Pregnancy is a time to celebrate family. Yet many women today find themselves single and pregnant. Sometimes by choice, and other times by their partners inability to accept responsibility. In fact, according to statistics, being single and pregnant is no longer a ‘condition’ afflicting only teenagers and there are thousands of woman making the empowered decision to go through pregnancy alone. The US Census reports that 1/3rd of the 6 million pregnant women over the age of 22 are single.

See – you ARE NOT alone.

Still, in a world that offers so much information for pregnant woman and ‘their husbands’ it can be hard to feel like your relationship status allows you to have a socially ‘accepted’ pregnancy when you go it alone. However, the good news is that the times are changing. Women today are making empowered and smart choices about whether or not partnering with the father of their child is a good idea, and often realize that going it alone is a better option in the long run. Even better is that women who proceed with their pregnancies solo are able to find wonderful support systems from friends and family. Disappearing are the days of shot gun weddings and scarlet letters.

If you are single and pregnant (whether by choice or otherwise) you owe it to yourself to take the time to enjoy your pregnancy and feel happy about the new little baby that will be entering your life. There may be times when you wish you had the support of loving father figure to help you with your pregnancy, but this is not a time to dwell on what could have been.

You should also take time to look into resources both local and otherwise, that can help you financially and emotionally. There are many support groups for single mothers that can not only connect you with other single pregnant mothers, but can also help you make smart choices when it comes to future planning for you and your baby. The support system of other women who are facing the same challenges of you can be a lifesaver and you may find lifelong friends.

Of course, you will be worried about how you will take care of your baby. Keep in mind that there are millions of single mothers in the world today who support their children just fine. And you might be surprised how supportive friends and family members can be when it comes to planning for childcare. If the father of your baby refuses to be involved, you also have the option of collecting child support after the baby is born.

The most important thing to remember is that you are a powerful and capable person. The judgments and thoughts of other people are none of your business, and you should never feel ashamed nor embarrassed that you are single and pregnant. One of the most important aspects of raising a happy and healthy child is the presence of a happy and emotionally healthy mother. Certainly, it can be hard to forgive someone that you feel abandoned you – but learning to do so will only make your pregnancy, and your life after delivery more enjoyable and fulfilling. Remember the only actions that you can control are your own – and you are NOT responsible for the choices made by other people.

In so many ways, it is empowering that women today have a choice to have babies on their own. Rather than remaining stuck with irresponsible partners, or in abusive relationships or with people that they don’t really love or who would not be a good parent – women today are afforded the resources and RESPECT to do it alone. Hold your head high, and have faith that whatever challenges come your way will not be more than you can handle.

Written By Stef, Mother of 4 @MOM-SPIRATIONAL

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

Pregnancy is the last time (at least for quite a while) you will have a chance to travel by yourself or just with your partner. Planning a trip mid-pregnancy can be a great way to celebrate the occasion of your impending parenthood. But it can also lead to questions about safe travel for the mom-to-be.

If you do not have any complications, travel during pregnancy is typically just fine. The best place to start your planning is to ask your healthcare provider if you have any risk factors that would limit your ability to travel. Let your provider know if you plan to travel by car or by air, as this may make a difference in his or her recommendations.

If you are planning to fly somewhere, consider these travel tips for pregnancy:

• Most airlines let women fly up to 35 or 36 weeks of pregnancy, but be sure to check before you purchase your tickets. Your destination – domestic or international – might make a difference, too.
• Avoid nonstop overseas or cross-country flights. These high-altitude flights can increase your heart rate, as well as your baby’s, and cause both of you to receive less oxygen.
• If swelling has been a problem, wear loose-fitting shoes and clothes. Consider not wearing pantyhose, knee socks or anything with a tight waistline.
• Find out if a meal will be served, and if there are options for pregnant moms. Bring along nutritious snacks, especially if the flight is long.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your trip.
• Try to walk as often as you can during your flight, at least every hour. Sometimes just standing up helps your circulation, and your comfort level.
• Try to get an aisle seat, close to the bathroom – especially important for pregnant moms!

