Besides the most common signs of pregnancy, women can experience other early pregnancy signs.
Most women go through a range of emotions during pregnancy, from excitement to awe to sheer terror. But one emotion that many experience early in their pregnancies is worry. Wondering what all the fuss is about, you may be asking yourself if there’s any point in worrying about something that may or may not happen. The good news is that there are plenty of early pregnancy signs that can help you ease your mind and prepare for the big day. And by following these signs, you’ll be one step closer to a healthy and happy pregnancy!
During pregnancy the uterus and breasts increase in size and weight; furthermore, hormones released during this time loosen ligaments that attach the spine to the pelvic bone. Because of this, back pains are frequent early pregnancy signs. These pains can be relieved by resting, warm baths, and/or massages; if the pain is severe and persistent, doctors may be able to prescribe painkillers. Women should not take anything before first checking with their doctors.
Early Pregnancy Signs
Another consequence of the extra weight being carried around during pregnancy is the occurrence of leg cramps; some experts claim that leg cramps could also be due to changes in the blood circulation in the legs. These cramps are felt most often in the second and third trimesters and can be relieved by stretching, walking, warm baths, and/or massages.
The growing uterus also puts pressure on the veins that come up from the legs, causing the accumulation of fluid around the ankles. This accumulation leads to edema (swelling), which can often be relieved by elevating the ankles while seated, wearing waist-high support tights and/or exercising.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is also one of the early pregnancy signs. Essentially, a woman feels “pins and needles” in her hands, accompanied often by pain, numbness, and weakness in the fingers. What is actually happening is that fluid builds up around the wrists and the nerves that run to the hand muscles and skin become compressed. If the pain does not go away, a doctor may suggest a molded wrist splint.
Another of the early pregnancy signs caused by the growing uterus is varicose veins, which are enlarged veins in the legs. Pressure is put on the veins in the pelvis and legs and hormones cause the walls of blood vessels to relax, thereby causing the development of varicose veins. Women can prevent their development by gently exercising on a regular basis, not crossing their legs while seated, putting their feet up often, and putting on support tights or stockings as soon as they wake up. More often than not, varicose veins disappear after the birth of the baby.
Hemorrhoids can also be one of the early pregnancy signs, occurring as a result of constipation, caused by changes in the circulation of blood around a woman’s body. Women can try to avoid getting hemorrhoids by trying to avoid getting constipated. Relief can come from over-the-counter creams and/or taking warm baths. More often than not in this case as well, hemorrhoids will disappear after the birth of the baby; it may be necessary, however, to surgically remove them.
Congratulations on your upcoming pregnancy! Now that you are aware of the signs of early pregnancy, you’re well on your way to a smooth and uneventful journey. However, no matter how prepared you are, there’s always the chance of something going wrong. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips on how to cope with the early stages of pregnancy. Whether it’s dealing with morning sickness, staying on a healthy diet, or focusing on your mental health, we hope these tips will help you get through this phase of your life with as much ease as possible. Let us know if you have any questions!
