SIGNS OF PREGNANCY
As the baby grows, you may feel changes in your body and physical condition. Learn more below on the various symptoms you may face during pregnancy. Consult your doctor at an early stage if you find your symptoms to be severe or showing no sign of improvement.
Nausea from morning sickness
Morning sickness symptoms differ greatly between individuals. Some women have severe morning sickness, where others have almost no symptoms. As an empty stomach tends to aggravate symptoms, it is better to always have a small snack ready with you.
Leg Cramps
The enlarged uterus puts pressure on the bottom half of the body during pregnancy, causing poor blood circulation. For this reason, a pregnant woman becomes more susceptible to leg cramps when she turns over sleeping or hastily stretches her legs. When you do get a leg cramp, stretch your muscles by flexing your toes towards the top of your foot or gently massaging the entire foot. Insufficient calcium intake and lack of exercise also may cause leg cramps, so make sure to actively eat calcium-rich foods and do regular prenatal exercises.
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Stretch Marks
Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched to accommodate the rapidly growing belly and breasts during pregnancy. Prevent stretch marks by caring for the skin with creams or baby oils from the early stages of pregnancy, when the belly is still small.
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Orthostatic hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension may occur when less blood is being delivered to the brain due to thinner red cell concentration or unstable autonomic nerves during pregnancy. Try not to stand up quickly, and take your time with all your actions. What's more, because the fetus receives iron from the mother's body, pregnant women are also susceptible to anemia. Actively eat foods rich in iron, and also try to get Vitamin C at the same time, as it will help iron absorption.
Itchy Skin
Skin during pregnancy tends to be very sensitive, and many women feel itchiness in their skin. Moisturising well after bathing, avoiding underwear using lace or elastic, and maintaining clean skin is the first step towards preventing itchiness.
Swelling
As the body produces more blood and bodily fluids during mid-pregnancy to late-pregnancy, a pregnant woman may often suffer from swelling. Exercise and stretching are effective in promoting blood circulation. If the skin in the swollen area becomes temporarily dented when pressed, or if you find it difficult to clench your fists, make sure to keep your feet warm and watch your salt intake.
Constipation
Pregnant women are susceptible to constipation. This is caused by effects from larger amounts of progesterone during pregnancy, which decreases intestine functions. Be sure to eat food rich in fibre along with a good amount of water. Eat three balanced meals with a sufficient amount of exercise.
