Discomforts in Pregnancy

Discomforts of pregnancy 

Listed below are common complaints of pregnancy with remedies that may provide relief. 

If the remedies do not provide relief or if the condition worsens, please call the office at (210) 703-9001. 

Backache, Minor Aches and Pains 

Rest often and take a warm baths. Use correct posture and body alignment, avoid heavy lifting, squat to pick things up off the floor instead of bending at he waist. Sleep on a firm bed using as many pillows as needed for comfort. Wear shoes with low or no heels. Take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) as directed for minor aches and pains. 

Groin Pain 

Round ligament pain is a sharp, sudden pain in the groin area caused by the uterus stretching to accommodate the growing baby. Move carefully and avoid sudden movements. Roll over carefully when while in bed or getting up. Get off your feet when possible. There are abdominal support belts, which might help as well. 

Leg Cramps 

Wear support hose or stockings and low heeled or flat shoes. Elevating feet and warm baths may help. Increase milk and calcium intake. 

Swelling (Edema) 

Most pregnant woman experience edema at some point during their pregnancy. Support hose, elevation of the feet level with the heart, and resting on the left side may offer some relief. Do not wear rings if your hands are swollen. Diuretics also know as “water pills” are not recommended during pregnancy. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and lower salt intake. 

Varicose or “Spider Veins” 

Elevate feet as often as possible and wear support hose. These may or may not go away after the pregnancy. 

Sexual Intercourse 

Continue as long as comfortable. Spotting after intercourse may be normal if only a few spots of blood when wiping or on small pad, but you need to discuss it with your provider.  If spotting does not stop, becomes heavy to soak a pad or associated with cramping, proceed to Labor and Delivery for evaluation after 20 weeks.  Discontinue intercourse if you are leaking fluids. 

Chest Pain 

Go straight to the hospital, Emergency Department.  

Spotting 

Avoid sexual intercourse, tampons, or douching, and observe. If heavy cramping or bleeding requiring a pad occurs, call the office. 

Vaginal Discharge 

Vaginal discharge increases during pregnancy. If signs of infection occur, such as itching, foul odor, yellow or green discharge call the office for an appointment. Douching is not recommended especially during pregnancy. 

Leaking of fluid 

If leaking of fluids from the vagina occur whether a gush or a constant trickle call the office.