All pregnant women will agree that the first few months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least. You may experience morning sickness, swelling in the legs and ankles, abdominal pains and cramps, heartburn, constipation, fatigue, bladder problems, and a myriad of problems in between. The goal of this article is to help you deal with these issues and feel better.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is probably the most common of the pregnancy symptoms. Don't be fooled; morning sickness nausea will come at any time of the day, not just in the morning. To help prevent nausea in the morning, wake up slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or dry cereal before getting out of bed. Avoid warm places; heat can increase nauseas feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening windows, or turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the microwave will emit fewer odors than cooking in the oven or stovetop. Eat something salty before meals, avoid greasy or spicy foods, and try not to drink fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals. Try taking your prenatals later in the day, and ask your doctor about vitamin B6 and ginger supplements. Sipping on fizzy water with lemon in it, or non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can help calm nausea.
Abdominal Pain or Cramps
There are many changes going on in your body. A lot of stress is being put on your abdominal muscles, which can cause sharp pains and cramps. To relieve these pains, try using a warm heating pad. To prevent these pains, try strengthening your abdominal muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out which kinds of exercises are best for you.
Swelling
Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some swelling. Wearing support hose can help to control your weight gain in your legs and ankles. Avoid standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for pregnant women. Avoid diuretics, as these will lead to increased swelling. Stay off your feet as much as possible, and elevate your legs when sitting. Lying down is even better than sitting.
Constipation
To combat constipation, you should exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat lots of fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables, and whole grain cereals and breads.
Fatigue
Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to aches and pains or vivid dreams, or simply from too much stress. The most effective method for dealing with fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take several naps during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency is a leading cause of fatigue, so be sure to get enough. Although it may seem counter-productive, fatigue can often be relieved by exercising. Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you feeling energized.
Heartburn
Many of the remedies associated with nausea will also help you deal with heartburn. In addition, chew fennel or papaya enzymes, and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Bladder Problems
Bladder problems can be among the most bothersome of pregnancy related issues. First and foremost, drink plenty of water. Avoid junk food, refined starches, coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high in acidic content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be sure to empty your bladder and wash with water after intercourse. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Try to include cabbage, leeks, and garlic in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry juice every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.
Some women get more problems than others, but they generally get a little easier during the second trimester. In general, just make sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep an optimistic mindset.
About the author:
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
Learn About The Latest
Trends In Cosmetics Now
by: Bridget Allen
The days of bright blue eye shadow and slathered on blush are gone with
the wind! If you are in desperate need of a make up freshen up, consider
these hot trends in cosmetics. These latest colors, tips, and techniques
are just what anyone needs to update a look or make the change into a new
season. Remember that your cosmetics do have an expiration date, so keep
this in mind when shopping for new make up. With each season, carefully
look through your make up kit and discard any items that are outdated.
This is critical, especially with eye make up that can expire and
potentially cause painful infections. Also, remember not to share your
make up with anyone else to prevent spread of germs and infection.
Today’s latest trends in cosmetics reflect the fashion trends—shimmer
and shine! From super glossy lip gloss to candy like eye make up with
glitter to make your eyes truly pop. This trend only applies to eyes,
lips, and nails, however, since cream and matte finishes is hot for
foundations, powders, and blush. In addition to shimmer and shine, the
color of eye and lip make up is quite subtle. Gone are the vibrant colors
and eye popping shades of eye shadow. Instead, pale browns, ivories,
grays, tans, and other natural colors are all the rage. Lip shades are
also a bit more subdued, with a nude lip or a sheer pink gloss being
incredibly hot.
Lipstick is out today, with lip gloss taking over the first place in
purses all over the country. These lip glosses are made in every color
under the sun and many mimic the appearance of lipstick with a much
smoother and glossier look. For individuals looking to care for their lips
and enjoy that terrific nude lip look, consider using a simple hydrating
stick. The all natural brand, Bert’s Bees, produces a phenomenal product
that can be applied under a gloss or used by itself.
The days of pressed powder may be numbered; as today’s hot products
include cream powders that go on thick but dries sheer and ultra light.
This option is great for individuals who would like a bit more coverage
than pressed powder offers, but do not want to deal with the mess and
hassle of using foundation. Another popular trend along this line is the
cream blush, which also goes on like a cream but dries a powder. Also,
cream blushes prevent that unnatural coloring that appears on many women’s
cheeks.
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