Pregnancy is a beautiful experience for every woman, but during this time, many hormonal and physical changes occur in the body. The growing baby puts extra strain on the mother’s body, due to which different types of discomforts are often experienced. Some changes are normal, while some may require medical attention.
In conclusion, the discomforts that occur during pregnancy do not harm the health of the mother and the baby. But if these things are not taken care of in time, then discomfort increases and daily life becomes difficult. It is very important for a pregnant woman to have a balanced diet, drink more water, get enough sleep, exercise lightly, and consult a doctor when necessary.
In today’s blog, we will know in detail about the 10 most common pregnancy-related discomforts and also learn how to handle them easily. So that you can enjoy the beautiful moments of your pregnancy without worries.
Content
1. Nausea and Vomiting (Morning Sickness)
During the first trimester, many pregnant women vomit as soon as they wake up in the morning or at any time of the day. Feels faint and loss of appetite. This condition is commonly called morning sickness.
This problem occurs due to increasing levels of hormones hCG and Estrogen. These changes in the body affect the digestive system and make the area between the throat and stomach sensitive. Sensitivity to smell increases during pregnancy, due to which even a little fragrant food may induce vomiting.
The special thing is that, this is a normal sign for the development of the child and it is not harmful for the child.
However, frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration and weakness, so it is important to be careful. છે.
Solutions
- Eat small amounts and don’t be hungry
- Eat biscuits/crackers before getting up in the morning
- Ginger tea or ginger chewing
- The scent of lemon soothes the mind and stomach
- Avoid heavy, spicy and strong-smelling foods
- Drink plenty of water
2. Heartburn (Acidity & Burning Sensation)
When stomach acid rises up into the throat, it causes burning, belching, a sour taste, and discomfort in the chest — it is called heartburn or acidity.
This problem occurs for two main reasons during pregnancy:
- The hormone progesterone relaxes the valve between the stomach and the throat
- The growing size of the fetus increases pressure on the stomach and acid rises up
This problem increases a lot in the second and third trimesters. Wrong food choices (spicy-fried-sour foods), going to bed too soon, or eating too much can also cause acidity to increase.
If left untreated, severe heartburn after eating, sleep disturbance at night, and indigestion can occur.
Solutions
- Eat small frequent meals
- Avoid salty, spicy, sour, fried foods
- Do not lie down for 1 hour after meals
- Keep your head slightly elevated while sleeping
- Antacids as advised by your doctor
3. Fatigue and Tiredness (Feeling very tired and lacking energy)
During the first trimester, the body’s progesterone hormone increases rapidly, which naturally increases sleepiness and fatigue.
At the same time, the body is constantly working to increase blood cells, hormones, and nutrients to maintain the pregnancy — which requires the body to use more energy.
Along with physical changes, mental changes, anxiety, fear, and overthinking also play a big role in increasing fatigue.
If proper diet and rest are not provided, dizziness, weakness, and lack of motivation can also be experienced.
Solutions
- Get enough rest and sleep for 8–10 hours
- Nutritious diet – especially iron, protein and vitamin B
- Light exercise – walking or prenatal yoga
- Don’t multitask, listen to your body
- Drink enough water – dehydration can make you feel tired easily
4. Constipation (Constipation and poor bowel movements)
Progesterone slows down the digestive system during pregnancy, which causes food to stay in the stomach for a long time and causes constipation. Iron-containing medications also often increase constipation.
The third major factor, the pressure of the baby, has an increasing effect on the intestines. Constipation can also cause problems like bloating, pain, piles/bleeding so it is important to be careful.
Solutions
- Fiber rich diet: lentils, green vegetables, fruits, whole wheat
- Enough water throughout the day
- Have a habit of drinking lukewarm water in the morning
- Light exercise – leg movements activate the intestines
- Discuss with your doctor if you need to change your iron supplement
5. Blocked Nose (Nasal congestion/rhinitis of pregnancy)
During pregnancy, there is increased blood circulation in the body, especially in the nasal veins.
