THIRD TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY IS WHEN A LOT OF WOMEN EXPERIENCE PHYSICAL DISCOMFORT. EXPERTS SHARE TIPS TO STAY COMFORTABLE AND MANAGE THESE PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS
A
positive pregnancy result can trigger a
range of emotions for a new
expectant mother where in addition to the thrill of embarking on a new journey
in life, there are many women who also feel anxious and uneasy about the
numerous changes that they will experience however, a few simple measures can
help women enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy and alleviate any worries. Many
women mistakenly assume that pregnancy entails numerous restrictions whereas in
reality, there are few limitations on what one can and cannot do while
pregnant.
Tips for pregnant women to manage common
pregnancy symptoms, stay comfortable in your third trimester
The
third trimester of pregnancy is a time when a lot of women experience physical
discomfort and from difficulty sleeping to backache, staying comfortable during
the last trimester can be a significant challenge. In an interview with HT
Lifestyle, Dr Geeth Monnappa, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at
SPARSH Hospital shared a few tips to manage them:
Managing Heartburn
Heartburn
is a common discomfort experienced by pregnant women during the first trimester
and in the last month of pregnancy. However, there are some useful tips that
can alleviate the symptoms. It is recommended to avoid spicy, fatty, and citrus
foods that can trigger heartburn. Sitting upright after a meal can help prevent
the reflux of food into the esophagus. Additionally, having an early dinner and
engaging in physical activity after meals can aid digestion and reduce heartburn.
These simple measures can help pregnant women manage heartburn and have a more
comfortable pregnancy experience.
Frequent urination
Frequent
urination is a common occurrence during the early months of pregnancy when the
uterus presses against the bladder, and in the last month when the baby's head
descends into the pelvis. However, it is important to consult an obstetrician
to rule out a urine infection that can also cause frequent urination.
Backache in pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body goes through several changes, one of which is the relaxation of joints and connective tissue that support the bones. This can lead to aches and pains, particularly in the back. However, there are several tips that can help alleviate the discomfort. It is recommended to use chairs with good back support to maintain a proper posture. Wearing good and stable footwear can also help distribute the body's weight evenly and reduce the stress on the back. Additionally, engaging in regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, ultimately reducing the chances of experiencing backache during pregnancy.
Braxton Hicks contractions
As
the due date approaches, you may encounter irregular cramps in the lower
abdomen that do not last long. These are known as Braxton Hicks contractions.
Try taking a mild walk, move your position, take a relaxing bath, and drink
good amounts of water. Also, let your healthcare provider know about the
contractions.
Dealing with anxiety
As
you are nearing your due date, it is common for pregnant women to experience
anxiety about the delivery process. It is advisable to discuss childbirth,
birth companion, and pain relief options with a doctor. Talking to other women
who have had positive experiences can also be helpful, and it's essential to
maintain a positive attitude. Regular consultations with an obstetrician,
taking prenatal vitamins, getting immunizations, and undergoing ultrasounds are
crucial for a safe and healthy pregnancy journey. These measures can help
alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth and comfortable pregnancy experience.
Adding
to the list of tips, Dr Janani Manoharan, Gynaecologist and Obstetrician,
Infertility Specialist, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon at Belenus Champion
Hospital in Bangalore, suggested:
1.
Hydration -
During this time, the uterus puts pressure on the bladder causing you to pass
urine more frequently, which will unconsciously lead you to reduce your fluid
intake. I suggest my patients drink water from a particular bottle throughout
the day, so they would have an accountable fluid intake. Drink to thirst, at
least 2-3 L/day.
2.
Activity- Get
in more steps. Do kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Take
the stairs, as much as possible.
3.
Breathe -
Breathing exercises help with strengthening your abdominal and pelvic floor
muscles. It also does wonders in getting you through labor pains. Look up
YouTube videos on breathing techniques during labor and practice them.
4. Diet - The third trimester is notorious for increasing heartburn. This is because the stomach is pushed up further into your chest by your growing uterus. To avoid heart burns, have small frequent meals, reduce the spice level of your foods. Increase your intake of uncooked foods like veggies and fruits in the form of salads, smoothies, juices. Do not go all out and eat for two, excessive weight gain and decreased calorie intake, both are detrimental to your baby. When in doubt speak to your ObGyn.
5.
Doctor visits - Be
up to date with your tests and health checks. Discuss with your ObGyn the
process of labor and what to expect. Ask all of your labor questions, remember
no question is too silly. Get the right information from the right source, your
ObGyn.
6.
Baby movements -
Make sure your baby is moving a minimum of 10 times a day. Never hesitate to
visit your ObGyn if you are doubtful about your baby movements.
7.
Social media- Stay
away from the million labor groups on social media, unless you are there only
to have fun. Never let social media get you more anxious. Every pregnancy is
different and it's only for you and your ObGyn to take informed decisions
regarding your pregnancy.
8.
Family - Try
to get in quality time with your partner coz it's no secret that once the baby
gets here, time will always be elusive.
Last
but not the least, relax and enjoy your pregnancy. Women have been giving birth
since forever and modern medicine can do unimaginable wonders, with this
knowledge, be at peace. Enjoy your time with your baby inside of you. You got
this.
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