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In addition to the normal physical changes, it is common to experience increased joint and muscle pain during pregnancy. Increased weight puts pressure on the knees and may exacerbate knee pain. You may also notice that your joints seem looser and that you feel like you waddle when you walk.

What time of pregnancy do you get joint pain?

Here are few crucial reasons for the aches and remedies to help ease your gestational days. – ThinkStock Photos By Dr Aruna Kalra Pregnancy brings along many changes to a new mother’s body, including the constant joint pains. While some mothers are prone to develop arthritis after delivery of their baby, not all joint pains may lead to the same condition.

1. These aches may be due to various factors of pregnancy like weight gain, change in posture and hormonal changes.
2. Joint pain, stiff sensation, and aches in hips, elbows, knees, fingers and ankles are common in pregnant women.
3. The initial aches are a sign that your body is preparing for childbirth.
4. Women who are well nourished and workout regularly with orderly prenatal care are less likely to experience any complications during pregnancy.

Here are few crucial reasons for the aches and remedies to help ease your gestational days: ThinkStock Photos Weight Gain The pressure on your knees increases as the body starts gaining weight, further leading to knee aches. Ankles, knees and hips feel the added weight as the body grows during pregnancy. In order to ease the joint pains in this condition, hot and cold therapy is very helpful.

1. You can either take a nice hot shower or place hot water bag/electric heating pads against your aching joints.
2. Also wrapping an ice pack in a towel and placing it over your joints will do wonders.
3. Relaxin Hormone The ovaries and placenta of pregnant ladies produces an important hormone called Relaxin.

This hormone helps prepare your pelvic muscles and tendons for pregnancy by stretching and relaxing them. However, these contractions may loosen the ligaments around the joints adding to the additional strain and further causing hip pain and sometimes lower back pain as well. ThinkStock Photos Carpal Tunnel Syndrome A syndrome when excessive fluid gain in your body due to pregnancy applies added pressure on your wrist, leading to pain and numbness in wrist and hand. A few home remedies suggested are application of an ice pack, resting your hands or using a wrist splint if the situation demands.

• Many patients find that moving or shaking and exercising their hands helps relieve the pain.
• Hypothyroidism The thyroid diseases – hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism – are relatively common in pregnancy.
• However, hypothyroidism is a condition when your thyroid glands do not produce enough thyroid hormone which further lead to weight gain.

The added gain in weight applies excessive pressure and pain in the joints. The thyroid needs to be closely monitored by your doctor along with timely medication. Sciatica Some women undergo sciatica or hip pain during pregnancy because their expanded uterus due to the growing baby presses down on their sciatic nerve, ThinkStock Photos Coccyx Joint As the baby grows some women also experience a gradually increasing pain near the end of the spine. This is when the pressure of the developing and expanding foetus is applied towards your tailbone, causing acute pain. The pain is usually worsened with constipation, and during the terminal weeks when your abdomen region is at its peak.

Try a prescribed laxative for the constipation to ease the pain. Other remedies include sleeping on your side or supporting your belly with pillows to take some weight off. Also a maternity support belt may help alleviate back and abdominal soreness while standing as well. Keeping your body healthy with workout and a well-balanced diet can help reduce the degree of these pains during pregnancy.

If ever you feel the basic remedies are not helping, the next best thing to do is consult your doctor to prescribe you medications or medical tests. Agencies Dr Aruna Kalra, gynaecologist and obstetrics surgeon, CK Birla Hospital (Gurugram) (The author is a gynaecologist and obstetrics surgeon, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)

When should I be worried about body aches during pregnancy?

How to Ease Body Aches During Pregnancy – The best way to prevent body aches in pregnancy is by staying active and keeping your pregnancy weight gain in check. (It’s recommended that women of normal BMI gain between 25 and 35 pounds in total.) But even if you’re already suffering from discomfort, moderate exercise like walking has been shown to help reduce pregnancy back pain, Bruney says.

You can also take acetaminophen (Tylenol), or pick up a belly support belt. According to Bruney, “in patients with lower back pain and pelvic pain, providing better support to their abdominal wall and muscles can be helpful in relieving some of their symptoms.” Although body aches in pregnancy are considered normal, it’s still a good idea to chat with your doctor or midwife about them at your next appointment, Gaither suggests.

(You’re always better safe than sorry, especially when pregnancy is concerned.) You’ll want to call your doctor right away if the aches are really severe, restrict your movement or include swelling or redness on your legs, Bruney adds, since those can be signs of a possible blood clot.

1. Also know this: Pregnancy aches and pains usually affect a particular region in the body instead of all over, and they’re not typically associated with other symptoms (like fever, chills or cough)—so if you have any of those, you might be suffering from a cold or flu.
2. In that case, give your primary care doctor a call.

