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  • Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy

    A common discomfort in pregnancy is hemorrhoids. You may experience hemorrhoids when blood flow increases and your growing uterus puts pressure on your rectum and perineum. Hemorrhoids are basically enlarged (varicose) veins in the rectal area that can become worse late in pregnancy and may even bleed slightly. Sometimes they are caused by straining because of constipation.

    Try to avoid constipation by drinking plenty of water and making sure you have enough fiber in your diet.  This will help you prevent hemorrhoids due to constipation.

    Warm sitz baths may bring some relief, as well as ice packs (or witch hazel pads, cooled in the refrigerator) if they become very uncomfortable.  Hemorrhoids occur the most in the third trimester although they can present themselves at anytime when constipated.  Hemorrhoids can be extremely painful.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    –Backaches
    –Breast Discomfort
    –Braxton Hicks Contractions
    –Constipation
    –Dizziness and Fainting
    –Fatigue
    –Hand Numbness
    –Headaches
    –Heartburn and Indigestion
    –Hemorrhoids
    –Increased Discharge
    –Itchy Abdomen
    –Leg Cramps
    –Nausea and Morning Sickness
    –Overheating
    –Pelvic Pressure
    –Sleep Trouble
    –Swelling
    –Urinary Problems
    –Varicose Veins

  • Heartburn and Indigestion

    When stomach muscles relax due to increased levels of pregnancy hormones, indigestion and heartburn can occur.  Another reason for heartburn is that your uterus puts pressure on your stomach in the last half of pregnancy.  You may experience a burning sensation close to your heart, as stomach acid irritates the lining of your esophagus.

    Remedies for Heartburn

    To help avoid heartburn, avoid spicy, greasy and fried foods and eat smaller meals, chewing your food slowly and thoroughly. Don’t lay down right after eating a meal and it most likely will help to sleep at night with your head slightly elevated by extra pillows. Don’t take any antacids without consulting with your doctor or midwife beforehand.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    –Backaches
    –Breast Discomfort
    –Braxton Hicks Contractions
    –Constipation
    –Dizziness and Fainting
    –Fatigue
    –Hand Numbness
    –Headaches
    –Heartburn and Indigestion
    –Hemorrhoids
    –Increased Discharge
    –Itchy Abdomen
    –Leg Cramps
    –Nausea and Morning Sickness
    –Overheating
    –Pelvic Pressure
    –Sleep Trouble
    –Swelling
    –Urinary Problems
    –Varicose Veins

  • Pregnancy Headaches

    When a combination of common hormonal changes, fatigue and also stress put a strain on your body during pregnancy, you may experience headaches, especially during the first trimester. Relaxation, meditation and yoga may help, if your discomfort is caused by a tension headache. Proper nutrition, along with frequent meals can help you avoid hunger headaches that are triggered by low blood sugar. Stay away from smoky, unventilated rooms and get plenty of fresh air. A walk outside maybe just what you need. Also, keeping up your fluid intake can be very useful in alleviating headache symptoms. Don’t take any pain medications without being directed by your doctor or midwife.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    –Backaches
    –Breast Discomfort
    –Braxton Hicks Contractions
    –Constipation
    –Dizziness and Fainting
    –Fatigue
    –Hand Numbness
    –Headaches
    –Heartburn and Indigestion
    –Hemorrhoids
    –Increased Discharge
    –Itchy Abdomen
    –Leg Cramps
    –Nausea and Morning Sickness
    –Overheating
    –Pelvic Pressure
    –Sleep Trouble
    –Swelling
    –Urinary Problems
    –Varicose Veins

  • Hand Numbness in Pregnancy

    When swelling occurs in the nerves in your wrists, it can lead to a condition called Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, which can cause pain and numbness in your hands. The discomfort can be worse at night, so avoid laying on your hands when you sleep and if you wake up in pain, hang your hand over the side of your bed and shake it. If it becomes severe, you may need to wear a splint on your wrists to ease numbness.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    –Backaches
    –Breast Discomfort
    –Braxton Hicks Contractions
    –    Constipation
    –Dizziness and Fainting
    –Fatigue
    –Hand Numbness
    –Headaches
    –Heartburn and Indigestion
    –Hemorrhoids
    –Increased Discharge
    –Itchy Abdomen
    –Leg Cramps
    –Nausea and Morning Sickness
    –Overheating
    –Pelvic Pressure
    –Sleep Trouble
    –Swelling
    –Urinary Problems
    –Varicose Veins

  • The First Stage of Labor – Active Labor

    During the second part of the longest stage of labor, your cervix really opens up, continuing to dilate from about 4 centimeters up to 8 centimeters. Your contractions continue to become more intense, more regular and last longer, as your labor progresses. They get closer together, eventually about 3-5 minutes apart and may last over a minute each, as your baby gets in position for birth. Read more on labor below:

    Active Labor

    Physically, you may be feeling increasing pressure and pain in your back. You may be much less comfortable than the earlier phase, as your labor pains intensify and become more frequent. During this phase, you may feel more fatigue, leg discomfort and increasing mucousy discharge (bloody show), as well as diarrhea. If your water didn’t break earlier, it will now or your doctor or midwife may choose to rupture your membranes sometime during this phase. During active labor, some women request an epidural or other pain medication.

