10 common pregnancy symptoms and how to relieve them
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Pregnancy is one of the most awe-inspiring journeys your body will ever take. You’re building a whole human from scratch—organs, eyelashes, tiny toenails and all! But while that miracle unfolds inside you, your body is also undergoing massive changes that can bring a mix of joy and discomfort.
From relentless nausea to those mysterious sharp tugs in your belly, pregnancy symptoms can leave even the most prepared moms-to-be feeling a little overwhelmed. The good news? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer through it.
This guide breaks down the 10 most common pregnancy symptoms, what causes them, and what you can actually do to feel better. These remedies are OB-GYN approved and include top-rated, mom-loved products that are available on Amazon (yes, the ones with thousands of glowing reviews).
⚠️  Note: Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or remedy during pregnancy.
In this article
1. Nausea and vomiting
When it hits: Weeks 5–14, though some feel it earlier or longer.
Why it happens: Skyrocketing levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and heightened sensitivity to smells.
Relief strategies:
Eat small, frequent meals (bland snacks like crackers can help).
Keep ginger candies or Preggie Pop Drops on hand (doctor-approved and Amazon bestseller).
Wear Sea-Bands or other acupressure wristbands for natural relief.
Try a combo of Vitamin B6 and Unisom (after consulting your OB).
Ask your provider about prescription meds like Diclegis if symptoms are severe.
Top picks for nausea and vomiting
2. Round ligament pain
When it hits: 2nd trimester and beyond.
Why it happens: Your growing uterus stretches the ligaments supporting it, causing sharp or achy pain.
Relief strategies:
Move slowly when changing positions.
Rest with a pillow supporting your belly.
Use a maternity support band to reduce pulling.
Top pick for round ligament pain
3. Back and pelvic pain
When it hits: Mid to late pregnancy
Why it happens: Hormones relax your joints while your center of gravity shifts—ouch.
Relief strategies:
Stretch daily and practice prenatal yoga.
Wear a maternity support belt for posture alignment.
Consider chiropractic or pelvic floor therapy.
Top pick for back and pelvic pain
4. Constipation & heartburn
When it hits: Any trimester
Why it happens: Progesterone slows digestion; your uterus crowds your GI tract.
Constipation relief:
Eat fiber-rich foods (prunes, flaxseeds, leafy greens).
Stay hydrated.
Take a stool softener (ask your OB first).
Heartburn relief:
Avoid spicy and acidic foods.
Eat smaller meals and sit upright afterward.
Use antacids like TUMS or talk to your OB about Pepcid.
Top picks for constipation & heartburn
5. Leg cramps
When it hits: 2nd and 3rd trimesters
Why it happens: Circulatory changes and mineral imbalances.
Relief strategies:
Stretch your calves before bed.
Drink plenty of water.
Add magnesium glycinate (with OB approval).
Top pick for leg cramps
6. Trouble sleeping
When it hits: Often by the 2nd trimester.
Why it happens: Hormones, a growing belly, baby kicks, and nighttime bathroom runs.
Relief strategies:
Use a full-body pregnancy pillow for support.
Try a warm bath or herbal tea before bed.
Take Unisom occasionally if approved by your doctor.
Top pick for trouble sleeping
7. Swollen feet and ankles
When it hits: Late second and third trimester.
Why it happens: Your body retains more fluid and blood.
Relief strategies:
Elevate your legs during rest.
Limit salty foods.
Wear compression socks to improve circulation.
Top pick for swollen feet and ankles
8. Carpal tunnel syndrome
When it hits: Usually in the 3rd trimester.
Why it happens: Fluid retention compresses the median nerve.
Relief strategies:
Wear wrist braces at night.
Stretch your wrists and fingers often.
Apply cold packs to reduce swelling.
Top pick for carpal tunnel syndrome
9. Pregnancy-related anemia
When it hits: Mid to late pregnancy.
Why it happens: Your blood volume increases faster than red blood cells can keep up.
Relief strategies:
Eat iron-rich foods like beef, spinach, and lentils.
Take an iron supplement if your provider recommends it.
Top pick for pregnancy-related anemia
10. Headaches
When it hits: Common in the first and second trimesters.
Why it happens: Hormonal changes, dehydration, and blood sugar dips.
Relief strategies:
Drink water consistently.
Don’t skip meals.
Apply a cold compress to your forehead.
Consider magnesium glycinate with OB approval.
Top pick for headaches
Bonus comfort kit for common pregnancy symptoms
Here’s a shortlist of go-to comfort items many moms-to-be swear by:
- 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.
- Kindred Bravely Maternity 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 symptoms are real—and they can be tough. But with a little preparation, smart product choices, and support from your care team, you can ease the discomfort and focus on the joy of what’s to come.
Breathe. Rest. Nourish yourself. You’re doing something extraordinary—and you deserve to feel supported every step of the way.
Common questions about pregnancy symptoms
1. What are the most common pregnancy symptoms?
The most common symptoms include nausea, fatigue, back pain, heartburn, constipation, frequent urination, swollen feet, and sleep disturbances. These are typically caused by hormonal shifts and physical changes during pregnancy.
2. When do pregnancy symptoms start?
Many women begin experiencing symptoms as early as 1–2 weeks after conception. Nausea and fatigue often show up first, typically around weeks 5–6 of pregnancy.
3. How can I relieve pregnancy nausea naturally?
Natural nausea relief includes eating small, frequent meals, using ginger candies or Preggie Pop Drops, wearing acupressure wristbands, and taking vitamin B6 (with your doctor’s approval).
4. Are over-the-counter products safe during pregnancy?
Some OTC products like TUMS, Unisom, and Colace are generally considered safe but should always be discussed with your healthcare provider first.
5. What helps with pregnancy back pain at night?
Sleeping with a full-body pregnancy pillow and wearing a maternity support belt during the day can ease lower back pain. Prenatal yoga and light stretching also help.
6. How can I sleep better while pregnant?
Try sleeping on your left side with a pregnancy pillow for support, practicing a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding heavy meals before bed.
7. Is it normal to have leg cramps during pregnancy?
Yes, leg cramps are common—especially in the second and third trimesters. Staying hydrated and taking magnesium (with OB approval) may help reduce cramps.
8. Can I take iron supplements while pregnant?
Yes, if your doctor diagnoses anemia or recommends extra iron. Slow-release iron supplements like Slow Fe are gentle and effective options.
9. What products help relieve pregnancy discomfort?
Top products include maternity support belts, compression socks, pregnancy pillows, anti-nausea drops, and safe stool softeners like Colace.
10. When should I call my doctor about pregnancy symptoms?
Call your provider if symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfere with daily life—especially for intense headaches, vision changes, bleeding, or decreased fetal movement.
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.Â
Content contribution & expert reviewed by
Mindy Motta, FNP-CÂ
Mindy is a seasoned OB-GYN Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Awaiting the Stork™. After overcoming her own years-long fertility journey, she now blends clinical expertise with heartfelt empathy to offer new mom advice and evidence-based support for every stage of motherhood. Mindy’s mission is to nurture confidence, connection, and clarity for women stepping into motherhood’s many joys and challenges.