Updated February 2020 Expert bios: Talitha Bruney, MD, is an ob-gyn and the medical director of the Comprehensive Family Care Center in the department of obstetrics and gynecology and women’s health at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. Kecia Gaither, MD, MPH, FACOG, is a double board-certified OB-GYN and maternal fetal medicine specialist in New York City with more than 20 years of experience.

She serves as the director of perinatal services for NYC Health+Hospitals/Lincoln, Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Is it normal to have sore muscles and joints in early pregnancy?

Muscle Aches – Pregnancy can be tough, especially early on as your body is rapidly adjusting to its new state. If you’re experiencing muscle aches, Hoskins says that this may be more a sensation of fatigue. It could also be due to the pregnancy hormone, progesterone, causing your muscles to feel “relaxed and flaccid.” If ever your muscle aches are accompanied by fever, again, seek medical care.

Does pregnancy joint pain go away?

Pregnancy affects the body in different ways that may result in joint pain after the baby is born. For example, fluid retention may cause carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes pain in the finger joints, while carrying a baby can put pressure on the knees.

The exact cause of the pain could be due to hormonal changes and inflammation in the joints. Postpartum joint pain symptoms may initially occur during pregnancy or labor and last for several weeks to months after birth. This article discusses where postpartum joint pain might occur, possible causes, and how to treat it.

Some people may experience joint pain during pregnancy that worsens and continues into postpartum. Postpartum pain could be a result of hormonal changes and the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth. For example, hip pain is common during pregnancy and can last for weeks or months after pregnancy.

Why are my hands and fingers so stiff during pregnancy?

During pregnancy hormones cause you to retain fluid, they also soften the ligament that forms the roof of the tunnel. When this happens, the nerve running through the tunnel may become squashed which can cause symptoms like pins and needles, numbness and stiff painful hands.

Can pregnancy cause arthritis?

Can pregnancy cause arthritis? – Pregnancy can cause joint aches and pains. However, these are generally related to the loosening of the joints to prepare for delivery as well as changes in gait, posture, and weight gain. In rare cases, a person may show signs of a condition for the first time during pregnancy, like rheumatoid arthritis.

Why do my thighs hurt while pregnant?

However, during pregnancy, too much relaxin can be released into the system. When this happens, the excess of relaxin causes the ligaments responsible for stabilizing the pelvis to loosen up too much. This can cause pain in the inner thigh and groin area.

Why my whole body is paining during pregnancy?

Body changes and discomforts As your expands, you may feel aches and pains in the back, abdomen, groin area, and thighs. Many women also have backaches and aching near the pelvic bone due the pressure of the baby’s head, increased weight, and loosening joints. Some pregnant women complain of pain that runs from the lower back, down the back of one leg, to the knee or foot.

Lie down. Rest. Apply heat.

Call the doctor if pain does not get better. A woman’s breasts increase in size and fullness during pregnancy. As the due date approaches, changes will cause your breasts to get even bigger to prepare for breastfeeding. Your breasts may feel full, heavy, or tender.

Wear a maternity bra with good support. Put pads in bra to absorb leakage.

Tell your doctor if you feel a lump or have changes or discharge (that is not ) or skin changes. Many pregnant women complain of constipation. Signs of constipation include having hard, dry stools; fewer than three bowel movements per week; and painful bowel movements.

Drink eight to 10 glasses of water daily. Don’t drink caffeine. Eat fiber-rich foods, such as fresh or dried fruit, raw vegetables, and whole-grain cereals and breads. Try mild physical activity.

Tell your doctor if constipation does not go away. Many pregnant women complain of dizziness and lightheadedness throughout their pregnancies. Fainting is rare but does happen even in some healthy pregnant women. There are many reasons for these symptoms.

Stand up slowly. Avoid standing for too long. Don’t skip meals. Lie on your left side. Wear loose clothing.

Call your doctor if you feel faint and have bleeding or abdominal pain. During your pregnancy, you might feel tired even after you’ve had a lot of sleep. Many women find they’re exhausted in the first trimester. Don’t worry, this is normal! This is your body’s way of telling you that you need more rest.

1. In the second trimester, tiredness is usually replaced with a feeling of well being and energy.
2. But in the third trimester, exhaustion often sets in again.
3. As you get larger, sleeping may become more difficult.
4. The baby’s movements, bathroom runs, and an increase in the body’s metabolism might interrupt or disturb your sleep.

