How to Deal with Aches and Pains During Pregnancy

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.