What minor problems can happen during pregnancy?

During pregnancy it is normal to experience one or more 'side effects', but don't worry, they are usually mild and relatively short-lived. Plus, once your baby arrives it will all be worthwhile.

Here are a few pointers if you do experience any of the common problems:

Backache

During pregnancy, your ligaments stretch and soften in preparation for labor. This means that there is extra strain on the joints of your back and hips, sometimes causing pain and discomfort.

Massage can be helpful in relieving backache, as can some back-strengthening exercises (ask your midwife to show you). Avoid wearing high-heels, make sure that your mattress is firm, and be very careful when lifting. Try to improve your posture by checking that your neck and back are in roughly a straight line, and sit with your back straight and well supported. In the later stages of pregnancy, get as much rest as possible to take the strain off your back.

Constipation

It may become difficult to pass stools during the early stages of pregnancy because the hormonal changes occurring in your body affect your intestines. Try eating foods with plenty of fiber in them, such as whole wheat bread and pasta, fruit, vegetables, and beans and lentils. Also, drink plenty of water.

Cramps

Sudden, sharp pain in your calf muscles or feet is common in pregnancy, usually at night-time. Getting some gentle exercise will help to improve your circulation, and may help to stop the cramping happening. If it does occur, rub the area firmly and flex your foot upwards. This should help to relieve the pain.

Faintness/dizziness

It is common to feel faint when you are pregnant. Often, not enough blood gets to your brain because your uterus puts such a great demand on your blood supply. Try not to stand for long periods of time because the blood will go to your legs and feet. If it happens while you are standing up, try to find a chair quickly and sit down. If you still feel faint, lie down on your side. Don't get up from sitting too quickly, and try to keep cool.

Heartburn

This burning sensation in your chest is caused by stomach acid flowing back up into your esophagus. It can often be brought on by lying flat, so it can become difficult to sleep. There are a few things you can do to try and relieve it, such as sleeping propped up on plenty of pillows, drinking a glass of milk, and not eating or drinking for a couple of hours before bedtime. If the heartburn is really bad , you can take antacid tablets - but check with your pharmacist first to make sure that they are safe to take during pregnancy.

Morning sickness

Nausea and morning sickness can be one of the most trying symptoms of pregnancy. It often comes on during the early stages of pregnancy, probably due to hormonal changes, and will usually start to subside around the twelfth to fourteenth week. To relieve the nausea and sickness:

• drink plenty of fluids,
• eat small amounts often,
• get lots of rest,
• try eating a cookie or dry toast shortly before you get up in the morning,
• keep away from the smells that make you feel poorly,
• try ginger cookies or tea, and
• wear comfortable clothes.

If the vomiting is constant and you cannot keep anything down, contact your doctor right away.

Piles

Piles (or hemorrhoids) are swollen veins around your back passage. They can sometimes bleed a little, feel itchy or sore, and can make passing stools very uncomfortable. They usually disappear after you give birth. To relieve the discomfort you should eat high-fiber foods such as whole wheat bread, fruit and vegetables, and drink plenty of water to help keep your stools regular and soft. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about suitable ointments.

Swollen ankles, feet and fingers

This can happen during pregnancy because your body holds more water than usual, and by the end of the day, this water tends to gather in the lower parts of your body. Rest and put your feet up when you can, ideally with your feet higher than your heart for one hour every day. Wear comfortable shoes, and avoid standing up for long periods.

Tiredness

It is common to feel very tired during the first months of pregnancy, and at the end of your pregnancy. The only treatment is to rest as much as possible, and ask friends, family and colleagues to help out whenever possible.

The symptoms you should never ignore during pregnancy are:

• not feeling 'right',
• frequent fainting,
• fever,
• severe pain in your abdomen,
• swelling in your face, hands and eyes,
• visual disturbances,
• severe headache,
• sudden, noticable, unexplained weight gain,
• vaginal bleeding,
• severe vomiting,
• painful urination,
• sudden increase in thirst with little or no urination, ,
• no movement from the baby for more than 24 hours, after week 22,
• severe itching all over, or
• a blow to, or fall on your stomach.