Leg cramping can also interfere with a good night’s sleep. What might help:

Lie on your left side. Use pillows for support, such as behind your back, tucked between your knees, and under your tummy. Practice good sleep habits, such as going to bed and getting up at the same time each day and using your bed only for sleep and sex. Go to bed a little earlier. Nap if you are not able to get enough sleep at night. Drink needed fluids earlier in the day, so you can drink less in the hours before bed.

and the pressure of the growing cause indigestion and heartburn. Pregnancy hormones slow down the muscles of the digestive tract. So food tends to move more slowly and digestion is sluggish. This causes many pregnant women to feel bloated. Hormones also relax the valve that separates the from the stomach.

Eat several small meals instead of three large meals — eat slowly. Drink fluids between meals — not with meals. Don’t eat greasy and fried foods. Avoid citrus fruits or juices and spicy foods. Do not eat or drink within a few hours of bedtime. Do not lie down right after meals.

Call your doctor if symptoms don’t improve after trying these suggestions. Ask your doctor about using an antacid. (HEM-roidz) are swollen and bulging veins in the rectum. They can cause itching, pain, and bleeding. Up to 50 percent of pregnant women get hemorrhoids.

Drink lots of fluids. Eat fiber-rich foods, like whole grains, raw or cooked leafy green vegetables, and fruits. Try not to strain with bowel movements. Talk to your doctor about using products such as witch hazel to soothe hemorrhoids.

About 20 percent of pregnant women feel itchy during pregnancy. Usually women feel itchy in the abdomen. But red, itchy palms and soles of the feet are also common complaints. Pregnancy and stretching skin are probably to blame for most of your discomfort. Usually the itchy feeling goes away after delivery. What might help:

Use gentle soaps and moisturizing creams. Avoid hot showers and baths. Avoid itchy fabrics.

Call your doctor if symptoms don’t improve after a week of self-care. At different times during your pregnancy, you might have sudden muscle spasms in your legs or feet. They usually occur at night. This is due to a change in the way your body processes calcium. What might help:

Gently stretch muscles. Get mild exercise. For sudden cramps, flex your foot forward. Eat calcium-rich foods. Ask your doctor about calcium supplements.

In the first trimester hormone changes can cause nausea and vomiting. This is called “morning sickness,” although it can occur at any time of day. Morning sickness usually tapers off by the second trimester. What might help:

Eat several small meals instead of three large meals to keep your stomach from being empty. Don’t lie down after meals. Eat dry toast, saltines, or dry cereals before getting out of bed in the morning. Eat bland foods that are low in fat and easy to digest, such as cereal, rice, and bananas. Sip on water, weak tea, or clear soft drinks. Or eat ice chips. Avoid smells that upset your stomach.

Call your doctor if you have flu-like symptoms, which may signal a more serious condition. Call your doctor if you have severe, constant nausea and/or vomiting several times every day. Nosebleeds and nasal stuffiness are common during pregnancy. They are caused by the increased amount of blood in your body and acting on the tissues of your nose. What might help:

Blow your nose gently. Drink fluids and use a cool mist humidifier. To stop a nosebleed, squeeze your nose between your thumb and forefinger for a few minutes.

Call your doctor if nosebleeds are frequent and do not stop after a few minutes. Feelings of swelling, tingling, and numbness in fingers and hands, called carpal tunnel syndrome, can occur during pregnancy. These symptoms are due to swelling of tissues in the narrow passages in your wrists, and they should disappear after delivery. What might help:

Take frequent breaks to rest hands. Ask your doctor about fitting you for a splint to keep wrists straight.

Stretch marks are red, pink, or brown streaks on the skin. Most often they appear on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and breasts. These scars are caused by the stretching of the skin, and usually appear in the second half of pregnancy. Some women notice other skin changes during pregnancy.

1. For many women, the become darker and browner during pregnancy.
2. Many pregnant women also develop a dark line (called the linea nigra) on the skin that runs from the belly button down to the pubic hairline.
3. Patches of darker skin usually over the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip also are common.
4. Patches often match on both sides of the face.

These spots are called melasma or chloasma and are more common in darker-skinned women. What might help:

Be patient — stretch marks and other changes usually fade after delivery.

Many women develop mild swelling in the face, hands, or ankles at some point in their pregnancies. As the due date approaches, swelling often becomes more noticeable. What might help:

Drink eight to 10 glasses of fluids daily. Don’t drink caffeine or eat salty foods. Rest and elevate your feet. Ask your doctor about support hose.

Call your doctor if your hands or feet swell suddenly or you rapidly gain weight — it may be, Temporary bladder control problems are common in pregnancy. Your unborn baby pushes down on the,, and pelvic floor muscles. This pressure can lead to more frequent need to urinate, as well as leaking of urine when sneezing, coughing, or laughing. What might help:

Take frequent bathroom breaks. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Do to tone pelvic muscles.

