On the path toward childbirth, you'll encounter a number of ailments that can leave you feeling grouchy and sapped of energy. In your pre-pregnancy days, you could get rid of headaches, colds, and other nuisances with one or more medications. The problem is, such drugs are usually considered off-limits while you're pregnant. Many can have an adverse effect on your unborn baby.
But not all medications pose the same risks. Some are relatively safe, and can be taken in moderation. It's important to realize, however, that some medicinal solutions to common discomforts seem safe, but actually pose a danger. Below, we'll help you sort through them. We'll present five familiar ailments you're likely to experience during your pregnancy, and offer a few proven ways to get rid of them.
1 - Nausea
Nausea stemming from morning sickness affects a large number of women during the first trimester (sometimes, it lasts longer). It is usually accompanied by vomiting. While you may be tempted to ask your obstetrician for medicine to minimize the sensation, he or she is unlikely to prescribe it.
A better solution is to make changes to your eating habits. Rather than following a traditional 3-meal schedule, eat several small meals throughout the day. This will give your body a chance to digest food more easily, and might reduce your nausea.
2 - Colds
Before you became pregnant, the effects of a cold could be addressed with one of several remedies from your medicine cabinet. Most of those options are unavailable, especially during the first trimester. The first three months are the period during which your baby develops the quickest. Most drugs from your medicine cabinet pose their greatest risk to your baby during this time.
Instead, make sure you drink plenty of water and other fluids. Hydration, always important while you're pregnant, is even more so when you're battling a cold since it can reduce your symptoms. You can also use nose sprays to help clear up congested passages.
3 - Headaches
Headaches can occur for a variety of reasons when you're pregnant. For example, getting too little sleep at night can cause a dull throb the following day. Feeling overwhelmed, whether from your growing "to do" lists or the responsibility of being a new mom, can trigger a tension headache. Some types of foods and beverages can also have an effect.
In the past, you may have relied on something containing ibuprofen, such as Motrin, Bayer, or Excedrin IB. When you're expecting, you'll need another remedy. If your head hurts from lack of sleep, get more rest. Doing so may be difficult given your responsibilities, but make it a priority. If stress is the cause of your headache, take steps to reduce your anxiety. A warm bath with candles and your favorite music may be an ideal solution.
4 - Sore Muscles
You're likely to experience sore muscles as your unborn baby develops since the extra weight will place more stress on your body. Your muscles may also become sore from other factors, such as a brisk walk.
The good news is that most of the soreness will dissipate over time (a few days) as your muscles heal themselves. But you can reduce the discomfort in the meantime by exposing the affected area to heat. A warm compress on the area will encourage blood flow, and reduce inflammation.
5 - Persistent Coughing
Most cough medications contain dextromethorphan, an effective cough suppressant. The problem is, dextromethorphan may pose risks. Though clinical studies have produced unclear results, it is telling that many kids drink cough medicine for an instant high. Unless your obstetrician approves your use of cough medications, you and your baby might be better off taking a natural approach.
Steam will help introduce moisture back into your lungs and throat. Unless there is an underlying infection, this may be enough to cure your cough.
Being pregnant can be challenging when you are coping with the five ailments described above. Once your little one is born, however, you're unlikely to remember them.
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