    Emotionally, you may feel increasingly restless and anxious, especially if this phase lasts a long time. Your mood may become more serious and your initial excitement may begin to wane as your pain gets worse. You may find it very difficult to concentrate, while dealing with contractions and your support person can help keep you focused.

    At this point, you will be headed for the hospital or there already. To reduce your growing discomfort, try breathing exercises and relaxation techniques (the ones that you may have learned in childbirth class), if you feel like doing them. Concentrate on resting and relaxing, because the more relaxed you are, the easier and quicker your labor may be. Soaking in a warm bath or taking a shower, may be helpful at this time. Experiment with different positions to find ones that are more comfortable. Discomfort can often be helped by positions that allow gravity to speed dilation, including walking, squatting or rolling on a birth ball. If you are confined to bed, try lying on your side.

    If your doctor or midwife agrees that it’s alright to do so, drink clear liquids or suck on ice chips to keep from becoming dehydrated and also to keep your mouth from becoming dry. If you become hungry, you can ask if it’s okay to have a light snack, such as Jell-O, although many hospitals won’t allow you to eat anything during labor. In between contractions, get up and walk around, if possible. Take this time to use the bathroom, because urinating regularly will allow your baby’s head to move down more easily into the birth canal. A gentle massage from your partner (or support person) may be welcomed, although some women prefer not to be touched during this phase of labor.

    Back to Labor Stages

  • Fertility Charting Tools

    To chart your fertility, the only tools you need are a ‘calendar’ or fertility chart/graph and a basal body thermometer. Basal thermometers are more accurate than regular thermometers and are ultra-sensitive, tracking your body’s slightest temperature shift. Most digital basal thermometers come with a sample graph that can be enlarged and duplicated on any copy machine, or you can even download a printable chart on-line. Some women prefer to do their charting completely on-line, it’s just a matter of person preference.

    Record your observations and findings on your chart each day. If you tend to have very regular cycles each month, your charts may look strikingly similar. If your monthly cycles are irregular, you may gain a wealth of information by charting for an extended period of time.

    –Tracking your basal body temperature (or BBT)
    –Observing changes in your cervical mucus
    –Monitoring your physical and emotional symptoms
    –Checking the position and shape of your cervix

  • Fatigue in Pregnancy

    Fatigue in Pregnancy

    When your pregnant body is working overtime, growing a human inside it, as well as with all the added hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy, it’s no wonder you may be experiencing less energy than usual. Get extra rest and sneak in naps when possible. You need extra sleep during pregnancy, so try and get to bed an hour or two earlier than you used to. Believe it or not, daily exercise and activity may actually increase your energy level, so go for a walk. Listen to your body signals and don’t overdo it.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    –Backaches
    –Breast Discomfort
    –Braxton Hicks Contractions
    –    Constipation
    –Dizziness and Fainting
    –Fatigue
    –Hand Numbness
    –Headaches
    –Heartburn and Indigestion
    –Hemorrhoids
    –Increased Discharge
    –Itchy Abdomen
    –Leg Cramps
    –Nausea and Morning Sickness
    –Overheating
    –Pelvic Pressure
    –Sleep Trouble
    –Swelling
    –Urinary Problems
    –Varicose Veins

     

  • Dizziness and Fainting

    When your blood sugar level becomes low, because you’ve gone too long without eating or when your blood suddenly shifts, causing your blood pressure to drop rapidly, you may experience some light headedness or dizziness and feel like fainting. Another common cause in the last half of pregnancy can be the extra pressure of your uterus on blood vessels and arteries. Make sure you don’t go for long periods of time without eating. Take snacks (especially those high in protein and iron) with you when you go places. Always remember to change positions and stand up slowly after sitting or lying down to avoid feeling dizzy and don’t stand for extended periods of time.

    More Pregnancy Discomforts

    —Backaches
    —Breast Discomfort
    —Braxton Hicks Contractions
    —    Constipation
    —Dizziness and Fainting
    —Fatigue
    —Hand Numbness
    —Headaches
    —Heartburn and Indigestion
    —Hemorrhoids
    —Increased Discharge
    —Itchy Abdomen
    —Leg Cramps
    —Nausea and Morning Sickness
    —Overheating
    —Pelvic Pressure
    —Sleep Trouble
    —Swelling
    —Urinary Problems
    —Varicose Veins

  • Fertility Charting

    Fertility charting is basically a pregnancy achievement technique. It requires recording all of your fertility signs on a chart; allowing you to track ovulation, predict the most fertile time in your cycle, understand your own personal fertility patterns and increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

    Besides rapid pregnancy achievement, charting can also be helpful in diagnosing and resolving many fertility issues, such as hormonal imbalance or ovulation problems. Potential complications that charting may be able to alert you on include anovulation (when no egg is released), low estrogen, low progesterone, thyroid conditions and even possible miscarriage.