Call your doctor if you experience burning along with frequency of urination — it may be an infection. During pregnancy, blood volume increases greatly. This can cause veins to enlarge. Plus, pressure on the large veins behind the causes the blood to slow in its return to the heart.

For these reasons, varicose veins in the legs and (hemorrhoids) are more common in pregnancy. Varicose veins look like swollen veins raised above the surface of the skin. They can be twisted or bulging and are dark purple or blue in color. They are found most often on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg.

What might help:

Avoid tight knee-highs. Sit with your legs and feet raised.

All material contained on these pages are free of copyright restrictions and maybe copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Citation of the source is appreciated. Page last updated: February 22, 2021 : Body changes and discomforts

Are body aches bad during pregnancy?

When to See a Doctor: Abnormal Pregnancy Aches and Pains – Many of the pregnancy body aches and pains you’ll experience are perfectly normal, but there are a few symptoms that could point to a more serious condition, For example, if you have upper abdominal pain or shoulder pain coupled with headaches, you may want to see your medical practitioner to make sure it’s not preeclampsia,

• Or, if you have severe abdominal or pelvic pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding in your first trimester, it could be the sign of an ectopic pregnancy,
• If you’re in doubt, consult your practitioner for further advice.
• Aches and pains may strike at some point during your pregnancy, perhaps more than once, but usually they’re perfectly normal, and will go away once your baby is born.

Pregnancy is the first step in your journey with your little one, which will come with ups and downs, but will be worth it in the end.

What do loose joints feel like in pregnancy?

Loose-feeling joints – Throughout your pregnancy, the pregnancy hormone relaxin has made your ligaments loosen up a little (it’s also responsible for your potential bouts of clumsiness this past trimester). Before you go into labor, you may notice that the joints all over your body feel a bit less tight and more relaxed.

Why do my joints hurt after pregnancy 4 months?

Postpartum Joint Pain – Hormonal changes can bring about inflammation in your joints, and while joint pain is very, very common (almost inevitable) during pregnancy, postpartum joint pain symptoms can continue this theme and last for long stretches of time. Your knees are particularly susceptible.

This is due to all that extra weight being carried around when pregnant, but could also be a sign of hyperthyroidism. If that knee pain simply isn’t going away, you should speak with your doctor. This joint pain (and associated inflammation) can be tackled with OTC (over-the-counter) anti-inflammatory medication and painkillers.

If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor about the safest pain relief tactics. You don’t want to be mixing painkillers with nursing; for a whole range of health reasons!

How do I deal with pregnancy pains and aches?

Here are some tips on what you can do for some of the common health problems you may face during your pregnancy, along with alternative therapies that may help. Abdominal Pain To relieve sharp pains or cramps from stretched abdominal muscles and ligaments, rest or take a warm bath or shower.

• Regular exercise will strengthen and tone your abdominal muscles.
• Take care to avoid exercises while lying on your back for more than a few minutes at a time after the first trimester, since this may decrease blood flow to your developing baby,
• Backache Keep your weight gain under control with proper diet and exercise.

Avoid taking pain relievers unless necessary; instead, use a heating pad on your back to relieve pain. Special exercises to strengthen abdominal muscles can also help reduce backache. Try a pregnancy girdle or elastic sling to support your abdomen, Wear shoes or shoe inserts designed for pregnant women, and avoid high heels.

• Don’t stand for long periods.
• Sit straight.
• Sleep on a firm mattress.
• Lying on your side with a pillow between your legs may provide some relief.
• Be careful when lifting heavy loads – especially children.
• Bend at the knees, keep your back as straight as possible, hold the object or child close to your body, and raise yourself slowly.

Try a chair massage : Sit on a straight chair, facing the back. Lean forward, over the back of the chair, with your head resting on your crossed arms. Have the massager use long strokes, working upward and outward from the lower back, avoiding pressure on the spine.

Breast Discomfort Wear a bra that gives enlarged breasts proper support. If your breasts leak, use nursing pads in your bra. Avoid stimulating your breasts. Breathlessness Some breathlessness is common and normal. Keep your weight gain within the recommended limits and maintain good posture, especially when you are sitting.

Sleep on your side – preferably your left side – not on your back. Constipation To keep stools soft and bowel movements regular, get plenty of dietary fiber from fresh fruit, vegetables, whole-grain cereals and breads, and dried fruit. Avoid using over-the-counter laxatives,

1. Fiber or stool softener agents may be helpful.
2. Try psyllium ( Plantago psyllium ), an herbal bulk-forming agent.
3. Drink lots of water and exercise regularly.
4. Contractions Mild, painless uterine contractions usually start sometime after the 20th week of pregnancy.
5. If they cause discomfort, try changing positions.

