Pregnancy is such an exciting time with so many changes happening within your body. Though many of these changes are welcome and thrilling, unfortunately, it is very common to experience some unpleasant and uncomfortable symptoms. Though most women will experience something from this list, everyone is different and will have different symptoms. This list isn’t meant to scare, but rather to inform and be a resource if you’re going through a rough patch during your pregnancy! We hope you find it helpful. As always, if you are unsure about something with your pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider (doctor or midwife) for help.
| Symptom | When and why does this happen? | What to do? |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea and Vomiting (“Morning Sickness”) | This can occur at any point but is usually worse during the first trimester. The exact cause is unknown but it may be caused by hormonal or other changes in early pregnancy. | – Eat foods rich in protein, especially first thing in the morning – Ginger or sour foods can reduce nausea – Try to avoid low blood sugar – eat or snack every 2 hours – Carbohydrates are helpful to some (ie. saltine crackers) – Foods rich in Vitamin B6 are helpful – Stay hydrated and get out of bed slowly in the morning – If vomiting is severe and you are unable to keep down fluids for a long time, or are dehydrated, contact your provider – Speak with your provider about medication that can help |
| Constipation, Bloating and Gas | Constipation, bloating, and gas can occur throughout pregancy. In the early months, it is due to hormonal changes that occur. It can also be caused by the extra iron in prenatal vitamins. In late pregnancy, the bowels have less space which can slow down digestion. | – Drink lots of fluids – Increase dietary fibre intake by eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes – Walking/exercise every day does wonders for digestion – Prune juice can be helpful – Rest feet on a small footstool during bowel movements (ie. “Squatty Potty”) |
| Heartburn | Some people experience heartburn throughout their pregnancy, but it is most common in the third trimester. It occurs due to hormonal changes and the uterus pushing the stomach up into a small space, pushing gastric acid from your stomach into your esophagus. | – Over the counter antacids in moderate amounts can help (ie Tums, Maalox, Gaviscon) if your provider says it’s okay – Avoid greasy, spicy foods, and caffiene – Avoid eating close to bedtime and try propping yourself up with pillows in a semi-seated position if heartburn affects you at night – Eat 6 small meals instead of 3 large meals during the day – Pineapple can help |
| Hemorrhoids | These are seen most often in the later months of pregnancy, due to increased pressure on the rectum and perineum from the baby, as well as straining due to constipation. | – Try to avoid constipation and straining if possible. See tips above for helping with constiptation. – Ice packs, “Tucks pads”, witch hazel on a cloth can help reduce pain and swelling – You can speak to your provider about topical ointments and medicated suppositories if hemmorhoids are not improving or are very bothersome |
| Bleeding Gums/Nosebleeds | Increased blood flow throughout pregnancy can cause this symptom. It’s very common for pregnant people to experience some type of oral health issue during prenancy (including bleeding gums, toothache, and increased tooth sensitivity). | – Be meticulous and consistent about tooth brushing and flossing, though make sure to do both gently – Visit the dentist/hygienist every 3 months during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or as advised by your dentist – Proper nutrition during pregnancy is imperative in maintaining proper oral health – For nasal stuffiness causing nosebleeds, drink lots of fluids and try using a humidifier |
| Back, Pelvic, Hip, and Round Ligament Pain | Many people struggle with various aches and pains throughout their pregnancy, but especially in the later months. Pelvic ligaments relaxing, the weight of the baby, and changing centre of gravity can all cause pain and discomfort. Round ligament pain is a sharp pain on either or both sides of the uterus. These ligaments are being forced to stretch to accommodate the growing uterus, which can cause pain. | – Proper posture and body mechanics when sitting, lifting and moving are important – See a physiotherapist or chiropractor if pain is impacting your daily activities – Warm baths and massage can be soothing – Wearing a pregnancy support belt can help redistribute the weight of your growing baby – Remember that Advil/Ibuprofin/Motrin is NOT safe during pregnancy. Tylenol is the only over-the-counter pain killer that should be used |
| Leg Cramps | During the second half of pregnancy, many people experience calf cramps. This can be caused by increased pressure on blood vessels in your abdomen, reducing blood flow to legs. It can also be caused by deficiencies in calcium and magnesium. | – Staying hydrated and active can help prevent cramping – When cramping occurs in your calf, try straightening your leg, and flex your foot with your toes pointing towards your knee – Walking and gently massaging your cramped muscle may help as well – Ensure your are eating a healthy, balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, and adequate calcium and magnesium intake. |
