Page 8 - GCMC Second Trimester

8
Pregnancy Symptoms & Changes
During the second trimester, certain pregnancy symptoms may persist, like nausea and constipation. At the same time, others may pop up for the first time as your belly continues to grow and levels of pregnancy hormones rise. Some of these symptoms and changes may include:
ROUND LIGAMENT PAIN. This may appear around the 14th week of pregnancy and peaks at 18 to 20 weeks, with relief around 26 weeks. These are sharp, stabbing pains
on the side of your lower abdomen caused by pulling of uterine ligaments. They are ag- gravated by physical activity and turning motions. These pains are often brief and usually subside by taking it easy and resting. Pains that are severe or persist should be evaluated by your doctor.
BACKACHES. These usually occur in the second half of pregnancy and can be muscle or nerve related, such as pain radiating down the legs. It is caused by the changes to your posture from your abdomen enlarging. Avoid high heeled shoes and prolonged sitting.
SWELLING. This is common in the second half of pregnancy and is usually in the lower legs and feet. To reduce leg swelling, try to keep active, kick up your feet when you’re not moving, avoid long periods of standing or sitting, and sleep on your side.
LEG CRAMPS. These can be due to hormones and weight as well as a shortage of min- erals like calcium, magnesium, or potassium. Be sure to keep eating a healthy, well-bal- anced pregnancy diet.
VARICOSE VEINS. These are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. To minimize or prevent varicose veins, make sure you use support hose and elevate your legs.
HEMORRHOIDS. These are blood vessels in the anal canal that may become swollen or inflamed. To help prevent hemorrhoids, eat a high fiber diet and drink plenty of water. Over the counter medications are safe to use if they flare up.
CONGESTION. As blood flow is increased to your body’s mucous membranes, including your nose, congestion may occur. You may even find yourself snoring for the first time!
DIZZINESS. Short episodes of dizziness are not unusual as you grow with pregnancy. While moving, change positions slowly, eat plenty of small meals, and fill up on fluids to reduce symptoms. Very frequent episodes should be reported to your doctor.
SHORTNESS OF BREATH AND HEART PALPITATIONS (IRREGULAR HEARTBEATS).
These may occur but usually subside by resting. Severe, persistent symptoms should be reported to your doctor.