If you are traveling by car (or bus or train), here are some things to consider:

• Always wear your seatbelt. Seat belts do not increase the risk of injury to you or your baby, but actually protect you both. Wear the lap portion across your hips and under your belly, and the shoulder portion across your chest.
• If you are in an automobile, move your seat back so you have at least 10 inches between your body and the airbag.
• If possible, share the driving time with your partner or other travel companion.
• Stop frequently to stretch and use the restroom. This will help with your circulation, and can keep your back from hurting from long periods of sitting.
• Dress comfortably. You want clothes that don’t constrict – including socks!

The biggest risk of traveling during pregnancy – and probably your biggest worry – is developing a problem while you’re away from those who know your medical and pregnancy history. It’s common to feel that way, but don’t make it your deciding factor. Take time to plan your trip with pregnancy in mind, be sure you don’t try to do too much while you’re there, and then relax and enjoy yourself!

Zika virus alert: Zika is a virus spread by mosquitos that typically causes a mild and short-lived infection. The Zika virus can, however, cause very serious birth defects if your fetus is exposed. If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, health experts recommend postponing any non-essential travel to areas of the world where Zika virus is prevalent. Zika has been found in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, a number of Pacific island countries, and several countries in Africa. In the US, Zika has been found in Florida. If you’re planning to travel to one of these areas, speak with your healthcare provider about the best way to protect yourself and your unborn baby.

Written by Team Health & Parenting

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

When you become pregnant, your body and mind will go through a multitude of changes. Some of these changes in mood and emotions are simply a result of hormones. Others are physical and coincide with the changes going on with your body. But mostly, the changes that occur during pregnancy are ones of transition – as you grow from one thing to another. From a woman to a mother.

Lots of people, lots of books and lots of websites and doctors have plenty of advice to give you. In fact, soaking it all in can be overwhelming. Today we share with you the 5 pregnancy tips you should know, that might just save your sanity.

1. Find out what you NEED to know and nothing more. The Internet gives us too much information and one Google search can have you spinning with worry and fret. If you have a question – ask your doctor, ask a friend, or do a simple search.  Stop reading when you start getting overloaded with too much information. And know when to stop listening to other people who think they are helping by giving you advice.

2. Trust yourself, your feelings, your intuition and your body. If you think something is wrong – then call the doctor. If your intuition tells you something, then believe it. No one knows YOU better than YOU. No one knows what YOUR pregnancy feels like better than YOU. If you complain to a physician and they give you a substandard answer that doesn’t feel right to you – dig further.

3. You don’t need a book to teach you how to become a mother. Sure, some baby proofing tips, some nutrition guidelines, and researching some options of child rearing are natural and normal. But motherhood is one thing you cannot learn from a book. You were BORN to be a mother. You WILL be an awesome mom, as soon as you realize to trust yourself and your instincts. Your baby won’t come with an instruction manual, this is true – but YOU will be able to provide him or her with everything he or she needs. If you have questions, ask. But remember that deep inside of you, you already know the right thing.

4.  Enjoy your pregnancy. It’s easy to get lost in the aches and pains, the stresses and the inability to see your feet. You may feel cumbersome and uncomfortable. You may worry. You may have indigestion, or feel nauseated. Still, take time to enjoy your pregnancy and to be thoroughly present during your pregnancy. Relish in those moments where you get to feel the baby move inside of you. Feel the magic when you hear your baby’s heartbeat. Enjoy how fast you are growing. Realize the miracle you are creating. The last thing you want is to feel regrets that you failed to enjoy your pregnancy once it’s over. This is YOUR time!  ENJOY IT. Even if you get pregnant again, you will never have THIS pregnancy again.

5.  Do pregnancy YOUR way! Remember, you don’t get a redo on this. If you have dreams of pregnancy, or want to wear a beautiful dress, or have your belly painted or casted, or pay for a 3D ultrasound – do it! It doesn’t matter what other people think. Make your pregnancy your own by making it as special as you want it to be!

Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

We know what you are thinking? Yuck, right. Here you are pregnant and beautiful and glowing, and ‘smelly’? You knew that pregnancy was going to change things, but you may not have prepared yourself for the unpleasant side effect of vaginal odor. And now, every time you go to your prenatal visit, not only do you have to get used to being disrobed and poked and prodded, but you are concerned you are going to knock your provider out with your ‘vaginal odor.’

Vaginal odor during pregnancy is actually quite normal. Of course, if you begin to notice a pungent odor that is present with a chunky discharge, itching, irritation or pain – your best course of action is to contact your health provider. With increased hormone production (yep, its always the hormones) and increased moisture in the vaginal area – you may run a higher risk of vaginal yeast infections, or bacterial infections.  And if a yeast infection is the source of the odor, your doctor is the best person to give you advice on how to handle it. They will also perform tests to make sure that the infection is not something more than a yeast infection.

Even so, around 65% of all women report that they have an odor, from strong to light – that seems to coincide with pregnancy. And many women are embarrassed about it. First of all, realize this: Your OBGYN or prenatal provider has literally seen, heard and smelled it all. They are in the business of vaginas, and taking care of women. So while you may feel embarrassed, there is no reason to be. Chances are you aren’t the first women to walk into the exam room horrified that your vaginal smell is going to make the doctor gag. It won’t (Pinky swear promise!).

Secondly, if all your tests come back negative – for yeast infections, bacterial infections and STD’s – it may just be the hormonal changes that are causing the smell. If this just showed up during pregnancy – chances are it will also go away once your baby is born. In the meantime, staying as dry as possible, changing your underwear frequently, wearing cotton underwear, using light pads and even carrying feminine wipes may help you to feel less self conscious. Thirdly, realize that while you may think everyone can ‘smell’ you – they can’t. Seriously, how often have you ever smelled another woman’s vaginal odor while she was fully clothed walking around the grocery store? Never, right. So try to shake it off as much as possible. As long as you have taken steps and have been checked out by your doctor – you will likely just have to wait it out.

In some cases, it may be the foods that you eat or the spices you use that are causing the smell. With increased secretions of the vaginal area and the sebaceous sweat glands during pregnancy, the foods and spices synthesized by your skin can often be the culprit.  So if you eat a lot of spicy foods – try altering your diet.

Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Becoming a parent is life-changing, and from the moment you hold your child for the first time, life will never be the same again. For the mother, life changed as soon as she discovered she was pregnant. While you may be able to go about your business unaffected by the pregnancy, your partner doesn’t have that luxury. It’s hard to forget a pregnancy when you’re the one with the bump.

You can’t give birth for her, or carry the pregnancy to term, but there are things you can do to support your pregnant partner:

Listen
Many women find pregnancy to be an overwhelming time emotionally, and it’s not just the hormones. Becoming a parent can be daunting, and some women feel scared of the process of giving birth. Make sure your partner knows she can talk to you, and be sure to listen and offer support when she does. If she is scared of giving birth, reassure her that she’ll be great. If she’s worried about becoming a mother, tell her why you know she’ll make an amazing mum.

Talk
Your partner is probably worried about you too, so do talk to her about your fears. Chances are, you’re worried about lots of the same things. Common concerns for expectant parents include the cost of raising a child, the impact upon your relationship, and the fear of not being good parents. They say a problem shared is a problem halved, so why not put that theory to the test?

Help
Take on extra duties around the home. If your partner is struggling with exhaustion or aches and pains, she may be struggling to keep up with her busy life. You can take some of the pressure off her by helping out more around the home.

Sleep
Growing a person is hard work, and can really take it out of you, so make sure your partner is getting enough sleep. It’s not easy for a heavily pregnant woman to find a comfortable sleeping position and fall asleep without having to go to the bathroom, and if by some miracle she does manage it, you don’t want to be the person who accidentally wakes her up. Let her have lie-ins on weekends, naps on the sofa and as much sleep as she needs.

Interest
In most couples, the expectant mum reads all the literature, and the dad receives a short summary. Show an interest in the pregnancy, birth and baby information your partner shares with you. You could even do some reading of your own. There’s plenty of information out there. Your partner will want you prepared for the birth, so make sure you know what to expect and how you can be useful on the day.

