Throughout the 9 months of pregnancy, fluctuating hormone levels not only affect mood but also cause various symptoms in pregnant mothers. To safely and happily get through this period, here are the symptoms that pregnant mothers should know to properly manage them.
Morning Sickness
The exact cause is still unknown. It is suspected that the rapidly rising hormone levels produced by the placenta in the first 3 months of pregnancy may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and more fatigue than usual. Some may experience loss of appetite and easy bloating. Most symptoms improve within the first 3 months, but if morning sickness is severe, consult a doctor immediately to check for abnormal pregnancies such as molar pregnancy or multiple pregnancies.
How to cope is to eat small meals more frequently, avoid greasy or fried foods to help digestion, which can greatly reduce morning sickness. Doctors may prescribe anti-nausea medication for some severe cases.
Facial Melasma and Darkened Skin
Caused by pregnancy hormones stimulating pigment cells under the skin, leading to abnormal clustering in certain areas of the body. The skin darkens on the face, neck, armpits, midline of the abdomen, areola, and nipples. However, these usually fade gradually 3-6 months after delivery. Stretch marks on the abdomen occur because the skin in that area has low elasticity during rapid uterine expansion, especially in people with dry skin, causing skin tears and itching.
How to cope is to apply cream, lotion, or olive oil to keep the skin moisturized. This increases skin elasticity and reduces or prevents stretch marks.
Leukorrhea (Vaginal Discharge)
Caused by pregnancy hormones stimulating the body to produce more mucus in the vagina. The discharge is white and cloudy without odor or itching and increases until delivery. However, if the discharge is yellow-green, has a foul smell, or causes itching, consult a doctor immediately.
Back Pain
Caused by the mother carrying the increasing weight of the uterus and fetus, as well as poor posture, wearing high heels, lifting heavy objects (or sometimes carrying children).
How to cope is to sit and practice proper posture exercises, get enough rest, and avoid causes that may lead to back pain.
Constipation
Caused by low fiber intake, insufficient water consumption, and increased progesterone hormone during pregnancy, which reduces the contraction of the large intestine. Additionally, the enlarged uterus presses on the large intestine, making stools hard and difficult to pass, which can cause hemorrhoids.
How to cope is to drink plenty of water and increase the intake of vegetables and fruits during pregnancy.
Calf Cramps
Caused by overuse or excessive use of calf muscles, or blood pooling in the area due to prolonged standing or sitting, combined with decreased blood calcium levels because some calcium is used for fetal bone development.
How to cope is to eat more calcium-rich foods such as fresh milk, small shrimp, and small fish. Also, resting during the day and practicing exercises or massaging the calves after walking a lot can help.
Lower Abdominal Pressure Pain
After the first month or so of pregnancy, most mothers may experience occasional lower abdominal pressure pain (no more than 5 times a day) caused by mild uterine contractions. This is normal during pregnancy. However, if the pain occurs frequently, such as more than 10 times a day or 2-3 times per hour for several consecutive hours, it may be a warning sign of miscarriage or preterm labor, so consult a doctor immediately.
Swelling in Legs or Feet
Generally, in the last 3-4 months before delivery, some mothers may experience mild swelling in the legs or feet. This can be observed by pressing a finger on the shin or top of the foot, where the skin will slightly indent. However, if the indentation is quite deep or very deep, the swelling may indicate some abnormal conditions such as preeclampsia or certain kidney diseases. Consult an obstetrician immediately.
In Case of Mild Leg or Foot Swelling During the Day
How to cope is to sit and rest with legs stretched out and elevated to hip level. At night before sleeping, elevate the feet slightly above the horizontal level to reduce swelling in the legs or feet.
