Common concerns

Body changes later in pregnancy

Itchy skin
As your pregnancy progresses, changes in hormones and the stretching of skin around your mid section can make your skin itch.

Tips for relief

• Avoid hot showers that can dry your skin.
• Put on moisturizer after you bathe.
• Use gentle soaps, which don't remove as much natural oils.

Varicose veins
As the amount of blood in your body increases, the valves in your blood vessels that push blood start to go soft, causing the blood to pool and form painful bulges. Although varicose veins are most often found in the legs, they can also occur in the vaginal area.

Tips for relief

• Don't stand in one position for too long.
• Don't cross your legs.
• Don't wear anything that cuts off leg circulation, like tight stockings.
• Do elevate your legs when you have a chance.
• Do wear supportive hose if necessary.

Hemorrhoids
Pressure from the growing baby presses on rectal veins and can cause hemorrhoids. You may also be constipated, which makes hemorrhoids worse.

Tips for relief

• To avoid hemorrhoids, you should eat plenty of fruits, raw or cooked, as well as leafy vegetables and whole grains.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• If you have hemorrhoids, avoid straining for a bowel movement.
• Talk to your caregiver first before taking laxatives.

Leg cramps
As your blood circulation slows, you may notice you get more cramps in your legs, especially at night.

Tips for relief

• Try stretching your calf muscles in your legs before you go to bed.
• A warm compress on your legs may help.

Swelling
Your ankles, fingers, and face may swell up some during pregnancy.

Tips for relief

• At the end of the day, or whenever you can, put your feet up and rest. If you notice extreme or sudden swelling, contact your physician right away.

Backaches
As pregnancy progresses, your back must support not only you but the growing baby. The natural curve of your spine is increased, putting increased pressure on your back.

Tips for relief

• Stand up straight to relieve some pressure on your back.
• Learn proper posture.
• Sleep on your side with in a running position.
• Hot compresses and massage may help.
• Wear low-healed shoes.

Constipation
As your baby grows, the weight presses down on your intestines, slowing down your digestion. But you can help move things along by getting enough exercise and eating whole grains, fruits and vegetables and drinking enough liquids. (Water is best!)

Heartburn
As your baby grows, the uterus pushes up on your stomach and causes heartburn. The sensation is often worse right after meals, or before bedtime.

Tips for relief

• Avoid greasy fried foods.
• Eat chipped ice, or take small sips of milk.
• Eat six to eight small meals.
• Don't take an antacid unless your health care provider tells you to.

Headaches
Changing hormones and an increased supply of blood can lead to headaches in some women during pregnancy. Stress can also cause headaches. Talk to your health care provider before taking any medication.

Tips for relief

• Try going outside for fresh air
• Rub your temples and have someone massage your neck and shoulders.

Vaginal discharge
During pregnancy, you will notice more of a vaginal discharge, which is nature's way of cleaning bacteria from the vagina. If you have vaginal itching, and a whitish discharge, you may have a yeast infection, which is more common during pregnancy. Call your health care provider before using any medication.

Tips for relief

• Wear a light pad and cotton underwear.

Continue: Pregnancy and your emotions

Maternity Services home page

Last revised: December 8, 2004 (jj)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.