Nest
Your partner will probably nest towards the end of her pregnancy. This could mean dusting high shelves, pulling out furniture or rearranging the spice rack. You can nest too, and help to get your home prepared for the baby’s arrival. One job that many dads-to-be take pride in, is decorating the nursery. Get involved with selecting furniture, colour schemes and toys to adorn your baby’s bedroom. Seeing you get into this will help your partner to feel more relaxed and ready for the baby too.

What else are you doing to support your pregnant partner?

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Ok, so you’ve decided that the idea of keeping a pregnancy journal appeals to your sentimental and creative sides. You’ve bought yourself a beautiful journal, a shiny new pen, and you’ve written and underlined the date at the top of the first page. The only problem is, now you’ve hit a serious case of writer’s block. So, what should you be writing in your pregnancy journal, and how can you help the writing come naturally?

It’s all about the details
Each entry should include information like how many weeks pregnant you are, and what you’ve been doing that week. Have you been to any midwife appointments, or did you have a surprise baby shower this week? Perhaps you’ve been to family functions, or had a busy week at work. Don’t feel under pressure to just focus on the pregnancy, your journal should capture what life is like for you during the pregnancy.

Write about the pregnancy
Have you been throwing up every morning on your commute to work, snoring on the sofa long before bedtime, or suffering with indigestion after meals? Write it all down. In years to come, you may share this diary with your daughter, as she embarks on her first pregnancy, and she may find it interesting to compare and contrast her symptoms with yours.

Be honest
This doesn’t need to be a rose-tinted gloss version of pregnancy. Your journal should reflect your experiences, and this includes the negatives aspects, too. The crippling doubts of whether you’ll be a good mother that keep you awake at night, are as much a part of your pregnancy as the excitement over decorating the nursery. Writing about worries may even help you work through them so they don’t impact your birth.

Keep it friendly
Imagine the journal is one of your good friends, and just let the writing flow freely. It doesn’t matter if your handwriting is neat, or your entries are grammatically correct, what matters is that you tell the story of your pregnancy. It’s not going to be a bestseller, it’s going to be your own little piece of history to look book on in years to come.

Stick things in
Taking regular bump photos is a fantastic way to document the pregnancy. You could do weekly or monthly photos, and stick them in with your journal entries. Scan photos, birth plans and receipts for first outfits are also great little keepsakes. Tokens from your baby shower, any good luck cards from colleagues, and even any notes written by your partner, will be great things to look back on in the future.

Are you keeping a pregnancy journal, and if so, how do you keep writer’s block at bay?

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

We are all adults here and while the word ‘herpes’ may cause shame and embarrassment, the truth is it more common than you think. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the reality is that as many as two thirds of the population is likely infected with some form of herpes.

What is it?

Essentially, herpes is a virus that lies dormant in your body until you are under stress or turmoil, or your immune system is compromised. For most people afflicted with herpes who receive medical attention, controlling the spread of the disease and managing the disease become a part of daily life. These people can live long, healthy and sexually-active lives without much backlash.

Will it harm my baby?

For women living with herpes who are pregnant, the biggest risk is passing the virus to their baby. This occurs if you are newly infected during the third trimester of pregnancy, or if you are having an outbreak when you go into labor. According to the CDC, women who have herpes under control, and who are not having an active infection during labor and delivery have less than a 1% chance of passing the virus to their baby. On the flip side, if the virus is ‘shedding’ or otherwise active during labor – many doctors will suggest that you have a cesarean birth to avoid infecting your baby. The American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends all women 36 weeks pregnant with a history of herpes take an oral anti-viral medication during the last month of pregnancy to lessen any chances that you will have an active infection when labor starts. This medication is considered safe for pregnant women, with no known side effects to your developing baby.

What can I do if I have herpes?

The biggest thing is for you to be honest with your practitioner during your pregnancy. While you may feel embarrassed, your doctor has likely dealt with a large number of pregnant women who have herpes. So if you have it – even if you haven’t had an infection for years – tell your doctor. This way when you have your exams, your provider can check for active lesions and you can be armed with the information you need to protect your baby.

