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SIDE EFFECTS OF PREGNANCY

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1. Heartburn

Heartburn is a phenomenon caused by excess acidity in the stomach, and it certainly creates an unpleasant sensation. Heartburn usually occurs after eating fatty foods or drinking coffee and is expressed in a feeling of acid rising up the throat, and not only pregnant women suffer from it. Often people who don’t suffer from heartburn generally will experience it during pregnancy, because of the growing uterus that creates pressure on the digestive system. To avoid heartburn as much as possible, keep a diet that includes less fatty foods.

2. Lower back pain

As a result of a growing belly, during the later stages of pregnancy pressure is created on the lower back. The results of this pressure are pain and sore muscles experienced by about two-thirds of pregnant women. To prevent the condition and treat the problem, take up some lower back stretches and exercises. Or do Lamaze.

3. Fatigue

Beyond the lack of sleep, fatigue can be caused by other reasons you actually have control over. For example, in many cases, pregnancy causes iron deficiency, which can be prevented by taking a mild iron supplement. Fatigue may also be a sign of water shortage in the body. In pregnancy, the body needs more water, therefore, there is a greater chance that the cause of fatigue is dehydration. In addition to taking iron and drinking enough water, try to eat foods that will keep you energized.

4. Forgetfulness and confusion

Many women claim to experience general memory problems and confusion during pregnancy; they might forget why they went into the store, where they put their wallet and even their phone number. While most of them deal with these situations with humor, this doesn’t mean that they must be accepted as an integral part of the pregnancy experience. A few things you can do to help you better remember things are: keep a notebook on you, give things a “home” that way you always know where to find them, and set alarms and notifications!

5. Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common problem in pregnant women due to the great pressure exerted on the pelvic area and the hormonal changes that their bodies undergo. In order to prevent hemorrhoids, constipation and similar digestive difficulties strengthen the pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegels and improving blood flow.

6. Stuffy nose

A stuffy nose is usually caused by a cold, but sometimes it can be one of the side effects of pregnancy, usually from the second month. The reason for a stuffy nose is the hormonal changes the body undergoes, such as an increase in the level of estrogen.

7. Leg cramps

Muscle cramps are usually a result of too much exertion, while during pregnancy it is caused by the heavy load being carried by your legs throughout the day.. In order to prevent this phenomenon, one should try not to stand for a long time and exert less effort throughout the day.

8. Insomnia

Insomnia can occur, among other reasons, because of worries, excitement or physical problems related to sleep. During pregnancy, many physical and emotional changes occur, so it isn’t surprising that 8 out of 10 women experience insomnia and similar problems during pregnancy. Maybe it’s a bit comforting to know you’re not the only one, but it’s not so nice to roll over in bed and know that tomorrow you have to start the day tired.

9. Constipation and bloating in the abdomen

One of the reasons for constipation during pregnancy is an increase in the level of the hormone progesterone, which relaxes many muscles throughout the body among them are those in the digestive system, meaning that food passes through the intestines more slowly. As a result of the hormone, there may also be a feeling of abdominal bloating and gas.

10. Swelling of the legs

Edema causes the legs to swell and fill with fluid in a way that looks a bit odd.. It appears many times in adults and can indicate a variety of health problems, but in the last trimester of pregnancy, edema in the legs is a normal and common phenomenon due to the burden of weight on the legs. It is best to treat the problem by massaging your legs and laying down with them raised.

Author: TxNaturalPediatrics

By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives. In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.

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