Pregnancy is a magical experience for a woman, but it is also fraught with challenges and risks. As you gain weight, your centre of gravity changes and your body misses out on balance.
The load on your legs and feet can make them ache. Moreover, your hormones relax the ligaments in pelvic joints, which can cause back pain. The aches and pains increase as your pregnancy progresses. However, you cannot pop a painkiller randomly or try an alternative therapy without checking with your gynaecologist.
But it does not mean that you should suffer in silence because pregnancy is challenging enough. You can address your aches and pains safely with the right approach. Here are a few expert-recommended tips to keep them at bay.
Maintain good posture
As your pregnancy progresses, the baby’s growth shifts your centre of gravity forward. You may compensate by leaning back without realizing that your posture is completely wrong. A bad posture can strain your lower back muscles and exert immense pressure on your knees.
Correcting your posture is the best solution, so you must follow a few rules, such as standing up straight and tall, keeping your shoulders back and relaxed, and holding your chest high. Avoid locking your knees, and use a wide stance for better support.
Also, take time for frequent breaks if you must stand for a prolonged time. Maintaining a good sitting posture is equally vital to avoid aches and pains during the later trimesters.
Invest in the right gear
Besides addressing your posture problems, you must invest in the right gear to keep pregnancy pains at bay. Low-heeled shoes with good arch support are ideal for supporting your back and legs.
Avoid high heels because they shift your balance forward, cause pain and elevate the risk of falls. Wearing a maternity support belt is an option if you are comfortable with it. You can also invest in ergonomic furniture to support your back while sitting for long hours. Consider it a small price for your comfort during pregnancy.
Avoid medication
You may want to use medication to deal with aches and pains during pregnancy. Most medicines may have some impact on the fetus, so it is best to avoid anything that isn’t necessary.
In fact, medicines like Tylenol that were once considered safe for pregnant women are now under the lens for increasing autism risks in unborn babies. You can check facts on Tylenol autism legal action to learn more about the potential outcomes of the medicine during pregnancy.
Seek recommendations for alternatives, such as chiropractic care and aromatherapy, to address the problem safely. Massage and hot and cold compresses may also help. But you must get these therapies only from an expert.
Sleep on your side
Women often pay attention to their sitting, standing, and lifting postures. Surprisingly, the way you sleep also affects your chances of experiencing aches and pains during pregnancy.
The straight lying position can aggravate your woes during the last trimester when your body changes. Sleeping on your side is far better than lying down on your back.
You can bend one or both knees for more comfort. Using support pillows between your bent knees, behind your back, and under your abdomen can also help. You should get enough rest in the best position to minimize aches.
Be physically active
Regular physical activity keeps you healthy and enables you to maintain an optimal weight during pregnancy. It can also boost the strength of your back and legs, making it easier for them to bear the load of your growing body. But you must discuss your options with your healthcare provider before jumping in.
Ideally, you should take it easy and stick with gentle workouts such as walking and water exercises. Yoga and stretching are also ideal for pregnant women as they maintain flexibility without causing overexertion. Stress can be another factor, so managing it can help you deal with the aches and pains of pregnancy.
Being pregnant is a blessing, but it brings a fair share of challenges for women. As your baby grows, your body may have a tough time bearing the extra load.
Not surprisingly, most women suffer from unexplained aches and pains during the second and third trimesters. While you must avoid medicines to ensure a healthy baby, it is vital to address these woes to have a comfortable and happy experience.
Fortunately, you can beat them easily with the right approach. Follow these simple tips to cruise through your pregnancy without pain and painkillers.
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