| Discomfort |
Cause(s) |
Relief Measures |
| Shortness of Breath |
Increased pressure on diaphragm, decreased room for lung |
Kegels, hip elevation. Replace with lubricated finger. Sitz baths. Avoid constipation |
| Hemorrhoids |
Increased pressure on veins, "straining" due to constipation. Decreased venous return. Prolonged sitting or standing inactivity |
Kegels, hip elevation. Replace with lubricated finger. Sitz baths. Avoid constipation |
| Varicosities of Vulva |
Same as above. Avoid sitting with legs crossed |
Kegels, hip elevation. Knee/chest position, regular exercise, avoid long standing |
| Pelvic Pressure, Heaviness |
Increasing weight of uterus, decreased venous return, increased pelvic circulation |
Kegels, hip elevation, knee/chest position, regular exercise, avoid long standing |
| Rib Soreness |
Pressure from growing uterus, baby's limbs, kicks |
Rib cage stretch "pulled-up" posture. Frequent position changes, especially at night |
| Lower Backache |
Change in posture, pull of abdomen on lower back. Lack of abdominal support. Relaxation of pelvic ligaments and body joints, caused by estrogen and relaxin |
Pelvic rocking, good posture. Spine stretch, pelvic tilt. Lie with knees pulled up, press lower back into floor. Use proper lifting, carrying. Wear low heels |
| Middle Backache |
Postural change |
Spine stretch, rib cage stretch. "Cat back." Avoid sitting or standing for long periods |
| Upper Backache |
Same as above, tension in shoulders and neck |
Shoulder circling, head circles. Good sitting and standing posture |
| Leaking Urine(Stress Incontinence) |
Relaxation of pelvic floor muscles, increase in pressure on bladder |
Kegels. Empty bladder frequently |
| Cramp in Leg, Buttocks |
Imbalance of calcium-phosphorus ratio. Excessive or inadequate dairy intake, excessive soda intake (high in phosphorus). Fatigue, sudden stretching |
Limit dairy to 4 servings per day, limit soda intake. Flex, do not point feet when cramping occurs. Elevate legs at night. Take warm bath to relax irritable muscles |
| Tired legs, feet |
Increased body weight tires legs. Decrease in circulation to extremities. Prolonged standing. High heels |
Leg elevation, foot circles. Calf stretches, foot massage or soaking. Regular exercise. Avoid prolonged standing. Wear low heels |
| Abdominal Pain when coughing |
Stretching and spasm of round ligaments which support uterus, reduced abdominal support |
Lie on side. Squatting. Spine stretch, slow movements. Abdominal contractions to strengthen support |
| Side-Stitch |
Hormonal changes, anxiety, excitement, difficulty getting comfortable |
Relaxation exercises, slow breathing. Many pillows for support of body parts. Exercise, eat right during day. Protein snack before bed |
| Fatigue |
Increased demand on body systems, hormonal changes. Increase in metabolism. Incorrect posture or body mechanics. Possible anemia |
Frequent short rests. Good nutrition, regular exercise. Slow down! Deep breathing and relaxation. Regular bedtime |
| Numbness in Arms, Fingers |
Postural changes, especially in neck. Decreased circulation, possible edema |
Shoulder circling. Good sitting and standing posture. Watch edema, tell doctor |
| Heartburn |
Relaxation of sphincter of esophagus-reflux of stomach acids into esophagus |
Eliminate spicy, greasy foods. Eat frequent, small meals. Drink at separate times. Plenty of fluids. Loose clothing. Sleep propped up. Maalox or TUMS |
| Urinary Frequency |
Hormonal influence, decrease in bladder capacity. Increased kidney activity, especially in supine position |
Drink lots of fluids, but limit night intake. Empty bladder frequently to avoid "stasis" and infection. Limit caffeine. Kegels to reduce leakage |
| Altered Sex Drive |
Hormonal, emotional changes. Physical changes and discomfort, fatigue. Fear, anxiety about harming the baby. Increased pelvic circulation |
Maintain couple communication. Alternate sexual activities, positions. Patience, understanding, flexibility |
| Mood Swings |
Depressant effect of progesterone. Physical and emotional changes, body image. Physical discomforts, fatigue. Anxiety, changing roles, responsibilities |
Maintain open communication with spouse, family, friends, pregnant others. Good nutrition, rest. Activities that bring enjoyment. Exercise, good grooming |
| Increased Vaginal Discharge |
Increased production or cervical mucus, caused by estrogen. Possible vaginal infection |
Avoid douching, tampons. Wear mini- pad, especially during exercise. Change frequently. Discuss any odor, itching, or discomfort with doctor |
