FHN » Find a Service » Women's Health » Obstetrics » Second Trimester » Common pregnancy discomforts
Your body is an amazing system, specially designed to help you bring a new life into the world. Yet every pregnant woman has times when she thinks her body is betraying her. Here is a quick look at some of the most common physical complaints of pregnancy, categorized by their typical stage, and what you can do about them. If these tips don't help, be sure to discuss stubborn symptoms with a member of your healthcare team.
| WHAT YOU'RE FEELING | WHAT THE CAUSE COULD BE | WHAT YOU CAN DO |
| Groin pain/low stomach pain | Round ligaments that hold the uterus in place are stretched. Poor posture and/or standing too long. | Bend forward when laughing, coughing, or sneezing. Use good posture. In bed, draw your knees up then roll to side. Do not twist/move body all at once. |
| Leg cramps | Sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time causes pooling of blood in legs. Pressure of enlarged uterus on nerves and blood vessels. Pointing of toes. Lack of calcium. Fatigue. | Don't point your toes to stretch; instead flex your toes upward. Increase calcium intake. Eat bananas or other potassium-rich foods. Get adequate rest. Keep yourself hydrated. |
| Vaginal discharge | Thickening of lining increases secretions, helping to play a role in preventing infections. | Wear cotton panties/underwear. Call a member of your healthcare team if discharge becomes foul smelling, causes burning or itching, or becomes watery any time in mid- to- late pregnancy. |
| Stuffy nose or nosebleeds | Increased blood volume. | Use a humidifier and lubricate nasal passages with a small amount of petroleum jelly. If severe, notify a member of your healthcare team. |
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Common pregnancy discomforts
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