Pregnancy is a precious moment in the life of every woman on this earth. Medically, successful fusion of male and female gametes as an end of the sexual intercourse constitutes pregnancy that is basically divided into three semesters of total nine months of duration. Since the entire period of pregnancy is anxiety loaded for a first time mother, it is always favorable to have firsthand knowledge about the early pregnancy symptoms to cope up with the stress and many more associated symptoms.
Let us look at most common pregnancy symptoms
Morning sickness
This can occur at any time of the day during first trimester.
To prevent this:
- One must eat frequently in small meals and must eat dry cookies before she gets out in the morning
- She must drink the peppermint tea during the daytime, in between the two meals
- Must try to avoid foods those are spicy and fatty in nature
- One must try to keep her space well aired at home and at work
- She must try to avoid long fasting periods, must eat frequently
- Get out of bed slowly in the morning
Constipation
This occurs due to the digestion of food slower pace because of the ill effects of progesterone.
Advice:
- Drink more water
- Eat more fiber
- Do not take laxatives
Fatigue
This is caused because of the sedative effects of progesterone. The body will inform you how much sleep you need. You should learn to listen to solve such problems.
Frequent urination
This is the result of increased kidney function to get rid of the body of waste products and toxins.
Advice:
- Avoid regular hot and ice teas
- Drink regular herbal teas
- Incorporate water to replace what you lose.
Heartburn
This is caused by progesterone’s relaxation of the smooth muscle at the entrance of the stomach. This allows backflow of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus. The esophagus reacts to the stomach acid with a burning sensation.
Advice:
- Antacids may relieve this
Breast changes
These changes in early pregnancy are the result of vessel engorgement. Vessels in the breast may become engorged due to smooth muscle relaxation. The smooth vessels in the vein relax which causes the valves located in the veins to work less efficiently. This results in the vessels getting engorged with blood resulting in breast enlargement.
Advice:
- Wearing a bra while sleeping is beneficial
Faintness dizziness
It is caused by a decrease of blood flow to your brain.
Advice:
- Change your body position slowly
- Avoid standing for long periods of time
Mood swings and apprehension
This is due to effect of pregnancy hormones.
Advice:
- Meditate and relax
- Take deep slow breaths
Headaches
Caused by tension, these may be avoided by:
- Eat frequent small meals
- Drinking plenty of fluids
Cramps
Mild menstrual like cramps may occur. Consult your doctor.
Skin changes
These include acne, dryness, pigmentation changes, spider veins and blotchy skin
Advice:
- Changing to natural cosmetics may help.
Hair changes
Hair becomes thick and grows faster due to hormone changes.
Nail changes
Nails also grow faster during pregnancy. Splitting and tearing may also occur.
Advice:
- Keep nails short
- Use hand creams liberally
Other symptoms may include changes in vision, increased vaginal discharge and sleep disturbances. Thus it is worthwhile to have a safe pregnancy with full information on the early pregnancy symptoms.
