Pregnancy is an exciting adventure, but let’s be real: it often comes with a few not-so-fun common pregnancy discomforts.
From annoying aches to those unexpected gum issues, every trimester brings its own set of changes that can make you feel anything but glowing.
Here’s a guide to handling some of the most frequent discomforts during pregnancy, including safe and natural remedies that can help you find relief.
Tackling Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy
One surprising side effect of pregnancy? Bleeding gums. Thanks to hormonal changes, some people experience gum sensitivity that can lead to bloody gums during pregnancy—especially if you’re brushing with extra gusto.
Left unchecked, this can lead to periodontal disease, a condition linked to serious complications.
Periodontal disease is linked to preterm rupture of membranes?!?! What?!? More and more we are finding that our oral health affects our whole body, and in pregnancy, our baby. Up your dental game to reduce your chance of trouble.
Schedule a Dental Cleaning
It’s safe to have dental care during pregnancy, even fillings and emergency care. Your midwife will gladly write you a note so your dentist can perform the necessary repairs.
Choose a Soft Toothbrush
Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritating your gums. No need to scrub.
Floss Regularly
After brushing, flossing is critical! If you want to know if you have some gross bacteria brewing, smell your floss!
If it has an odor, you need to see your dentist ASAP!
Meanwhile, you can run your floss through a drop of Tea Tree oil mixed with a teaspoon of coconut oil to assist with any infection.
Crunchy Fruits and Veggies
Raw fruits and veggies can keep your gums healthy and reduce inflammation.
Boost Your Vitamin C Intake
Aim for 500–1000 mg of Vitamin C daily for stronger gums.
Headaches During Pregnancy: Tips to Keep Migraines at Bay
Headaches are a common pregnancy discomfort that can strike at any time, making it hard to get through the day.
Fortunately, there are effective, safe, and natural remedies for headaches during pregnancy to help manage them.
Nutrition and Hydration
- Regular Meals: Eat regularly, with 8–10 grams of protein every 2 hours.
- Stay Hydrated: Increase fluids, consider drinking 1 bottle of electrolytes a day, and a bottle of water by 10, 12, 2, 4, and 6.
- Keep a Food Journal: Some foods can trigger headaches, so note any patterns.
Comfort Techniques
- Cool Compress: Rest with a cool cloth on the forehead.
- Essential Oils: A drop of peppermint or lavender essential oil on your temples.
- Practice relaxation techniques
Medication and Care
- Safe Meds: Tylenol is generally safe, but always consult your doctor or midwife if headaches persist or if they are severe.
- Consider massage therapy or chiropractic care.
Heartburn and Gastric Reflux: Finding Pregnancy Heartburn Relief
Heartburn can make mealtime a bit of a minefield.
Many experience acid reflux during pregnancy thanks to hormonal shifts and physical changes as the baby grows, but small adjustments can ease the burn.
Dietary Tips
- Try dry crackers before you get out of bed.
- Avoid irritating, spicy, or greasy foods.
- Eat smaller meals and eat more often.
- Chew slowly and thoroughly.
- Try 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar or papaya enzymes before meals.
- Chew 6 raw almonds 75 times—yes, 75! You want to make almond milk in your mouth.
Supplement and Sleep Strategies
- Reduce, discontinue, or change iron supplements.
- Sleep propped up: Prop the head of your bed up 4 inches and never lie down after a meal.
Medication Recommendations
- SAFE MEDS: Pepcid first, then try Prilosec if you need to. Occasionally, Tums, but they are NOT good for frequent use!
Insomnia: Sleeping Through Pregnancy’s Rough Nights
Insomnia can be an exhausting part of pregnancy, especially as the months go on. While there’s no single fix, there are several approaches to help you find rest.
Daily Habits
- Exercise daily: Aim for a minimum of 20 minutes of walking.
- Get plenty of fresh air and sunshine.
- Eat meats early in the evening: A full stomach can lead to heartburn.
- Avoid caffeine.
Evening Routines
- Avoid taking multivitamins before bed or during the late afternoon.
- Have a warm bath with Epsom Salt or take a dose of Calm (magnesium supplement).
Relaxation Techniques
- Practice relaxation breathing exercises.
Medication Guidance
- SAFE MEDS: Benadryl or 1/2 of a Unisom. Consult your midwife if insomnia is not resolving.
Swelling During Pregnancy: Relieving Swollen Feet and Hands
By the third trimester, many experience swelling during pregnancy, often in the feet, ankles, and hands. Here are some quick tips for relief:
Symptoms and Positioning
- Swelling usually occurs after 28 weeks and may affect feet or hands.
- Lie on your left side when resting and sleeping.
- Change your position frequently to enhance circulation.
Hydration and Elevation
- Elevate feet twice daily for 15 minutes at a time.
- Increase water intake and add fresh lemon.
Important Warning
- **Symptoms such as headaches, blurry vision, upper right gastric pain, or rapid onset of swelling should be reported to your midwife immediately. **
Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
Due to added weight and blood volume, veins in the legs when pregnant can become swollen or varicose. Varicose veins may feel uncomfortable, but a few adjustments can help.
Support and Comfort
- Wear a maternity support hose.
- Try ice packs on affected areas.
- Lie down and elevate your legs for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 times per day.
Daily Habits
- Exercise daily.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
Important Warning
- **Consult your midwife if you experience painful swelling, increased heat, redness, or tenderness. **
Final Thoughts
Although pregnancy aches and pains can make everyday life less fun, remember that pregnancy doesn’t last forever, and you are doing big work every day growing a new life.
Usually, almost always, the discomforts don’t mean anything terrible, and they are just your body adjusting to all the changes that the new baby is bringing.
This, too, shall pass. Consult your midwife when needed, and remember—you’re doing amazing work!
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