If contractions start coming at regular intervals, call your health care provider. Cystitis (Bladder Infection) If you develop bladder irritation, like persistent burning when urinating, contact your health provider. Bladder infections in pregnant women are more common and dangerous than in non-pregnant women.

• Many bladder infections are triggered by sexual intercourse.
• Remember to empty your bladder immediately after sex and watch for symptoms.
• Several glasses of unsweetened cranberry juice a day may prevent urinary tract infections,
• Dizziness and Faintness Slow down when you stand up or get out of bed.
• Dizziness when you stand up too quickly from sitting or lying down is called postural hypotension.

If you feel lightheaded, sit down immediately. If you’re in a crowd and start feeling dizzy, step away and get some fresh air; if possible, lie down on your left side or sit with your head between your knees, Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

1. Fatigue Get a full night’s sleep, and rest with your feet up for at least 15 minutes several times a day.
2. Headaches Make sure you get enough rest, eat regularly, and drink six or more glasses of water daily.
3. Avoid aspirin or other over-the-counter painkillers except for Tylenol,
4. Instead, try stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation.

Or try taking a hot bath with a cold pack on your forehead. Heartburn Avoid heavy meals and spicy, greasy, sugary, and acidic foods. Stick to a bland, high-fiber diet, drink lots of fluids, and exercise daily. Small, frequent meals may relieve some of the symptoms.

1. Don’t lie down right after a meal.
2. Raise the head of your bed 2 to 4 inches with a stable support such as wooden blocks.
3. Antacids can be helpful.
4. Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids may develop due to the increased blood in your body during pregnancy, along with the increased pressure to the blood vessels in your pelvis.

Hemorrhoids usually disappear after delivery. Eat a high-fiber diet to keep your stool soft, drink lots of water, and don’t strain during bowel movements, To relieve itching or pain, try a warm sitz bath, or apply an ice pack or a cloth soaked in witch hazel.

Kegel exercises, designed to strengthen the pelvic muscles, can improve circulation in the area. Getting off your feet may also help. Leg Pains and Cramps Wear support hose during the day, and elevate your feet when resting, if possible. Use a heating pad or gentle massage on the back of your thigh to ease sciatica,

When a leg cramp hits, straighten your leg and slowly flex your ankle and toes while massaging your calf, or soak your leg in hot water. You may be able to prevent night cramps by wearing socks to bed or by pressing your foot against the bed board. If painful cramps persist, ask your health care provider about calcium or magnesium supplements,

1. Morning Sickness You may feel nauseated at any time of the day, typically in the first trimester,
2. Try eating frequent, small meals rather than three full meals.
3. Eep your diet high in protein and complex carbohydrates, and low in sweets and fatty foods.
4. Drink plenty of fluids, and eat fresh fruits and vegetables, which are high in water content.

Talk to your health care provider about trying 25 mg of vitamin B6 with 12.5 mg of doxylamine up to twice daily. Antacids sometimes help, especially if heartburn is part of the problem. In general, try to minimize stress in your everyday activities. Mouth and Gum Discomfort Pregnancy can be demanding on your teeth, so make sure you get your regular dental checkup and cleaning.

1. Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day, and floss regularly.
2. Sugarless gum can be substituted for an after-meal cleaning if it isn’t feasible to brush your teeth,
3. Nasal Congestion or Nosebleeds Use a vaporizer to humidify your bedroom at night.
4. Lubricate each nostril with a dab of petroleum jelly during the day to prevent nosebleeds.

Avoid decongestant nasal sprays, which can constrict blood vessels. Numbness Avoid lying on your hands while sleeping. If your hands feel numb when you wake up, shake them over the side of the bed. Soaking the hand in warm water or using a heating pad twice daily may help ease numbness, or try wearing a wrist splint.

Skin Changes and Stretch Marks Rashes from hormone changes during pregnancy generally go away after the baby is born. To prevent freckles or darkened skin on your face, called a “pregnancy mask” or chloasma, wear a wide-brimmed hat and use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when outside. Lubricate dry skin around your abdomen with a moisturizing cream.

For heat rash, try to stay as cool as possible and use cornstarch powder under your breasts, on your thighs, or wherever your skin tends to chafe. Sleep Problems and Insomnia Pregnant women often experience sleepless nights and daytime fatigue, During the first trimester, frequent trips to the bathroom and morning sickness may disrupt sleep.

1. Later in pregnancy, vivid dreams and physical discomfort may prevent deep sleep.
2. After delivery, the new baby’s care or a mother’s postpartum depression may interrupt sleep.
3. Fatigue during the first trimester of a pregnancy is likely due to changing levels of hormones, such as progesterone,
4. Toward the end of pregnancy, some women find it difficult to sleep because they’re uncomfortable due to the size of a growing abdomen.

