Now that you’re pregnant, your body will undergo many changes. Over the next nine months, expect both good and bad symptoms. Some women experience one or more health problems during pregnancy and these problems, in some cases, make it a high-risk pregnancy. Fortunately, there are lots of natural remedies to help combat these health problems. Here are four common health problems during pregnancy and natural remedies that can help you.
1. Gallbladder Problems
What are the causes of gallbladder problems? Pregnant women are at a higher risk because their bodies produce more estrogen. This can lead to an increase in the amount of cholesterol in the bile and also reduce gallbladder contradictions. Doctors refer to this process “cholestasis of pregnancy.” This process makes it difficult for bile to escape the gallbladder. And it is also associated with increased risk for complications such as the following:
- Passing meconium (stool) before birth
- Stillbirth
- Premature birth
There are several symptoms of cholestasis of pregnancy. These include:
- Urine darker than usual
- Intense itching
- Jaundice
- Nausea
- Pain in the upper right or middle section of your stomach
- Abdominal bloating
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
Surgery is one of the most common ways of treating gallbladder problems. Experts say that more than 70,000 gallstone surgeries are done yearly in North America. However, the number of people turning to natural remedies is also incredibly high according to these same experts. The most common natural treatments include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Avoiding rapid weight loss
- Following anti-inflammatory diet to support the health of the gallbladder and liver
- Being more active
- Avoiding some birth control pills
2. Morning Sickness
Approximately three-quarters of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting, especially in the mornings. So, if you are suffering from the same, you are not alone. The good news is that these symptoms typically ease up at the beginning of the second trimester. Some natural remedies have also shown to help relieve these symptoms. Experiment with a few of them till you find one or a few combinations that work best for you.
Eat Smart
What and when you eat can determine the intensity of your symptoms. Avoid large meals and snacks and opt for easy-to-digest foods like warm milk, cheese stick, toast, and crackers. Ensure you eat a balanced diet but avoid spicy, high-fat foods.
Stay Hydrated
Drink between meals instead of while you are eating to prevent your stomach getting too full. You can experiment with ginger beer, ginger tea, ice-cold water, or sparkling water.
Consider Taking Vitamin B6
You can take a supplement of vitamin B6 or switch to one with a higher dose. If you are not sure, ask your doctor. Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce early-pregnancy nausea.
Clear your Mind
Don’t concern yourself with too much unnecessary stuff. Practice relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress.
3. Constipation
For some pregnant women, going to the bathroom is a big problem. This health problem can worsen by the third trimester, which can, unfortunately, result in more severe issues such as hemorrhoids. Be sure to talk to your doctor if your constipation is becoming a serious health issue. However, if there is no cause for alarm, you can just use the following natural remedies:
Hydrate
Ensure you take the right amount of liquids frequently to keep all body processes working normally. Always keep a water bottle beside you for whenever you feel thirsty.
Body Pillow
Use the right types of body pillows, especially donut-shaped body pillows. This can help reduce pressure in your rectal area.
Fiber
Ensure your diet includes a healthy fiber. Opt for foods such as fruits, flax seed, beans, hearty grains, chia seeds, prune juice, and vegetables. If you start this process early enough, you will be able to fight constipation and prevent hemorrhoids at the same time.
4. Heartburn
During their pregnancy, women can experience an irritating burning sensation in their throats and chest area. This always results from the ever-growing uterus pushing the stomach acid in the wrong direction. You can use these remedies to treat your heartburn:
Chew Sugarless Gum
Stay away from chew gums with peppermint. They are highly acidic. Opt for those that can stimulate the saliva for an acid-neutralizing effect.
Sleep Well
Wait for a while after a meal before lying down to sleep. Also, elevate your head when sleeping. If you still cannot sleep well, engage in different exercises a few hours to bedtime. After this, your body will calm down and be ready to sleep. Try these exercises that can you help you even on your delivery day. If you have no time or don’t know other exercises to help you clear your mind before sleep, use these and reap the two benefits concurrently.
Avoid Heartburn Triggers
At mealtimes, opt for carbonated drinks and sparkling water. However, avoid spicy or citrus foods. Instead of focusing on the three big meals in a day, try eating small snack-sized portions frequently throughout the day.
Final thoughts
Pregnancy symptoms such as heartburn, constipation, and nausea are common, and they put a real damper on most women’s excitement about having their own children. Use the above natural remedies to prevent these problems.
Author Bio:
Mike Jones decided to put to good use his knowledge of alternative remedies and writing by starting HomeRemedyShop. He hopes to convince others that nature has a great impact on our well-being and we should pay more attention to it.