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Pregnancy Issues

During pregnancy, a lot changes in your body. Due to hormones and the growth of your baby, various complaints can arise. Many of these complaints are normal, but that doesn't mean you have to live with them. Feel free to discuss them during a check-up.

Nausea

Nausea is especially common in the first months and is related to hormonal changes.

What can help:
  • Eat small amounts, but regularly 
  • Eat something before you get up in the morning 
  • Drink enough water 
  • Try ginger tea or ginger capsules 

If nausea persists strongly, please contact us.

Fatigue

Your body is working hard to grow your baby. Especially in the beginning, you may feel extra tired because of this.

What can help:
  • Listen to your body and take extra rest 
  • Maintain a regular sleep pattern 
  • Go outside for a bit every day 

Pelvic and back pain

Pregnancy hormones make ligaments and joints more flexible, which can cause pain in the pelvis or lower back.

What can help:
  • Alternate between activity and rest 
  • Pay attention to your posture 
  • Avoid heavy lifting 
  • Stay active, but do it gently 

If pain persists, a pelvic physiotherapist can provide support.
Stomach acid

Due to the growth of the uterus and the loosening of the stomach valve, stomach acid can rise more easily.

What can help:
  • Eat small portions 
  • Don’t eat right before sleeping 
  • Raise the head of your bed slightly 
  • Limit fatty or spicy foods 

Hard bellies

Hard bellies are contractions of the uterus, often as a response to exertion or activity.

What can help:
  • Take a break when you feel them 
  • Drink enough water 
  • Sit or lie down for a while 

Fluid retention

During pregnancy, your body retains more fluid, often in the hands, feet, and ankles.

What can help:
  • Elevate your legs regularly 
  • Keep moving 
  • Avoid standing too long at a time 

Cramp in the legs

Cramp often occurs at night and is related to changes in muscles and circulation.

What can help:
  • Gently stretch the calf muscle 
  • Drink enough 
  • Regularly move during the day 

Ligament pain

Ligament pain occurs because the ligaments around the uterus stretch during growth.

What can help:
  • Move gently and avoid sudden movements 
  • Take a moment to sit or lie down if in pain 
  • A supportive belly band if needed 

Dizziness

Due to changes in your circulation and blood pressure, you may sometimes feel dizzy.

What can help:
  • Stand up slowly 
  • Eat and drink regularly 
  • Take a moment to sit or lie down if you have symptoms 

Constipation

Due to hormonal changes, your intestines work slower, which can cause constipation.

What can help:
  • High-fiber foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grain products) 
  • Drink enough 
  • Regularly exercise 

Varicose veins

Due to increased blood flow and pressure on blood vessels, varicose veins can develop in the legs or groin area.

What can help:
  • Regularly move 
  • Elevate your legs 
  • Avoid standing for too long 
  • Wear compression stockings if needed 

Tingling or sleeping hands

Fluid retention can create pressure on nerves, which can cause tingling or a numb feeling, especially at night.

What can help:
  • Give your hands and wrists some rest 
  • Wear a wrist brace if needed 
  • Regularly move and stretch 

These complaints usually resolve on their own after childbirth.

In conclusion

If you have any doubts or are experiencing a lot of discomfort, don't hesitate to reach out. During the check-ups, we will gladly look into it together and think about what can help you.