Some women are too excited, anxious, or worried about becoming mothers to sleep well. Sleep apnea ( snoring ), especially if it’s severe and causes your blood oxygen level to drop during sleep, is a risk to the fetus. Pregnant women who experience insomnia during pregnancy may find relief by taking afternoon naps, drinking warm milk, or taking a warm (not hot) bath before bedtime,

Exercise during the day may help, too. Expectant mothers may find it more comfortable to sleep on one side, with pillows supporting the head, abdomen, and topside knee. Don’t take sleeping pills or herbal sleeping remedies without talking with your health care provider first. Leg Swelling Monitor your weight gain throughout your pregnancy.

To control swelling in your legs and ankles, wear support hose and avoid standing for long periods. Wear shoes that fit well and give good support, or buy shoe inserts designed especially for pregnant women. Getting off your feet helps the most. Lying down is often more comfortable than sitting.

Taste Changes You may find some foods unappealing and develop a craving for others, especially sweets. Iron supplements may leave a bad taste in your mouth ; talk to your practitioner if this is a problem. Use mouthwash often. Chewing gum, mints, or hard candies can also chase away unpleasant tastes. Urination Problems Kegel exercises can help you control stress incontinence – losing a small amount of urine when you sneeze, cough, or laugh.

You can also use a sanitary pad. Leaning forward while urinating helps to empty your bladder completely. Vaginal Discharge or Itching A thin, mild-smelling discharge is normal in pregnancy. Use sanitary pads, if necessary. Don’t douche. Any red or brown discharge is a signal to call your doctor immediately.

1. Vaginal itching and soreness may indicate an infection, which requires treatment by your doctor.
2. Vaginal yeast infections can be common in pregnancy and may disappear without treatment after the baby is born.
3. Varicose Veins Pregnancy puts extra strain on the blood vessels in your legs.
4. Support stockings or pantyhose can help relieve the discomfort.

Exercise regularly. Raise your legs above hip level when sitting, if possible. Lie on your left side in bed, or put a pillow under your feet. Ask your doctor or a nutritionist about taking vitamin C supplements to strengthen blood vessels. Vision Changes If your eyes swell from fluid retention and hard contact lenses become uncomfortable, switch to soft lenses or glasses.

The most dangerous time to take any medication is during the first trimester, when the fetus is developing rapidly and is more vulnerable to injury. Always check with your health care provider before taking any over-the-counter or prescription drugs, including drugs that were prescribed before you became pregnant.Several diseases pose special hazards to pregnant women and an unborn child, such as rubella, chickenpox, “fifth disease” (erythema infectiosum), mumps, cytomegalovirus, chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, genital warts, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS. Call your doctor immediately if you think you have been exposed to any of these. If possible, get vaccinated against rubella, chickenpox, mumps and pertussis before pregnancy, unless you’ve had those diseases or their vaccines already. Ask your doctor about performing a blood test for chickenpox and rubella if you can’t remember if you’ve had these conditions as a child, and try to get the vaccines at least four weeks before pregnancy (or afterward) if you need them.Don’t smoke. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risks of vaginal bleeding, miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, low birth weight, and other problems. Second-hand smoke, car exhaust, and industrial fumes can also be hazardous to pregnant women. Avoid prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants as best you can.Avoid breathing in or touching chemical household cleaners, paints, and insecticides.Be careful walking and getting out of the shower or tub to prevent falls.Check with your doctor about safe exercises. Certain activities should not be undertaken during pregnancy.Most couples are able to have sexual intercourse until near the time of birth. Check with your doctor about the advisability of intercourse if you have a history of miscarriage or preterm birth, any infection or bleeding, if the placenta is in an abnormal position (known as placenta previa), or during the last trimester if you’re carrying multiple babies. Avoid sex after the amniotic sac has broken or fluids leak. If you develop pain or abdominal cramps that continue or worsen for more than an hour after having intercourse, call your doctor, because your cervix could be dilating.Avoid having unnecessary X-rays. If you must get an X-ray, be sure to tell the doctor or the technician that you are pregnant.Don’t get overheated, avoid exercising in hot and humid weather, and stay out of hot tubs, saunas, and whirlpool baths.If you develop a fever or infection, call your health care provider before treating yourself. Tylenol is generally safe to take during pregnancy.

What causes joints to loosen in pregnancy?

What causes back pain during pregnancy? – Throughout pregnancy, hormones affect a person’s muscles and joints. The hormones relaxin and progesterone relax muscles and loosen ligaments and joints, especially in the pelvic area. The extra weight and body changes in pregnancy along with these loosened joints and ligaments can cause discomfort and even lead to injury.

