Most women go through pregnancy without any trouble at all. However, there are some who complain of slight discomforts which can easily be overcome without much difficulty.
Mild nausea and vomiting
This may come in the morning or at other times of the day. It is likely to occur during the earlier weeks of pregnancy especially when the woman in nervous and tense. Mild nausea and vomiting usually subside before the end of the third month when she becomes adjusted to the hormonal changes in her body. To minimize the discomfort, she should eat crackers, biscuit or anything sweet with a glass of milk. She should take four or five small meals daily instead of three large ones to overcome nausea and vomiting.
Constipation
Constipation is the difficult passage of the feces. In pregnancy, constipation is due to the crowding of the large intestines by the enlarging uterus. A diet containing vegan recipes and sufficient vegetables, fruits, whole grain product and liquids, together with the development of regular and leisurely toilet habit, will help prevent constipation.
Edema or slight swelling of the feet
Slight swelling of the feet is but normal. However, a pregnant woman should avoid salty foods like dried fish, or fish sauce, and the like. A salty diet causes water retention in the body cells. The feet should be elevated whenever lying or sitting down.
Varicose veins
Varicosities are enlargements of the leg veins just beneath the skin. Varicose veins and swollen legs are usually caused by pressure of the enlarging uterus upon the large blood vessels returning blood from the legs. Varicosities are characterized by dull aching pains, fatigue, a sense of weight heaviness or other symptoms such as itching. Varicose veins may be minimized by wearing loose clothing, avoiding standing for long periods, elevating feet when sitting and wearing elastic stockings and eating not so fatty food. Vegan recipes will help to lessen a pregnant women’s weight.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the rectum. Constipation is the main cause of hemorrhoids. Cold witch hazel compress usually relieves some discomfort. However, any more drastic treatment must be prescribed by an obstetrician. To prevent the occurrence of hemorrhoids, take care you are not constipated very often.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat. It has nothing to do with the heart. However, it is a kind of indigestion causing pain near the heart and a bitter belching from the stomach. The growing baby presses up against the stomach during the digestion. To relieve discomfort, the expectant mother should diminish food intake for a while and avoid spicy foods, carbonated and alcohol drinks. Vegan recipes are much advisable. Antacid preparation usually provides considerable relief. But it is better to get medical direction from the obstetrician.
Leg cramps and muscular cramps
This is a common occurrence during pregnancy. More rest during the day will help. A light massage of the legs will give some relief. The expectant mother must also eat more vegetables, vitamin B-rich food and drink more milk.
Fatigue and somnolence
Early in pregnancy, most women complain of fatigue and a desire for excessive periods of sleep. This condition usually remits spontaneously by the fourth month of pregnancy.
Vaginal discharge
An increased white discharge is a result of increase blood and tissue supply to the vagina in preparation for childbirth. Personal hygiene or cleanliness is all necessary.