| Swelling (Edema) | The third trimester is when most people notice an increase in swelling of the hands and feet, especially in warm weather or later in the day. | – Try elevating your feet – Lie on your left side – Continue drinking lots of fluids – If sudden or severe swelling occurs, especially in the face, contact your provider, as this can be a sign of preeclampsia |
| Varicose Veins | Varicose veins may appear in the later months of pregancy, particularly if you have a family history. They usually develop on the legs, but sometimes appear on the vulva due to increased blood volume and increased pressure on the blood vessels from the uterus. They are usually a cosmetic concern, but sometimes become painful or bleed. | – If you are concerned about your varicose veins, talk to your provider – Try to avoid staying in one position for a long time – Elevate your legs when able to – Consider wearing compression socks – Stay active to keep the blood flowing well in your legs |
| Fatigue | Fatigue is very common during pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters. Hormonal changes as well as rapid growth and development of the fetus cause the exhaustion in the early months. In late pregnancy, your body is busy making extra blood and supporting the rapidly growing baby. It’s also just plain tiring carrying around the extra weight of the baby. | – Rest as much as you can by napping and going to bed earlier, if possible – Exercise if not contraindicated – Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods – Ask for help from friends and family, especially if you have other children |
| Insomnia | Hormones and feeling uncomfortable can make it hard to sleep at any point during pregnancy. | – Try to go to bed early and at roughly the same time every night – Make yourself more comfortable using extra pillows – If you have trouble falling asleep, try relaxation exercises, stretching, meditation, or reading before bed – Get some exercise during the day – Stay hydrated – Keep your bedroom cool and quiet |
| Frequent Urination | This is caused by hormonal changes in early pregnancy and by increased pressure on the bladder in later pregnancy. | – If having pain or burning with urination, talk to your provider – Don’t avoid drinking fluids; your body needs to stay hydrated – Ensure you empty your bladder regularly |
| Stress Incontinence (Urine Leaks) | Stress Incontinence can occur in the third trimester as your baby becomes bigger and pushes on your bladder and your pelvic floor muscles become more strained. You might leak urine when you cough, sneeze, jump, or laugh. | – Wear a panty liner/pad – See a pelvic health physiotherapist or your provider for advice on pelvic floor strengthening |
| Vaginal Discharge Changes | Throughout pregnancy, you may notice a thicky milky discharge called leukorrhea. This is caused by increased hormone levels. | – Wear a panty liner/pad – Wear breathable underwear – Contact provider if discharge is itchy, has a foul odour, or you have burning/redness |
| Breast Changes | Breasts may be tender early pregnancy, due to increased hormones. You may notice changes to your breasts, such as increased size and darkened nipples, as your breasts prepare for breastfeeding. | – Wear a bra that provides good support and fits well – Wear a comfortable bra to bed for support while sleeping – Choose loose-fitting clothes that do not put pressure on your breasts – Warm or cool compresses can help – If your skin is itchy from stretching, apply a moisturizing cream |
| Skin Changes | Some people experience changes to their skin throughout pregnancy. You may notice blotchy skin and acne. As your body grows and changes, stretch marks may appear, which can be itchy. Skin pigmentation changes can also occur. | – Try to avoid hot showers/baths, which can dry out your skin – Liberal application of moisturizing cream can help with skin itchiness from stretchmarks |
| Braxton-Hicks Contractions | In the last couple months of pregnancy, you might notice uterine contractions known as Braxton-Hicks contractions. Unlike labour contractions, these contractions are irregular, and often painless. They will decrease or disappear if you hydrate, change positions, or rest. They may be somewhat more painful if this pregnancy is not your first. | – Ensure you are staying hydrated and as rested as possible – Try drinking a big glass of water and relaxing in a warm bath if having painful Braxton-Hicks contractions – If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant and contractions are regular, painful, and lasting 60 seconds or less, contact your provider because you may be in labour |
| Shortness of Breath | You may notice this during the late stages of pregnancy due to the baby pressing up on your diaphragm. | – Try to breathe clean air; stay away from secondhand smoke and other pollutants – If you need help quitting smoking, talk to your provider – Sit or stand up straight to give your lungs more room to expand |
| Dizziness/Fainting | If this symptom occurs, it is usually in the later stages of pregnancy due to low iron, low blood pressure, or low blood sugar. | – Stand up slowly – Wear compression socks to help prevent blood from pooling in your legs – Ensure you are staying hydrated and eating regular meals/snacks – Speak with your provider if having persistent dizziness |