The good news is that after your initial herpes infection, your body develops anti-bodies to the virus. These antibodies are passed onto your baby in the placenta, which is why experts believe your risk of passing the virus to your baby is low. Still, erring on the side of caution is your best defense. If you are having a difficult pregnancy that leaves you with fatigue or weakens your immune system, remember that an outbreak is highly possible. If you get an infection during pregnancy, call your physician for guidance. Above all, take strides to take care of yourself during pregnancy.

Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron, and this leads to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body. There are other forms of anaemia, but iron deficiency anaemia is the most common.

Anaemia during pregnancy
Iron is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to your developing baby. Pregnant women need to consume 14.8mg of iron a day, to make sure the baby is getting enough nutrients. Anaemia is a common condition during pregnancy.

You are more likely to develop anaemia during pregnancy if you:

• suffered from severe morning sickness
• are pregnant with multiples
• have recently had a baby
• have previously suffered from anaemia during pregnancy

Symptoms of anaemia
The most common symptoms of anaemia include:

• tiredness
• lethargy
• shortness of breath
• dizziness
• headaches
• a pale complexion
• heart palpitations

Treatment for anaemia
Anaemia is most common during the second half of the pregnancy, when the iron stores in the body are running low. Your iron levels will be checked during one of your routine blood tests. If the tests reveal that you are suffering from anaemia or low iron levels, you will be offered an iron supplement to take.

During pregnancy, you have an increased risk of suffering from constipation, so you won’t be pleased to hear that this is a common side effect of iron supplements. Try drinking prune juice, eating a high-fibre breakfast cereal, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day, to reduce your chance of suffering from constipation.

Most women find the anaemia disappears after taking the iron supplements, however a small percentage of women may still suffer from low iron levels. These women are offered iron injections to treat the anaemia.

How to avoid anaemia during pregnancy
The key to avoiding anaemia, is to make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in iron. You should make sure you eat a variety of the following iron-rich foods:

• green leafy vegetables – spinach, watercress and kale are all high in dietary iron
• nuts and seeds – a handful of mixed nuts and seeds each day will increase your iron intake
• dried fruit – snacking on dried fruit throughout the day can increase your iron intake
• pulses – baked beans, and other beans, are high in iron
• lean meats – choosing lean meat can increase your iron levels
• fortified foods – soya milk and breakfast cereals are often fortified with iron and other minerals
• molasses – use this during baking to add iron to your diet

Try drinking a glass of orange juice alongside iron-rich foods. Orange juice makes it easier for your body to absorb iron from food. You should try to avoid consuming dairy products and caffeine with meals, as these foods can actually inhibit iron absorption.

How are you making sure you eat enough iron-rich foods during pregnancy?

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

When you’re pregnant, it feels like the entire world is trying to sell you things. They want you to buy their baby clothes, take their pregnancy supplements and save with their bank accounts. All of a sudden, a whole world of products you didn’t even know existed, is inviting you (and your soon-to-be maxed out credit card) inside for a look around. It’s easy to lose your way in the beautiful department stores, with their pristine display nurseries, and end up buying one of everything, even if you don’t know what half the products do.

As a mum-to-be with a teeny bladder, a love for baby clothes and a lot of hormones forcing you to cry at the smallest upset, you might feel like you need some help in the shopping department. If you’re on a budget, or like to keep things to a minimum, you might be wondering which items you need, and which will end up gathering dust. Here’s a list of five useless baby products being marketed to new parents.

Top and tail tub
Ok, some of you may find this useful, but realistically you could easily use two small tubs from around the house. You shouldn’t wash your baby’s face with the water you just used to wash their bum, but do you really need a whole new product to remember that?

Wipe warmer
Yep, you read that right, a warmer to heat your baby wipes. While it sounds like a wonderful idea, it is quite unnecessary and a lot of new parents mention this when discussing pointless purchases. Your baby won’t be horrified by room temperature wipes, so don’t waste money on this item. If you really want one, ask your parent friends if anyone has one stored away that you could borrow.

