Chris Taylor, MD Harrison Arkansas

Coping With Common Discomforts

Constipation

  • Increase fluids and fiber in diet
  • Increase exercise
  • If no results, the over-the-counter stool softener Colace can be taken (100 mg. twice a day)
  • If no improvement, call your care provider

Fatigue

  • Very common during first and third trimesters
  • Rest as much as possible
  • May be caused by anemia (iron levels will be checked periodically during pregnancy)

Breast Enlargement

  • Most noticeable in the first trimester due to growing milk producing cells
  • Wear comfortable, supportive bra, preferably without underwires
  • If skin on breasts or around nipples becomes dry, use lanolin (as much as needed)

Back Aches

  • Very common, especially during third trimester
  • Maternity support belts very helpful
  • Exercises, such as pelvic tilts (ask care provider for instructions, if needed)
  • Warm moist heat (Thermacare® wraps or a heated rice sock works great)
  • Tylenol

“Round Ligament Pain” (a sharp, stabbing pain to the left or right of the uterus)

  • Very common and NOT harmful
  • Caused by stretching of the ligaments that support the growing uterus
  • Warm baths, warm moist heat
  • Proper body mechanics (ask care provider for tips)
  • Tylenol

Headaches

  • Very common, particularly during the first 14-15 weeks of pregnancy
  • Caused by increased progesterone
  • Tylenol
  • Rest
  • IMPORTANT: If headaches are persistent, notify care provider!

Morning Sickness

  • Very common, usually resolves by 14-15 weeks
  • Caused by increased pregnancy hormones
  • Small frequent meals, acupressure, avoidance of triggers (ask about our brochure and tips)
  • Prescription medication, if needed
  • IMPORTANT: Notify care giver if unable to keep liquids down for 24 hours!

Mood Swings

  • Can occur on and off throughout the course of pregnancy
    IMPORTANT: Occasionally mood swings can progress to depression; if your mood begins to interfere with daily activities, such as self care, family, or job responsibilities, please notify your care provider!
  • Depression is treatable during pregnancy. If you are depressed, this issue should be addressed before giving birth!

Heartburn

  • Eat small frequent meals
  • Stop eating two hours before bedtime
  • Elevate the head of your bed
  • Do not eat fried or spicy foods
  • TUMS, which is also a source of calcium
  • Maalox
  • Mylanta
  • Pepcid (over-the-counter)
  • Zantac (over-the-counter)
  • Prescription medications