    For couples having difficulty in conceiving, fertility charting can be a very valuable tool. Charting can help you identify your most fertile days, so you can make love on those days to increase your chances of conception. A woman is only fertile for a few short days (the egg lives and can be fertilized for 12-24 brief hours after ovulation) during each menstrual cycle, so timing when you make love is critical part of conception.

    In addition, many doctors and naturopaths strongly encourage fertility charting because it’s completely safe, natural and does not rely on drugs or medical procedures and there are no health risks or side effects. Plus, by charting your fertility, you will also become more aware of the patterns unique to your body, along with gaining a better understanding of how pregnancy is achieved. Once you understand these patterns and changes (and with a little patience), you can begin to anticipate ovulation through a combination of methods:

    –Tracking your basal body temperature (or BBT)
    –Observing changes in your cervical mucus
    –Monitoring your physical and emotional symptoms
    –Checking the position and shape of your cervix

    Read more on Fertility

  • Getting Pregnant

    One can increase their chances of getting pregnancy and increasing fertility. Most people believe the most fertile days during their cycle is 14 days after the beginning of their period, when really ovulation usually takes place about 14 days before your period begins. This is most accurate only if your periods are very regular. Say you have a 32-day cycle, then your most fertile day is most likely about day 18. Or if you have a 27 day cycle, day 13 is your most fertile day. It’s best to have intercourse starting a few days before ovulation, to heighten your chances of conceiving and improving fertility.
     

    Your Man and Conception

    Toxic chemicals can also cause deformed or low numbers of sperm. The following substances can potentially interfere with both men’s and women’s fertility: alcohol, caffeine, some drugs (including over-the-counter, prescription and “recreational”), cigarette smoking, marijuana, radiation, and chemicals such as lead, pesticides, polystyrene, benzene, mercury, and anesthetic gases. With regard to fertility, removing the problem usually allows the generation of new healthier sperm, but it may take up to 3 months for the quality and quantity to improve the chances of getting pregnant.

    Wearing tight underware or pants may push the testicles against the body, causing excessive heat- lowering a man’s sperm count. Have your partner trade in is tighty-whiteys for boxers at least 2 to 3 months before trying to get pregnant. Also, hot tubs, saunas, long distance bike-riding, a high fever as well as working around hot furnaces or ovens may also cause a man’s sperm count to drop dramatically.

  • Pregnant Week 7

    Pregnant Week 7

    This week of pregnancy your baby is about 1/3 of an inch in length now (crown-to-rump) and continuing to develop and grow very rapidly. Facial characteristics are now forming, with the beginnings of eyes, ears and nostrils. The upper and lower jaws and mouth are forming and the detail of your baby’s lips, tongue and teeth buds may now be visible.

    The lenses of your tiny baby’s eyes are also developing this week. Your baby’s brain and head are growing, along with the intestines, pituitary gland and pancreas. The leg and arm buds have grown and resemble paddles.

    Your baby’s heart is now made up of four chambers and pumping blood at about 150 beats per minute, which may be detected on ultrasound.

    You are still probably not ‘showing’ yet, although you may have gained or lost (if you’ve been bothered by morning sickness) a few pounds at this point, but you are most likely about the same as pre-pregnancy. Even though changes in you are happening much more gradually than your baby, don’t worry, those changes will come soon.

    Your breasts and nipples may be more tender or sore than you experience just prior to the beginning of your period, caused by hormonal changes that are associated with pregnancy. They also may be slightly larger and a bit swollen at this point, which is completely normal. In addition, you may notice the areola around your nipples getting darker and the glands elevating.

    << more weeks >>

  • Pregnant Week 6

    Pregnant Week 6

    Your baby is about 1/2 of an inch in length (from crown to rump) and is experiencing rapid growth. Limb buds begin to appear on the body, which will later form your baby’s arms and legs. Mid-way through this week, your baby’s eyes begin to form and tiny depressions will start to appear on either side of his or her head where the ears and inner ear will later form.

    Your baby’s digestive system is becoming more refined as the stomach and intestines develop. The appendix is in place now, as well. At this point, your baby is completely enclosed in the amniotic sac and the stalk begins to grow into the umbilical cord, forming blood vessels within. Your baby’s heart is beating and pumping blood, providing circulation for its tiny body this week.

    It’s been about an entire month now, since your baby was conceived, but you may not notice too many changes in your body quite yet. Your uterus is growing, but you probably haven’t noticed any major changes to your abdomen. It most likely hasn’t gotten much thicker at this point, especially if this is your first pregnancy.

    It’s normal for you to feel more tired and exhausted than you usually do. Fatigue is quite common throughout pregnancy, since your body is working so hard to create this little baby. Make sure you get plenty of rest (a nap in the afternoon wouldn’t hurt). Continue to take your prenatal vitamins, in addition to eating a well-balanced diet, because fatigue is often aggravated by a deficiency in iron or protein.

    << more weeks >>