Pregnancy brings many physical and hormonal changes, which can sometimes lead to discomfort. Since medication options may be more limited during this time, it’s helpful to know safe and practical ways to ease common issues. Below is an overview of common pregnancy-related problems, along with strategies and safe remedies to help manage them.
Nausea (aka Morning Sickness)
Although commonly called morning sickness, this pregnancy nausea can happen at any time of day. It is most frequent during the first trimester due to high levels of the hormone hCG, which later stabilizes.
Suggestions
Eat slowly and take small bites. Choose light, frequent meals instead of large ones. Packing small healthy snacks to eat every couple of hours can stave off nausea (eg. carrot sticks, celery and nut spread, crackers and cheese, yoghurt). Avoid greasy, fried, heavily spiced foods, as well as sweets and caffeine. Include more foods rich in vitamin C (fresh fruits, vegetables, juices) and vitamin B (whole grains, dairy, brewer’s yeast, organ meats). A daily vitamin B6 supplement (25mg) may help. Keep plain toast or crackers by your bedside for the morning. Gentle activity, such as walking, after meals can support digestion. If vomiting occurs, sip on clear fluids like broth, ginger ale, sports drinks, or eat your favourite flavour cold jelly (Aka: 'Jell-O'). Seek medical advice if you cannot tolerate liquids for more than 12–24 hours. Warm liquids such as tea, broth, or soup, along with bland foods (bananas, rice, applesauce, baked potatoes), may help once symptoms settle (though liquids with meals may increase acid reflux… read on)
Heartburn / Acid Reflux
Many pregnant women experience heartburn due to hormonal effects, particularly increased progesterone, which relaxes the muscle between the stomach and esophagus.
Suggestions
Eat small, slow meals and chew thoroughly.
Avoid oily or spicy foods.
Don’t mix high-fat and sugary foods in the same meal.
Consider vitamin B-rich foods.
Avoid consuming liquids with meals or lying down immediately after eating.
Talk with your doctor before taking antacids as some versions of these over-the-counter medicines are more compatible with pregnancy than others.
Constipation
Increased progesterone can also slow digestion, leading to constipation.
Suggestions
Drink at least 6–8 glasses of water daily.
Follow a fiber-rich diet.
Exercise regularly, even if it is just a walk after eating.
Avoid stimulant laxatives, which may reduce nutrient absorption and may cause contractions.
Ask your physician about stool softeners if needed.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are common in pregnancy due to increased pressure on the pelvic veins and straining from constipation. They can cause pain, itching, or rectal bleeding.
Suggestions:
Prevent constipation with a high-fiber diet, adequate fluids, and gentle exercise.
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
Rest on your side to reduce pelvic pressure.
Use warm sitz baths to relieve discomfort.
Apply cold compresses or witch hazel pads for soothing relief.
Speak with your doctor before using any creams or medications.
Headaches
Headaches may occur, particularly in the first half of pregnancy, due to hormonal changes, fatigue, or stress.
Suggestions:
Increase hydration - the goal during pregnancy is around 3L a day.
Eat regularly, including healthy snacks between meals.
Rest as much as possible.
Avoid crowded, noisy, or smoke-filled spaces.
Ensure proper ventilation indoors.
Try warm/ice packs on your head or neck
Acetaminophen (paracetamol) may be used if absolutely necessary, but try other non-medicated methods first.
If pain persists despite rest and medication, consult your healthcare provider.
Dental Care
Gum sensitivity is common, but gum disease has been linked with preterm birth. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are recommended, even during pregnancy. It is safer to treat dental issues during pregnancy than to leave them unmanaged.
Other Common Issues and Relief
Fatigue / Insomnia: Add calcium and B vitamins to your diet, exercise moderately, take breaks, enjoy warm baths, or try massage.
Leg or Joint Pain: Rest, maintain posture, stretch, and use heating pads if needed.
Vaginal Discomfort or Discharge: Eat natural yogurt to balance healthy gut bacteria, wear breathable cotton underwear, avoid douching. For suspected yeast infections, consult your doctor before using antifungals.
Swelling (ankles, feet, hands): Elevate feet, rest on your left side, and reduce salt intake.
Anemia: Increase iron-rich foods (red meat, leafy greens, dried fruit, seeds, legumes), continue prenatal vitamins, and take iron supplements if prescribed.
Varicose Veins: Elevate legs, wear support stockings, avoid crossing legs, and walk daily.
Emotional Changes (low mood, reduced libido): Communicate openly with your partner, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support if your mood imbalances becomes severe.
Breast changes: Fullness and tenderness are a normal part of pregnancy. Some people may experience leakage of colostrum (the early stage of breastmilk) during their later pregnancy.
Other FAQs
Hair coloring or perms: Considered safe, however poorly ventilated salons may increase nausea.
Manicures and Pedicures: Safe during pregnancy if done in clean, well-ventilated salons. Avoid strong fumes and consider bringing your own tools; see nail varnish options below.
Regular polish is safe with good ventilation.
Gel polish can be used, but protect hands from UV lamps with sunscreen or gloves.
Acrylic nails should be limited as fumes are stronger; ensure good ventilation if unavoidable.
Non-toxic “pregnancy-safe” polishes (labeled “3-free,” “5-free,” or higher) are a safer alternative.
Painting at home: Only in well-ventilated areas and if truly necessary. Choose low VOC paints when available.
Caffeine: Restrict to below 200mg per day (about 1–2 cups).
Alcohol: Can harm your baby’s development and increases the risk of birth defects and life-long developmental and cognitive issues. The level at which alcohol becomes harmful to the developing baby is unknown. As such it is recommended to avoid alcohol entirely while pregnant.
Urgent dental work: Safe at any stage of pregnancy.
Dental care in general: More frequent cleanings are recommended, as gum health can affect pregnancy outcomes.
X-rays: Dental and medical X-rays are generally avoided in pregnancy unless necessary. If required, proper shielding (such as a lead apron) will be used to protect the baby. Always inform your healthcare provider and dentist that you are pregnant before any imaging.
We hope this information can help you to enjoy this time. Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone- your obstetrician is here to guide and support you every step of the way. If any symptoms become severe, persist, or cause concern, please reach out to us for advice and assistance.
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