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Pregnancy may be one of the most wonderful times of your life. Soon-to-be moms are filled with joy as they watch their belly and baby grow, but even the easiest of pregnancies come with its share of unpleasant aches and pains. Pregnancy can also be exhausting and tough on your body as it is going through several changes, rapidly. Which aggravates further as the baby grows and starts to move around and kick your stomach. This may result in some painful conditions which may fade away as your pregnancy progresses. However, sometimes it may lead to weakening a part of your body for good. Fortunately most of these aches and pains can be soothed over time.
Here are 4 common pregnancy aches and pains and some easy hacks to deal with them:
1. Cramps During Pregnancy
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Your body is susceptible to cramping in two instances during the course of your pregnancy: early stages of pregnancy or at the end of your pregnancy.
- Early Stages Of Pregnancy:
About two weeks after the conception, you may experience light cramps coupled with light bleeding when the fertilized egg pushes into the lining of the womb. This is known as implantation bleeding (1). You may also feel a sharp pain or muscle spasm around your pelvis region. This is due to stretching ligaments around your uterus. It is known as round ligament pain (2).
- End Of Pregnancy:
You may experience cramps in the form of practice contraptions towards the end of the second trimester or at the beginning of the third. These are known as Braxton Hick Contractions (3). These cramps will get worse as your due date approaches but you may find some relief when you walk or rest. They may hurt a little but that is completely normal. It’s just practice for the big day. However, if your contractions get too strong and close together, these may be signs of labor and it is advisable to contact your doctor.
2. Pinched Nerves
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Pinched nerves occur in pregnancy due to weight gain. As your baby grows, the water retention in your body causes the nerve pathways to swell up and compress the nerves (4). Surrounding tissues like bones, cartilages, tendons and muscles apply pressure to the nerve which aggravates the pain. A pinched nerve can occur anywhere on the body and feel different based on the location. If a pinched nerve is located on your wrist it can lead to your fingers and hands feeling numb. This is known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (5). However, if there is a nerve under pressure around your spine, it can lead to a sharp pain and you may suffer from a Herniated Disk (6). Resting may be your only option to help soothe these pains.
3. Dental Pain And Tooth Sensitivity
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Pregnancy affects everything, even your gums! Around your second trimester, you may notice that your gums have started to slightly bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. You may also experience swelling and redness and inflammation around your gums. Periodontitis is a serious gum infection which can occur during pregnancy (7). This infection damages the soft tissue and bones that support your teeth. It causes tooth erosion and cavities because of morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy.
Make sure to brush twice a day and take good care of your teeth. Floss and gargle with salt water to keep the cavities at bay. Switch to a softer brush if necessary and see your dentist every six months. If you feel any discomfort during your pregnancy, consult your dentist again. It is better to be safe than sorry.
4. Heartburn And Indigestion
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You may experience heartburn and indigestion throughout your pregnancy but it is more prominent in the first and third trimester when the valve between your esophagus and stomach is relaxed (8).This allows stomach acid to leak back which causes heartburn. You can manage this by sitting upright or moving around for 3 hours after you’ve eaten any meal. Try to eat dinner early so that you don’t lie down right away. Avoiding certain foods like chocolate, spicy food and eating smaller meals instead of one big one will help curb these symptoms. However, if you still suffer from these symptoms you can elevate your head while sleeping. Sometimes an additional pillow may not be good enough. Create a wedge between the box-spring and your mattress. It will do the trick!
Pregnancy can seem like a long 9 months when you grapple with different aches and pains everyday. But this precious time will be over before you know it. So, find ways to make the most out of your pregnancy days as they are numbered. Everyone experiences pregnancy pains at some point. It is perfectly normal and will fade away once you give birth. Focus on prioritizing your and your baby’s health.. This is the beginning of your journey together. And although there are bound to be a few bumps along the way, this will only bring you closer together. Happy pregnancy!