This increased pressure and hormonal changes cause the inner surface of the nose to swell causing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Trouble sleeping
This problem is called “Pregnancy Rhinitis” and usually resolves itself after the baby is born.
Solutions
- Steam inhalation helps to open the nose
- Use saline nasal spray (as advised by your doctor)
- Keep a humidifier in the room
- Avoid excessive dust and smoke
- Keep your head elevated while sleeping
6. Backache (Waist and back pain)
Weight gain occurs during pregnancy, and pregnancy hormones loosen muscles and ligaments which puts more strain on the back.
The growing size and weight of the baby puts more pressure on the bones of the spine. Poor posture, prolonged standing, and work pressure are also factors that increase pain.
Solutions
- Sit in a comfortable position – proper back support
- Avoid carrying too much weight in one hand
- Light walking and prenatal yoga
- Massage with warm water
- Use a mattress or belt with lumbar support
7. Swollen Hands and Feet (Swelling – watery hands and feet)
Pregnancy increases water and blood flow in the body, which puts pressure on the veins in the arms and legs.
Standing all day, especially in the heat and with excess weight, can cause swelling in the feet, ankles and hands. This problem is more common in the third trimester.
If the swelling is accompanied by dizziness, headache, increased blood pressure or swelling in the face, consult a doctor immediately — as this could be a symptom of pre-eclampsia.
Solutions
- Don’t stand for long periods of time, rest your feet
- Sit with your feet slightly elevated
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Drink plenty of water — excess water in the body is flushed out
- Maintain a healthy salt balance — excess salt will increase swelling
8. Cramps (Leg cramps/tissue twitching)
Sudden cramps in the veins of the legs at night—especially around the calves—are a very common problem among pregnant women.
The main reason for this is:
- Deficiency of calcium, magnesium and potassium in the body
- Weight gain and changes in blood circulation
- Water shortage
Anxiety often disrupts sleep and makes you feel tired throughout the day.
Solutions
- Gentle leg stretching exercises
- Immerse your legs in warm water before going to bed
- A diet rich in calcium and magnesium
(milk, buttermilk, bananas, dried fruits) - Drink plenty of water
- Slowly straighten the leg muscles during pain
9. Insomnia (Insomnia/difficulty sleeping)
Hormonal changes, abdominal heaviness, leg cramps, frequent urination, and anxiety about delivery — all of these combine to disrupt your sleep cycle.
Finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes difficult in the third trimester, which often leads to sleep disturbances.
Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, fatigue, and lack of concentration throughout the day.
Solutions
- Sleep at a regular time according to the strain
- Reduce phone/screen use before bed
- Relaxing breathing-asana or meditation before bed
- Sleeping on the left side allows the baby to get more oxygen
- Reduce heavy and oily food at night
10. Bladder Problems (Urinary Problems – Frequent Urination & Incontinence)
During pregnancy, the baby’s position and weight put pressure on the bladder making it common to have to urinate frequently. In the third trimester, the pressure increases as the baby’s head drops completely.
In some cases, incontinence, or mild urine leakage especially when coughing, sneezing, or laughing occurs because the pelvic floor muscles become loose.
This problem may persist for some time after delivery but can quickly improve with proper exercises.
Solutions
- Drink enough water dilute urine reduces irritation
- Do pelvic floor exercises (Kegel) daily
- Avoid drinking too much water at night
- Go to the washroom immediately without holding the urge to urinate
- Lean forward slightly while urinating this will help empty the bladder properly
FAQs
Q1: What are the most common discomforts in pregnancy?
Morning sickness, acidity, back pain, constipation, swelling, etc.
Q2: Does morning sickness cause any harm to the baby?
No, it is usually a normal symptom of the baby’s development.
Q3: In which problem should one immediately go to the doctor?
High blood pressure, swelling in the face/eyes, bleeding, severe pain, etc.