sore breasts?

The human body undergoes a whole range of different changes during pregnancy, one of which is the gradual increase in breast size, which can in turn lead to some discomfort as they can be sore to touch and ache.

Try sleeping in a bra if your breasts are sensitive, buy nursing pads to prevent your nipples rubbing against your bra and always wear a fitted bra that gives you plenty of support.

Is morning sickness getting you down?

Not every pregnant women suffers from morning sickness, but for those who do it can be really frustrating.Fatigue is linked tomorning sickness, so ensure you get plenty of sleep and rest and recharge your batteries.

Take on plenty of fluids, avoid strong-smelling food, wear comfortable clothes, stock up on vitamins and minerals and give ginger supplements a go as they are thought to reduce nausea.

Got painful back ache?

Expectant mothers have to endure many downsides during the various stages of pregnancy, with back pain particularly common, but fear not as there are many ways to combat it.

Having a bath or applying a hot water bottle to the lower back are both tried and tested ways to make life that little bit more comfortable, as is using a cushion to provide support when you sit down.

Are your feet swollen?

It’s not uncommon for the feet of pregnant women to balloon to an uncomfortable size. This is a sign to start taking things a little easier.

Reduce the amount of walking you do, take regular breaks if walking is unavoidable, soak your feet in a tub of warm water, keep your feet elevated during times of rest, wear comfortable shoes and seek medical help if the pain gets too much.

Experiencing a strange sensation in your palm, wrist or fingers?

An estimated 50% of pregnant women suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which is a pain, numbness and tingling feeling in the fingers and hands. The symptoms can persist for several months following birth, but should eventually ease off.

Treating CTS can involve using a cushioned support if you spend long periods of time using a computer, taking plenty of breaks and stretching the ligaments and muscles in your hand, as well as try to sleep with your hands free of pressure.

Finding yourself going to the toilet a lot?

Pressure on the bladder could result in your going backwards and forwards to the toilet more times than you’d like to during pregnancy.

Avoid caffeine as it has a diuretic effect, reduce the amount of fluid you consume at night and try leaning forward when you’re on the toilet to ensure your bladder is completely empty. 

 The post is brought to you by Bounty, pregnancy and parenting support.

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