Pregnancy can be a time filled with joy – and, like many women, you may experience some physical complaints like pregnancy cramps during that period. The list below covers some of the most common problems pregnant women experience, along with tips for how to manage them. Please discuss these problems with your healthcare professional and, confirm the value of the tips provided for your particular condition.

Pregnancy cramps

If you have painful muscle contractions in your calves, especially at night, here is what you can do:¹

• Massage the affected muscles
• Walk around for a minute or two once the pain has eased to improve circulation
• Eat more foods that contain calcium, such as milk and dairy products
• Take calcium supplements (prescribed by your doctor)

Oedema

If your feet are swelling, keep your legs elevated when you are at rest.

Varicose Veins

If you notice enlarged, protruding, bluish veins, particularly in the legs, here’s what you can do:³

• Wear elastic stockings
• Sit when you do not have to stand
• Elevate your legs when at rest

Sweating

If you have perspiration even after very little exertion, or waking up at night feeling hot and sweaty, try to wear loose cotton clothes. And always remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.⁴

Rash

Red rash usually in sweaty skin folds, such as under the breasts⁵. Make sure to:

• Wash the affected areas often and with unperfumed soap; dry thoroughly afterwards
• Wear loose cotton clothing
• Soothe the affected area with calamine lotion

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a nutrition advisor for any specific health and wellness concerns or questions.

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References:

1. Young G, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane database of systematic reviews. 2002(1).

2. Watanabe Y, Koshiyama M, Yanagisawa N. Treatment of leg and foot edema in women. Women’s Health—Open Journal. 2017;3(2):69-74.

3. GREENSTONE SM, HERINGMAN EC, MASSELL TB. Management of varicose veins during pregnancy. Calif Med. 1957 Dec;87(6):365-7. PMID: 13489493; PMCID: PMC1512200.

4. Van Hoey N. Dehydration in Outpatients: Assessments, Risks and Treatment Options.

5. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy?utm_source=redirect&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=otn. Accessed on 26th November 2022