10 common pregnancy symptoms and how to relieve them

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Pregnancy is an incredible journey, full of milestones like feeling your baby move for the first time and watching your belly grow. Knowing you're nurturing a new life is nothing short of miraculous! But let's be real—pregnancy also comes with its fair share of discomforts. These symptoms, often caused by hormonal changes and your growing uterus, can sometimes take the sparkle out of this exciting time.

The good news? There are plenty of ways to manage and ease these discomforts so you can enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest. Below is a list of the most common pregnancy symptoms and practical remedies to help you feel better. (Always check with your doctor to determine the best treatments for you.)

1. Nausea and vomiting

Thanks to the pregnancy hormone HCG, nausea, vomiting, and even smell aversions are all too common in the early months.

How to relieve:

• Eat small, frequent meals. Crackers and plain snacks can be a lifesaver.
• Try Preggie Pop Drops for nausea relief.
• Use anti-nausea wrist bands, which apply pressure to help ease queasiness.
• Consider Unisom and vitamin B6 supplements (with your doctor’s approval).
• Acupuncture can also provide relief for some women.
• If nausea persists, ask your doctor about prescription medications.

2. Round ligament pain

As your uterus stretches, you may feel pulling or aching pain along the sides of your belly.

How to relieve:

• Rest whenever possible.
• Wear a belly support band like the AZMED Maternity Belt to ease strain.

3. Back and pelvic pain

The weight of your growing baby and hormonal changes can contribute to back and pelvic discomfort, especially if you had prior injuries.

How to relieve:

• Invest in a supportive Maternity belly band.
• Consider pelvic floor therapy, chiropractic care, or physical therapy.
• Ask your doctor for referrals if the pain is severe.

4. Constipation and heartburn

Hormonal changes in pregnancy can slow digestion, causing constipation and heartburn.

How to relieve constipation:

• Eat prunes or drink prune juice.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Try a stool softener like Colace or Milk of Magnesia (consult your doctor first).
• Add a magnesium oxide supplement to your routine.

How to relieve heartburn:

• Take antacids like Tums, or ask your doctor about Pepcid or Prilosec.
• Avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods.
• Sit upright after meals to reduce reflux.

5. Leg cramps

Your growing uterus can make blood return to your heart less efficient, leading to leg cramps.

How to relieve:

• Wear compression stockings to improve circulation.
• Take a magnesium supplement to reduce cramping.

6. Uncomfortable sleeping

A growing belly can make finding a comfortable sleep position tricky.

How to relieve:

• Use a pregnancy body pillow, like the Leachco Snoogle, to support your back and belly.
• Take Unisom for occasional sleep disruptions (with your doctor’s approval).

7. Leg swelling

Swollen feet and ankles are a common annoyance in later pregnancy.

How to relieve:

• Limit your salt intake.
• Elevate your feet whenever possible.
• Wear compression socks for additional support.

8. Aching hands

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common pregnancy complaint, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands.

How to relieve:

• Wear a wrist brace for carpal tunnel, especially at night.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• For severe pain, ask your doctor about physical therapy or steroid injections.

9. Anemia

Anemia is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume, which can dilute your red blood cells.

How to relieve:

• Increase your intake of iron-rich foods like spinach, beans, and lean meat.
• Take an iron supplement like Slow Fe if recommended by your doctor.

10. Headaches

Hormonal changes can trigger headaches, especially during the first and second trimesters.

How to relieve:

• Stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals.
• Rest in a dark, quiet room.
• Apply a cold compress to your forehead or the back of your neck.
• Take a Magnesium Glycinate supplement
• Talk to your doctor before taking any pain relief medications.

Products to make pregnancy more comfortable

Here are some highly recommended products to address common pregnancy discomforts:

• AZMED Maternity Belt: Provides excellent support for your growing belly.
• Momcozy Pregnancy Body Pillow: A game-changer for better sleep during pregnancy.
• Preggie Pop drops: Nausea relief that’s both effective and convenient.
• Compression socks: Improve circulation and reduce swelling in your legs and feet.
• Colace stool softner: A safe option for easing constipation (with your doctor’s approval).

Final thoughts

Pregnancy may come with its share of challenges, but with the right tools and remedies, you can feel more comfortable and better equipped to handle these changes. Remember, every pregnancy is unique—what works for one person may not work for another. Be sure to consult with your doctor to find the best solutions for your symptoms.

Most importantly, give yourself grace and take it one day at a time. You’re growing a beautiful new life, and that’s an incredible accomplishment!

The content on Awaiting the Stork™ is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare professional to address your unique health needs and circumstances.