Many discomforts of pregnancy occur when the growing uterus exerts pressure on internal organs. Gas, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, shortness of breath and backache are common problems during the last few weeks of pregnancy. Many pregnant women also suffer from fatigue and insomnia. If you experience any of these problems, try some of the following suggestions for relief.
Gas
Because food moves slower through the intestines during pregnancy, you may experience gas or bloating in the lower abdomen. To help relieve this problems:
- Avoid vegetables such as cabbage, brussel sprouts, beans or any food you know causes you to feel gas
- Walk or do mild exercise to aid digestion
- Maalox, Mylanta, Tums or Rolaids may be used for relief
Varicose veins
Pressure from the pregnant uterus contributes to the development of varicose veins in the legs and pelvic area by slowing blood flow from the legs.
If you notice that your legs ache and feel heavy and tired, your ankles swell or varicose veins are common in your family, try the following tips for prevention or relief:
- Wear maternity support hose. Put them on early in the morning, before your ankles swell.
- Rest frequently, lying down with legs elevated.
- Do not sit with your legs crossed at the knee.
- Do not wear hosiery with constricting waist bands.
- Avoid standing for long periods of time.
- Avoid sitting for long periods. If you must sit at work, get up and walk for a few minutes each hour.
- While taking a long trip in the car, stop every two hours and walk for 15 minutes.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are varicose veins of the rectum caused by pressure on the lower pelvis as the uterus enlarges. Hemorrhoids can be further aggravated by constipation. Some women may not be aware of hemorrhoids until they push during the second stages of labor.
If you have hemorrhoids during pregnancy or notice them after delivery, try these suggestions:
- Avoid constipation by drinking six to eight glasses of fluid a day and eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and other high fiber foods.
- Sit in the bathtub with four inches of hot water to decrease itchiness and swelling.
- Rest with the hips elevated on a pillow to take pressure off the lower pelvis.
- Do not use any ointments or hemorrhoid medication without consulting your doctor.
Shortness of breath
As the baby grows and the uterus enlarges upward into the abdomen, it causes pressure on the diaphragm. You may feel like you are not getting enough air. Although this sensation may frighten you, it is not dangerous because your lungs expand sideways to compensate. Some things to do when feeling short of breath are:
- Be sure to stand and sit up straight. Good posture makes room for the diaphragm and lungs to expand.
- Take slow deep breaths.
- Walk around rather than lie down. Lying down can increase shortness of breath.
- When sleeping, elevate your head with two or three pillows.
- Raise your arms over your head to expand the chest cavity, and take some slow deep breaths.
Backache
Backache is very common in late pregnancy. The weight of the uterus increases the curvature of the lower back, causing strain on the muscles and ligaments. The result is low backache. Here are some suggestions that may help:
- Use correct posture with shoulders, back and buttocks tucked in to help relieve strain on the lower back.
- Always bend from the knees rather than from the waist. Pull objects close to your body, then use your thigh muscles to lift to a standing position.
- Wear shoes with heels no higher than one inch.
- Take a warm bath.
- Have a massage.
- Consult your physician before using a heating pad.
- Try pelvic rocking and tailor sitting exercises.
Fatigue/Insomnia
Fatigue is very common during the last weeks of pregnancy. Pregnant women tire easily, and excessive fatigue can lead to insomnia. Insomnia is also a result of the physical discomforts you experience. Backache, leg aches, shortness of breath, increased urination, emotional tension and movements of the baby all may prevent women in late pregnancy from getting a good night's sleep. Here are some tips to help promote sleep and avoid excessive fatigue:
To promote sleep:
- Relax with a quiet pre-bedtime activity such as reading, sewing, watching television or playing cards.
- Avoid caffeine drinks after 6 pm.
- Do not drink fluids two hours before bedtime to decrease urination at night.
- Avoid heavy physical exertion in the evening.
- Take a warm bath or shower to help you relax and relieve aches and pains.
- Drink a warm glass of milk. Milk contains a substance called tryptophan that promotes sleep.
- Take a walk after dinner to decrease tension and help you relax.
- If you are taking Lamaze, practice slow-paced breathing and body relaxation techniques every night to help you relax and fall asleep.
- Use tapes available in book stores and video stores that promote relaxation.
- Use pillows and get into a comfortable position in bed before attempting to fall asleep.
To avoid excessive fatigue:
- Pace your household activities
- Nap or rest in the afternoon
- Allow your mate, family or friends to help with household tasks.
- Go to bed earlier. You shouldn't feel guilty about needing extra sleep. This is merely due to the hormonal effects of pregnancy.
Last Updated: September 24, 2009