Whether you’re having your first baby or your fifth, your body will experience a number of physical changes during pregnancy. These changes can be tiring, painful, and even scary at times. Every woman and pregnancy is unique, so pregnancy symptoms can vary greatly. Here are some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and how to treat them:
Nausea & Vomiting
Up to 85 percent of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting. Often referred to as morning sickness, this is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. Despite its name, it can occur at any time of day. It is most likely caused by rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone, or HCG, that continue to rise through the first trimester. To manage nausea and vomiting, try eating small, frequent, bland meals. You can also try drinking chamomile tea, eating ginger, or wearing an anti-nausea wristband. Additionally, our compounding pharmacy can create compounded nausea medications that are safe during pregnancy.
Fatigue
The rise in progesterone levels and other hormone changes often cause fatigue during pregnancy. This is especially prevalent in the first trimester. Don’t feel bad if you can’t keep up with your usual activities due to lower energy levels. To combat fatigue, prioritize getting enough sleep each night, and take naps if possible. If you struggle to fall asleep at night, try winding down with relaxing activities such as drinking chamomile tea or reading.
Bleeding & Spotting
Light bleeding or spotting is a common pregnancy symptom during the first trimester. It occurs when the fertilized egg implants into the uterine lining, which occurs around the time of your first missed period. Additionally, changes in hormone levels make the cervix much more prone to bleeding even with gentle touch. Wear a pad and take note of how much you are bleeding as well as the color and whether it has clots. If you are bleeding enough that it soaks a pad or you experience severe abdominal pain or cramping, seek medical attention.
Constipation
Progesterone is a hormone that increases during pregnancy. Higher levels of this hormone can make your bowels move more slowly, leading to constipation. To manage constipation, make sure you are consuming plenty of water and fiber. You should drink at least 2 liters of water each day and eat foods with high water content, especially during warmer months. Eating fiber can encourage regular bowel movements. Great sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You can also try natural laxatives like prunes or take an over-the-counter stool softener.
Round Ligament Pain
You have two round ligaments (one on either side of your uterus) that elevate and support the uterus as it grows and extends out of your pelvis. These ligaments stretch as your uterus increases in size and weight. This stretching can cause sharp or jabbing pain that can be felt from the sides of the belly down to the vagina. This pain commonly occurs while physically active or at the end the day after standing or walking a lot. You can wear a pregnancy support belt or belly band to support the uterus and reduce the stress on these ligaments and your back. A pregnancy pillow can provide support while you rest.
Heartburn
Another one of the common pregnancy symptoms is heartburn. Increased levels of progesterone cause your stomach valve to relax, allowing acid into your esophagus. Your bowels are also moving slower, which means acid is staying in your stomach longer and causing further irritation. Your growing baby puts additional pressure on your stomach, helping push acid up into your esophagus. To avoid heartburn, wait at least an hour after eating before lying down. Avoid acidic foods and drinks, and eat smaller meals throughout the day. You can also take calcium carbonate tablets like Tums for heartburn relief.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are one of the pregnancy symptoms you may experience near the end of your pregnancy. These subtle contractions are a way for your uterus to prepare and practice for labor. They are not usually worrisome unless you have more than four in an hour and they don’t go away with hydration and rest. To reduce the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions, try to drink 2 liters of water per day. Your uterus is more likely to contract painfully if you are dehydrated.
Hemorrhoids
Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to hemorrhoids. During pregnancy, there is also increased pressure in your pelvic region, putting a strain on the blood vessels around your rectum and anus. Constipation is common with pregnancy, and straining during bowel movements puts further pressure on these blood vessels, resulting in hemorrhoids. To prevent hemorrhoids, make sure you are taking steps to avoid constipation such as staying hydrated and eating fiber. You can apply witch hazel to the hemorrhoid area or soak in a sitz bath to relieve discomfort.
Breast Tenderness
Breast tenderness is most common during the first trimester of pregnancy. As the breasts get larger, they can become quite tender. You can wear a supportive bra to help you feel more comfortable. At birth, your breasts start to produce milk and may feel hard and sore. If you breastfeed, your nipples may get sore or cracked. A compounded topical ointment can promote healing and protect this sensitive skin during breastfeeding.
Compounds for Pregnancy from Midtown Express Pharmacy
Here at Midtown Express Pharmacy, we can create compounded medications to help treat some of your uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms and breastfeeding symptoms. These include compounds for nausea and vomiting as well as topical ointments for healing and protecting during breastfeeding. To learn more about how our custom compounds can help, reach out to us today!
