Body Changes During Pregnancy

Food cravings

Very common at any stage in pregnancy. Digestion problems can appear at any stage and you may want odd food mixtures, or get a liking for large quantities of something you haven't enjoyed before. Though as long as you continue to eat a healthy diet you don't need to worry.

Bleeding gums/Gingivitis

You may discover that your gums bleed more easily during pregnancy. Make sure you clean your teeth and gums thoroughly twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Remember that dental treatment is free while you are pregnant and for a year after the birth of your child.

Heartburn (Indigestion)

A burning sensation round the breastbone, caused by stomach juices and foods. This indisposition happens more common in later pregnancy. Eat small quantities of food more often if you are affected by this. Take your time when you eat. Remember that some of the foods that can cause heartburn are as follows: strong tea/coffee, pure fruit juice, spicy and fatty foods, so try to avoid them if possible.

Constipation

This is very common in pregnancy. To increase your fibre intake eat more fresh fruit and vegetables and more wholegrain breads and cereals. Drink more - a glass of water with every meal and in between.

Thrush

Thrush is a thick white vaginal discharge, accompanied by itching and soreness, also known as candidiasis. Noticing something like that please consult your medical specialists. Your doctor can prescribe vaginal pessaries, tested as safe to use in pregnancy.

Passing urine often

You should know that this is normal during pregnancy, and caused by pregnancy hormones and the increasing compression of your bladder. Occasionally, there may be a urine infection. Mention it to your midwife.

Stress incontinence

The bladder leaks a little urine. This happens because the pelvic floor muscles are put under stress when you cough, sneeze or run. It happens especially in later pregnancy. Pelvic floor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles. If necessary wear a pad to keep you comfortable. Continue to do your exercises after the birth.

Cystitis

A urine infection that causes a burning sensation on passing urine, and the feeling of needing to pass urine all the time. If persistent your doctor can treat this. The thing that may help is drinking lots of water to flush out the infection.

Varicose veins

So many pregnant women complain about pain and heaviness sensations in legs during pregnancy. Swollen veins can appear usually in the legs but sometimes in the vulva (vaginal opening), too. They may cause aching and sometimes itching. Support tights or stockings can help you. But also you should remember some things: don't stand for long periods, and rest with your legs up when you can. Always tell your midwife or doctor if you notice any hot, red or painful areas in your legs.

Piles or haemorrhoids

These are varicose veins of the back passage, or anus. They are sometimes painful or itchy, and they can be made worse by constipation. Your doctor can treat them.

Backache

Flat shoes or shoes with a low heel will help. Don't forget to sit and stand with your back straight, and shoulders dropped. Be careful about lifting heavy weights - always bend at the knees to do so. There are some specific exercises that can help - ask your midwife, obstetric physiotherapist or antenatal teacher.

Swelling of ankles, fingers, face and hands

Or oedema, happens because the body holds more fluid in pregnancy. A certain amount of oedema is normal in later pregnancy, but more severe cases can indicate pre-eclampsia, if present with other signs.

Sometimes fluid collects in the wrists and produces a painful or tingling sensation in the fingers. This is called 'carpal tunnel syndrom'. Raise your hands above your head for several minutes and it may help to drain the fluid away. If it bothers you constantly, speak to your midwife or GP. They can refer you to an obstetric physiotherapist who may give you light weight splints to wear on your wrists. The condition usually goes away after birth.

Don't keep your worries to yourself.

Most pregnancy problems aren't serious for you or your baby's health (although they may not seem so at the time). Your midwife or doctor will give you advice and reassurance about how to deal with most of the less serious discomforts of pregnancy. If you need to talk to a midwife, call the antenatal clinic at the hospital where you plan to give birth.