Your health matters the most when you are pregnant. You may face many health issues which are not dangerous but need immediate attention. Most of the women suffer from health issues during some point in their pregnancy. So, don't worry! You are not alone!

Leg Cramps

Let us discuss some of the issues:

Leg cramp is a sudden painful sensation in the legs. It can be mild as well as severe and usually happen at night. These are caused probably when your leg muscles get tired by carrying your extra weight. It may start during early pregnancy and might get worse as you proceed with your pregnancy.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Make sure to stay hydrated, drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day.
• Eat a balanced diet with adequate amount of calcium, potassium and magnesium.
• Try to avoid sitting with your legs crossed for long period of time.
• Before going to bed, stretch your calf muscles several times.
• Walking can also relieve some pain.
• Do some stretching exercises to keep your muscles more elastic.

Frequent urination

Many of you might have noticed a frequent need to pass urine these days. It is the most common early sign of pregnancy! Frequent urination is mainly caused due to the hormonal changes that cause blood to flow fast through the kidneys. Over the course of pregnancy, it persists due to the increase pressure on your bladder from growing uterus.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Try to skip diuretic beverages like coffee, tea.
• Don't dehydrate yourself thinking it will improve the situation. Make sure you are drinking 8-12 glasses of water a day to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
• You can cut back intake of fluids in the hours before going to bed.
• Lean forward while you urinate, this will ensure that your bladder is totally emptied each time.

Heartburn and indigestion

Heartburn is a burning and uncomfortable sensation in the chest or throat during pregnancy.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Avoid carbonated drinks, caffeine, acidic, spicy, fried and fatty foods.
• Try to eat small meals throughout the day.
• Don't lie down immediately after a big meal.
• Avoid fluid intake during your meals, take a sip if necessary.
• Avoid tight fitting clothes around your waist or tummy.
• Ask your doctor to give you over-the-counter antacid containing magnesium and calcium.

Blocked nose

Most of the pregnant women have congestion or runny nose during pregnancy. It is due to high level of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy which causes mucous membranes of the nose to swell.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids.
• Saline nasal drops or spray can help to blow your nose more easily.
• Can use of vaporizer or humidifier and keep it near you while sleeping.
• Steam inhalation or warm shower can also provide temporarily relief.
• Consult your doctor if your nosebleeds.

Varicose veins/Swollen leg veins

Varicose veins are swollen bluish veins that appear on the legs during pregnancy. It is the weight of the uterus placing pressure on the veins of your legs making them to swell.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Brisk walking can help your blood circulation.
• Avoid crossing your legs while sitting.
• Make sure you do not sit or stand for long period of time.
• Try to sleep on your left side and raise your feet using a pillow.
• Eat balanced diet with daily dose of vitamin C which will keep the veins healthy.

Backache

About 80% of the women experience back pain during pregnancy. It is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. Though it is not dangerous, still it deserves attention.

What you can do to avoid it?

• Avoid standing and sitting for too long, take enough breaks by walking and stretching.
• Don't cross your legs while sitting, raise your feet instead and keep your back straight.
• Use a firm mattress.
• Make sure you use good quality chairs that provide adequate support to your back, arms, and should have a firm cushion.
• Avoid high heels and wear comfortable shoes.