Symptoms of pregnancy can vary from person to person. The following are some common discomforts of pregnancy .

Common discomforts during pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting :  About half of pregnant women experience this during the first trimester of pregnancy. However some women experience it throughout pregnancy . It is called morning sickness because it is worse in the morning. Eating small meals several times a day as well as avoiding foods such as spicy or fatty foods can help lessen the symptom.

If vomiting is severe and leads to lose in fluids and weight, it is a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum. This can lead to dehydration. Call your doctor if you experience this.

Hemorrhoids :  This is common in late pregnancy because of increased risk of constipation , increased pressure in the rectum and perineum as well as increased blood volume. Avoiding constipation and straining can help prevent hemorrhoids.

Fatigue :  Pregnant women often feel tired because the body works overtime to provide a nourishing environment  for the fetus. Anemia can also be responsible for fatigue  .

Indigestion and heartburn : This is caused by pressure on the intestines and stomach which inturn pushes stomach content back to the esophagus. This can be prevented by eating small meals throughout the day and avoid laying down  shortly after eating.

Bleeding gums : Increase in blood during pregnancy causes the gums to become on spongy. This  causes them to bleed easily. This symptoms usually disappear  after pregnancy.

Swelling :  Mild swelling is common during pregnancy. However  severe swelling may be a sign of preeclampsia which is marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. You can relieve swelling by lying on the side, elevating the legs, and wearing support hose and comfortable shoes. Call  your doctor if you experience rapid swelling especially of the hands or face, with other symptoms such as headaches and  vision changes.

Pica : This is craving to eat substances other than food such as  coal, dirt or clay. This may be an indication of a  nutritional deficiency.

Varicose veins :  These swollen , purple veins are common in the legs and around the vaginal opening  during late pregnancy.  It is usually caused by increased pressure on the legs and pelvic veins. It is also caused by increased blood flow.

Stretch marks :  Pinkish stretch marks appears on the stomach, breasts, thighs or buttocks. They are usually caused by rapid weight gain  and usually fade away after pregnancy.

Skin changes : Due to fluctuations of hormonal level including hormones that stimulate pigmentation of the skin  skin, brown, blotchy patches may happen on the face, forehead, and/or cheeks. This is often called the mask of pregnancy  or chloasma . It usually disappears soon after delivery.Using sunscreen when outside can reduce the amount of darkening that happens.

Other discomforts during pregnancy include :

• Headaches
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Congested or bloody  nose
• Backache
• Yeast infection