Ankle edema → rest with your feet elevated
→ avoid prolonged standing
→ avoid restrictive garments in the lower half of your body
Backache → apply local heat
→ avoid prolonged standing
→ stoop to pick up objects
→ Tylenol in usual adult dose may help
→ wear low – heeled shoes
→ maintain correct posture
→ tailor sitting, pelvic rocking and shoulder circling exercises and strengthen back
Breast Tenderness → wear a supportive bra
→ decrease the amount of caffeine and carbonated beverages ingested
Constipation → increase fiber in diet
→ drink additional fluids
→ have a regular time for bowel movements
Difficulty sleeping → drink a warm caffeine-free drink before bed and practice relaxation techniques
Fatigue → schedule rest periods daily; have a regular bedtime routine
→ use extra pillow for comfort
Faintness → move slowly
→ avoid crowds
→ remain in a cool environment
→ lie on your left side when at rest
Headache → avoid eye strain
→ visit your eye doctor
→ rest with a cool cloth on your forehead
→ take Tylenol in a regular adult dose, as needed
→ report frequent persistent headaches to your primary care provider
Heartburn → eat small, frequent meals each day
→ avoid overeating, as well as spicy, fatty and fried foods
Hemorrhoids → avoid constipation and straining with a bowel movement
→ take a sitz bath. Apply a witch hazel compress.
Leg cramps → avoid pointing your toes
→ straighten your leg and dorsiflex your ankle
→ avoid crossing legs
Nausea → eat 6 small meals/day rather than 3
→ eat a piece of dry toast or some crackers before getting out of bed
→ avoid foods or situations that worsen the nausea. If it persist, report this problem to your primary care provider.
→ drink fluids separately rather than with your meals
→ avoid fried, greasy, gas - producing, or spicy foods and foods with strong odors
Nasal stuffiness → use cool air vaporizer or humidifier; increase fluid intake; place moist towel on the sinuses, and massage the sinuses
Ptyalism → use mouthwash as needed
→ chew gum / suck on hard candy
Round Ligament Pain → avoid twisting motions
→ rise to a standing position slowly and use your hands to support the abdomen
→ bend forward to relieve discomfort
Shortness of breath → use proper posture
→ use pillows behind head and shoulders at night
Urinary frequency → void as necessary at least every 2 hours
→ increase fluid intake
→ avoid caffeine
→ practice Kegel exercise (to prevent straining of muscles during labor and delivery)
Vaginal discharge → wear cotton underwear
→ bathe daily
→ avoid tight pantyhose
Varicose veins → walk regularly. Rest with feet elevated.
→ avoid prolonged standing
→ don’t cross your legs when sitting
→ avoid knee-high stockings; wear support hosiery