As your uterus grows and becomes heavier, your center of gravity changes. This can lead to problems with balance and the potential for falls. The weight of your baby and weakening of belly muscles pulls your lower spine forward, adding strain to back muscles. Many pregnant people respond by leaning back in an awkward posture.

This increases back strain and pain.

How early can you get preeclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia rarely happens before the 20th week of pregnancy. Although less common, the condition can also develop for the first time in the first 4 weeks after birth. Most people only experience mild symptoms, but it’s important to manage the condition in case severe symptoms or complications develop. Generally, the earlier pre-eclampsia develops, the more severe the condition will be.

What natural remedies for body aches while pregnant?

Updated January 23, 2019. Looking for natural relief from common pregnancy discomforts? There are lots of drug-free ways to treat some of the less pleasant aspects of pregnancy. Here are some natural remedies that are safe and effective, along with some to avoid.

Be sure to check in with your prenatal provider before you begin any new treatment. Note: Many herbs are not safe during pregnancy — and many that are presumed to be safe have not been thoroughly tested. In addition, herbal supplements aren’t subjected to the same FDA evaluation process as other medications, so the quantity and quality of products may be inconsistent.

If you’re considering a natural remedy that’s not on this list, err on the side of caution and avoid it until you can discuss with your provider. The Cause: Increased blood volume and a growing uterus put extra stress on your veins, which can lead to varicose veins — swollen blood vessels that bulge toward the surface of the skin.

Witch hazel can be applied topically to reduce inflammation and swelling and is safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re treating varicose veins on your vulva, saturate a maxi pad with witch hazel and wear it at night.Anthocyanins, the antioxidant in berries that give them their bright color, can improve blood vessel function and decrease blood pressure. Add blueberries or strawberries to salads, yogurt, and oatmeal, or toss a cup of frozen berries into your morning smoothie.Bilberry, a berry related to blueberries and cranberries, is also rich in anthocyanins and has been shown to reduce hemorrhoid symptoms. Take 120 to 240 mg twice daily of a 25 percent anthocyanin extract.Raw garlic and onions may enhance vein function while foods rich in vitamin E, such as sunflower seeds, almonds, wheat germ, and dark leafy greens, may improve circulation. If you opt for a vitamin E supplement, the recommended dosage for pregnant women is 22.5 IU daily. Worth noting: There is no advantage in taking a larger dose, and there can be significant risks to taking too much vitamin E.Horse chestnut seed extract strengthens blood vessels and may reduce pain and swelling related to poor blood flow. Take 300 mg twice a day of a tablet that contains 50 mg aescin per dose. Limited studies suggest that horse chestnut seed extract is safe for use in pregnancy, but let your provider know before you try it.Wear compression stockings for varicose veins in the legs or a compression groin band for vulvar varicosities.

A Word of Caution: Aloe vera is sometimes recommended for varicose veins. The topical form should be safe, but the oral form, which has been linked to uterine contractions, should not be used in pregnancy. The Cause: Increased levels of progesterone cause the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract to relax, which slows down the exit of food.

Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into almond butter, yogurt, smoothies, or breakfast cereal. Chia seeds also contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for fetal neurological development.Sprinkle oat bran or wheat bran in cereal or yogurt, or incorporate it into a smoothie.Magnesium is a natural laxative. Dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains are good sources.Some people report that papaya has a laxative effect. Be sure to not overdo it, because too much may cause stomach upset and diarrhea.

Other Remedies:

Exercise helps stimulate your bowels. If you have a low-risk pregnancy, incorporate moderate-intensity activities like brisk walking, yoga, and swimming into your routine.If your prenatal vitamins contain iron, talk to your provider about switching to an iron-free version.Talk to your provider about over-the-counter stool softeners or fiber supplements like psyllium, found in products like Metamucil.

A Word of Caution: Ground flaxseeds are an excellent source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. However, flaxseed appears to mimic estrogen in certain contexts, which may make it unsafe for use in pregnancy. Although more clinical studies are needed, avoid flaxseeds during pregnancy.

Take 1 to 3 teaspoons of honey every 3 hours to soothe coughing. You can also add honey and a few squeezes of lemon juice to hot water.Do salt water gargles every 2 hours to ease a sore throat.Try our sore throat tea.Chamomile can help with fever and aches and also aid in sleeping. Echinacea appears to stimulate the immune system, so it’s best to drink echinacea tea when you first start to feel sick. Do not use echinacea for prolonged periods. In large quantities, chamomile and echinacea tea are both thought to provoke contractions, but they’re safe in small quantities, such as a cup of tea a few times a week.Apply Vicks VapoRub to your chest, back, and the outside of your throat before bed to ease nasal congestion and coughing.Marshmallow tea coats the throat. Marshmallow leaf may also contain chemicals that reduce coughing.