Nursing chair
These overpriced seats will set you back a pretty penny, but you’ll be unlikely to get your money worth. If you’re feeding the baby, you’re most likely to be seated in front of the TV so you have some entertainment, not sitting alone in a nursery with nothing but glass-eyed bears for company. During the early months, your baby is likely to be sleeping in your room anyway, so why not wait until your little one moves into their room before deciding whether this is a necessary purchase.

Matching cot set
When you’re waddling round the baby department, gazing at the kitted out pseudo-nurseries while rubbing your hand over your growing bump, you will probably feel an overwhelming urge to buy a matching cot set. After all, it comes with everything you could possibly need, and it all matches! But don’t waste your money, most of the set will go unused because bumpers, comforters and pillows increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While the sheet may still look beautiful, it’s probably not worth buying a whole set for.

Baby helmet
The baby you made is precious, and of course you don’t want him to bump his head. But, sadly, head bumps are a part of life. Parental supervision in the early days should ensure your child doesn’t suffer a serious head injury from a fall, so there’s no need to whack a helmet on him.

If you’re expecting your first child, speak to your mum friends to find out what they consider to be useless items. You don’t have to take their advice, if you want to buy a wipe warmer anyway then go right ahead. You could even see if anyone has one you can borrow to see whether it’s worth buying one.

Do you disagree with the list above? What would be on your list of five useless baby products?

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Even if you are wishing for a smooth and easy pregnancy, there are many kinds of discomforting aches and pains that you may experience. Most of these discomforts are caused by the changes that are taking place in your body, such as the stretching of muscles and the increasing heaviness of your uterus. While you might be feeling highly uncomfortable due to these pains, they are very normal and not something to be alarmed about.

What Types of Pains and Aches are Common in Pregnancy?

Headaches Most of the time, experiencing a headache due to increased tension and stress is very common during pregnancy. They can also be caused due to high blood pressure, so if they happen often or are accompanied by other symptoms, let your doctor know.

Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids are caused due to unusually swollen blood vessels in the lower rectal area. They can cause anywhere between a slight ache or extreme pain, and can often lead to slight bleeding. Often they are quite itchy.

Heartburn Heartburn or acid indigestion is a common problem during pregnancy that results due to the hormonal changes that you undergo during this period. If you are having cravings for spicy food, you might experience such pain more often.

Leg Cramps Leg cramps are also quite common during pregnancy. They might be caused due to the increasing weight of your belly and the pressure exerted on your legs from your growing uterus.

Lower Back Pain As your belly expands during pregnancy, gravity pulls you forward, and this can lead to aches in the lower back area. These types of aches might also be caused due to the hormonal changes and might extend to the pelvis and buttocks area.

Round Ligament Pain Round ligament pain occurs in the lower abdomen or groin area of the body, usually after the start of the second trimester. You might experience a dull ache in the area for long time periods while occasionally experiencing a sharp stab of pain.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome Due to the hormonal changes and extra fluids in your body during pregnancy, you might suffer from carpel tunnel syndrome which causes swelling and numbness in the hands.

How to Deal With These Aches and Pains

Completely avoiding these pains during pregnancy is not usually possible. However, you can definitely look for possible relief by being careful and adopting some habits while you are pregnant. Here are some tips that can help you keep away from most of these pains:

• Maintain straight posture while sitting and use pillows to support your back.
• Lie down and lift your feet up on a pillow to regulate blood flow and avoid clotting.
• Make a regular exercise regimen to follow throughout your pregnancy or take a walk every day.
• Wear flat and comfortable shoes and avoid flip flops and high heels.
• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Take a bath in warm water to relieve muscle pain and tension.
• Get a massage if you are experiencing back or leg aches.

If you are experiencing severe or persistent pain, you shouldn’t hesitate in consulting your medical practitioner. Trust your intuition – it is better to be careful during pregnancy to avoid any complications.

Have a comfortable, smooth and safe pregnancy!

Written by Manal, first time mom and writer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.