Pregnancy is a wonderful time full of hope, excitement and ever a little trepidation. And as you look forward to the future, it's easy to brush some of your uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms under the carpet. Some. But not all. 

 

To help you get through those pregnancy symptoms, take note of the following:

 

1. Discharge

A pale yellow or white discharge will be a constant factor throughout your pregnancy. It is due to an increased vaginal blood flow and is perfectly ok; however, if it is itchy, burning or starts to smell you should have a chat with your doctor as you might have an infection.

 

Solution

Make use of those sanitary pads in your drawer. And you thought you were done using them for a few months...

 

2. Sweating

You will sweat a lot throughout your pregnancy, and in places you never knew could perspire. This is mainly due to the fact that there is extra blood pumping around your body, increasing your body’s temperature - your sweat is there to cool you down.

 

Solution

Make sure you wear loose clothes made from cotton and stick with layers. Avoid synthetic materials, change your clothes regularly and, if needed, have at least one or two showers a day.

 

 

3. Fatigue

Pregnancy is a huge thing to happen to your body, and not surprisingly, you will be completely and utterly exhausted. And while going to bed earlier, taking naps and even cutting back on some activities for a while, will help, what you eat plays a huge role. 

 

Solution

It is important you eat a healthy diet to help keep your energy levels up and your blood sugar levels even. Things like fresh fruit and vegetables, chicken and fish, whole-grains and nuts are ideal. Skip the caffeine to get over your energy slump and instead opt for water.

 

4. Swollen breasts

During the early days of pregnancy, you may find that your breasts are quite sore and swollen. A common symptom when you’re expecting, it can be uncomfortable and, at times, very painful.

 

Solution

At the end of the day, pop a cold compress or a damp facecloth on your breasts. This can help cool them down and ease any pain. If you are in discomfort during the day, you can pop some cabbage leaves in your bra for extra comfort.

 

 

5. Morning sickness

Morning sickness is a common condition that affects more than half of all women during pregnancy. This feeling of sickness is related to increased oestrogen levels that occur when you’re pregnant. While the name suggests it is only present in the morning and reduces as the day progresses, many women experience it throughout the day.

 

Solution

Try eating five or six small meals a day, rather than three large meals and avoid an empty stomach. If you get a food craving, just go with it, unless you are craving something dangerous of course. Remember to eat fruits and veggies high in water content, dry crackers (tuc, cream crackers, crackerbread) or biscuits in the morning and to drink liquids around ½ hour after eating solid food.

 

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