A Word of Caution: Avoid Airborne, Emergen-C, and other dietary supplements used to prevent colds or reduce symptoms. If you’re already taking a prenatal vitamin, these supplements, which contain large quantities of vitamin C, zinc, and more, may put you over the recommended daily dosage of vitamins and minerals.

Red raspberry leaf, Thought to tone the muscles of your uterus, providers sometimes recommend drinking red raspberry leaf tea to stimulate labor or to reduce the length of labor. In the first 39 weeks of pregnancy, it can cause preterm labor and miscarriage. Black cohosh and blue cohosh. Similarly, these herbs cause uterine contractions and cause preterm labor. Blue cohosh is also associated with birth defects. Avoid these herbs throughout your pregnancy. Licorice. Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a chemical that increases the risk of preterm delivery. Goldenseal. Sometimes used to treat colds and vaginal infections, goldenseal is contraindicated in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Berberine, a chemical found in goldenseal, can increase levels of bilirubin in newborns, causing jaundice or kernicterus, a serious neurological condition. Sage. Although it’s fine to consume most fresh or dried culinary herbs during pregnancy, sage is an exception, as it’s been linked to miscarriage. Minimize how much you cook with sage and don’t drink sage tea. Sage may also reduce your milk supply, so avoid consuming sage while breastfeeding.

April Blake April works to empower her patients through education, emphasizing preventive medicine and the innate healing potential of the human body. She is proficient in botanical, homeopathic, nutritional and physical medicine, and treats a wide variety of conditions including endocrine imbalances, immune system disorders and stress, always focusing on the root cause of the disease.

What helps leg and knee pain during pregnancy?

Knee Pain and Pregnancy: A Guide for the Expectant Mother If you’re expecting a baby, you also deal with changes to your own body. Women often experience aches and pains during pregnancy. Many women also have weight gain, gait changes, and even differences with how they sit or rest.

• All of these changes can affect your knees.
• Nee pain is unfortunately common during pregnancy, but you can do some things to help relieve it or at least make it less severe.
• If you’re concerned about the impact pregnancy might have on your knees, follow this guide as you navigate the next few months.

Try to Make Exercise a Priority Some women can experience a decrease in physical activity during pregnancy. Some might feel sick during the first trimester, which affects their strength and their willingness to work out. Others might worry that working out too much might hurt the baby.

Other experience too much discomfort to keep with their typical exercise routine. However, sedentary living is a contributor to knee pain during pregnancy. When the joint is not in use, it loses some strength and stability. Then when you do need to walk around, you experience greater pain. The reduced activity also contributes to greater weight gain in pregnancy, which drastically increases the pressure on the knees within a short period of time.

If you can’t stick with a normal workout, make a step goal to walk a certain distance each day. Try safe, low impact exercises like swimming or riding a stationary bike. Swimming is especially good for pregnancy knee pain because the water takes the weight off your joints, allowing you to exercise without stressing your knees.

• You might also try doing some stabilizing exercises like yoga and light weight lifting.
• Simple exercises like squats and lunges can strengthen your knees as long as you do them consistently.
• Remember to talk to your OBGYN about exercises that are safe for your current health.
• Invest in Good Footwear During pregnancy, your body produces a hormone called relaxin, which helps your ligaments to soften.

This is important for increasing the flexibility of your joints and bones in the pelvic area during birth, but the hormone affects all the joints in your body, including your knees, ankles, and feet. As a result, you should not go through pregnancy wearing flat shoes or flip-flops.

Also, refrain from wearing high heels which alter your center of gravity and place a lot of strain on your knees and ankles. Instead, wear supportive shoes that help your feet to align well with your knees and hips. You might find you need to purchase new shoes during pregnancy because the relaxin causes the bones in your feet to spread, and for the feet to lengthen due to more relaxed ligaments.

Some women experience swelling which can also make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Do the best you can to find supportive shoes. Rest in the Right Position A simple way to relieve knee pain in pregnancy is to take the load off your knees by resting. If you are lying on your side, give your knees some support by placing a pillow in between your legs.

1. If you are sitting down, try to elevate your legs on a table or ottoman.
2. Sitting with your knees bent for a long period of time can cause some irritation and restrict blood flow.
3. Consider Some Extra Support Finally, you might see a knee specialist for a brace.
4. Even with activity and healthy eating habits, weight gain — combined with gait changes and relaxed ligaments — can mean aches in the knees.

If you can’t walk without pain, your knee could use the extra support of a brace. For more information, contact us at Noyes Knee Institute. : Knee Pain and Pregnancy: A Guide for the Expectant Mother