Pregnancy
Congratulations! You are beginning a life-long journey unlike any you have had before! Even when a pregnancy is planned and truly desired, normal fears and conflicting emotions sometimes infringe on the joy of knowing your new baby is indeed growing inside you: Is everything going to be all right with my baby? Are we really ready to be parents? What are pregnancy and childbirth going to be like? These anxieties are normal for all first-time moms and dads.
Because every pregnancy is unique, turning to parents or friends for answers based on their experiences may not provide you with the most accurate information, however well-intended it is. When you do not have all the necessary information, anxiety can be created or aggravated. The best solution for new parents-to-be is to obtain as much quality information as possible without inundating yourselves to the point where you become overwhelmed.
The most important first step is to see your health care provider early. Consistent prenatal care is important for you and your baby.
CARE FOR EARLY PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS
The following information is not to be used as a substitute for your chosen health care provider. Medically supervised care is a necessity during your pregnancy.
Now that you are pregnant you may be experiencing some minor problems or discomforts that are caused by the changing hormones or your body's adaptation to pregnancy. We have some general health guidelines that may help to minimize your discomfort. If at any time these symptoms become severe, you need to seek help from a physician or emergency room.
Tiredness, Fatigue
Try to get as much sleep as you can by taking naps and going to bed early. Mild exercise in the fresh air can restore energy when tired. Avoid foods with caffeine or sugar in them because they will give you a sudden burst of energy and then a "crash" making you feel even more tired.
Morning Sickness
Some women experience nausea early in the morning when they first awaken. Others may have it off and on all day. However, for most women this decreases after the first three months.
If your nausea is bad when you first awaken, try eating a high protein snack before bed, such as cheese, milk, yogurt, peanut butter on apple slices or celery, soy products, chicken or turkey. You can also try eating crackers before you get up in the morning and rise slowly without any sudden movement.
If your nausea is during the day, it is important not to allow yourself to get too hungry--eat six small meals instead of two or three large meals. Never go long periods without food. Avoid strong tasting or smelling foods,fried or greasy foods or anything that you know makes you sick. Do not use alcohol or tobacco and avoid smoke-filled environments where the second-hand smoke may make you sick.
If these measures don't work to ease the nausea, check with your healthcare provider.
Constipation
Many women experience constipation during early and late pregnancy. This is caused by the hormones of pregnancy as well as the pressure against the intestine caused by the growing uterus. It is important to eat fresh fruits and raw vegetables as well as whole grain breads and cereals. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and getting regular exercise will also help.
Frequent Urination
Pressure against the bladder by the growing uterus will cause the feeling of needing to go to the bathroom often. This is normal (though bothersome) and there is nothing that can or should be done to prevent it. If frequent trips to the bathroom are disturbing your sleep, you may try limiting fluids after 8 pm. If you feel any pain or burning when you urinate, contact a healthcare provider.
Breast Tenderness
Your breasts may be feeling tender or your nipples may be very sensitive. That is also a very normal part of pregnancy. Wearing a bra with good support may relieve discomfort from movement and wearing a bra at night may help with the sensitivity of the nipples.
Dizziness
Some women may experience dizziness when they move or rise quickly. The best way to avoid this is to change positions slowly and often. Eat and drink on a regular schedule and don't go long periods without eating. Also, make sure you get enough liquids.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Changing hormones and disruptions to your life may cause you to feel like you are on an emotional roller coaster. Talking about your feelings with a caring professional or supportive friend may help. Stress and anxiety can often be relieved by talking about them with a good listener. Avoid caffeine and sugar. Getting adequate sleep can also help.