Normal Discomforts of Pregnancy

What are some typical pregnancy symptoms during the first trimester?

• urinary frequency/incontinence

• fatigue/n/v

• breast tenderness (ducts + breastmilk forming)

• constipation (slow GI movement)

• cravings + pica

• nosebleeds + bleeding gums (weaker capillaries)

• leukorrhea

• headaches

TRUE/FALSE: it’s normal for headaches to no longer be resolved by tylenol when pregnant.

false

What is leukorrhea?

increased vaginal discharge during the first trimester

What is supposedly the easiest trimester?

2nd trimester

What are some typical pregnancy symptoms during the third trimester?

• SOB/dyspnea

• heartburn + indigestion

• dependent edema

• braxton hicks contractions

• insomnia

What should you educate patients on about braxton hicks contractions?

<6 contractions per hour that should decrease if changing activities (e.g. lying down should help)

What should you tell patients when discussing nausea + vomiting?

eat small, frequent meals + stay hydrated!

What advice can you give patients about backache?

exercises, pillows, + heating pads (but be careful with heat!)

What advice can you give patients about varicosities + hemorrhoids?

witch hazel pads, creams, + not straining/preventing getting constipated

What should you AVOID when pregnant?

• saunas/hot hubs

• roller coasters (or anything that can stop abruptly!)

• live vaccines (e.g. MMR)

• scuba diving

• intense activity (not done going into pregnancy)

Why should you avoid roller coasters or anything that stops abruptly?

it can tear the placenta away from the uterus

Can you exercise in pregnancy?

yes (if you were already doing it before!)

Why are you at risk for blood clots during pregnancy?

increased fibrinogen

How can you prepare for labor?

reduce fear of the unknown (learn!), take classes, and prepare coping strategies for childbirth ahead of time

What are the three developmental tasks of pregnancy?

“I am pregnant,” “I am going to have a baby,” “I am going to be a mom”