Pregnancy is a time of incredible change as your body supports and nurtures your growing baby, and you may notice new (and sometimes uncomfortable!) sensations along the way. Rest assured that there are many safe and effective ways to stay comfortable and feel your best during this special time.
- Morning Sickness
Though it usually improves after the first trimester, morning sickness can be stressful and uncomfortable.
- Eat small, healthy snacks throughout the day, rather than eating three big meals.
- Consider a diet with bland foods, like toast, bananas, and applesauce.
- Eat or drink ginger products (tea, chews, or drinks).
- Get up slowly in the morning.
2. Fatigue
Feeling extra tired is completely normal as your body works hard to support your baby.
- Get plenty of rest. Try to prioritize sleep and take naps when you feel like you need to.
- Stay active. Keeping physically active during the day can boost your energy, help you feel more alert, along with supporting more restful sleep at night.
- Eat iron-rich foods like red meat, dark leafy greens, and whole grains.
3. Heartburn
Heartburn affects around half of pregnant women, especially during the second and third trimesters.
- Snack during the day. Keeping things in your stomach, but not overfilling it, can help with burning sensations.
- When you lie down, make sure your head is elevated above your stomach.
- Don’t eat right before laying down.
- Eat dairy. This can help soothe the stomach lining.
4. Soreness
As your body changes, you may notice aches in your back, hips, or legs. To counter this, you can:
- Exercise. Staying physically active during pregnancy can help remove the strain on certain parts of the body as well as strengthening your muscles.
- Take warm baths and use heating pads. Warmth helps relax strained muscles.
- Drink electrolytes. These can be found in coconut water, milk, fruit juices, and smoothies.
5. Constipation
Changes in hormones, alongside a slowed digestive tract, can lead to constipation.
- Eat plenty of fiber. Eating vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, and seeds can help release your digestive tract.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Stay active to stimulate digestion.
- Try a prenatal vitamin with gentle iron, as iron can contribute to constipation.
Facing an Unexpected Pregnancy?
ComfortCare Women’s Health in Staunton, Virginia offers free services relating to pregnancy, including:
- Medical-grade pregnancy testing
- Limited OB ultrasounds
- Pregnancy options counseling
- STI testing
- STI treatment*
*STI treatment depends on the type of STI.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Call or chat online to make your free appointment with us today.
📞 540-885-6261 🌐 ccwomenshealth.org 📍 12 Hedgerow Dr., Staunton, VA 24401
