Pregnancy can be a beautiful time for a woman- she’s radiant, glowing, and her body becomes a living testament to the wonders of nature and the circle of life. At least this is what we have been led to believe… But, if you’ve ever been pregnant or around a pregnant woman for a long time, you know that pregnancy isn’t all goddess vibes and dreamy plans for the baby. Experiencing the worst pregnancy symptoms, fluctuating mood, feeling nauseous all the time, and whatnot. You are not alone. Every woman experiences the same.

Most pregnant women experience a host of unpleasant pregnancy symptoms and side effects and spend a majority of their pregnancies feeling somewhere between uncomfortable and miserable. Mamas-to-be are often left wondering what they can do for relief so they can get back to enjoying, or at least tolerating, the remainder of their pregnancies.

This is why we have compiled a list of the most common pregnancy ailments and some tried-and-true remedies to help alleviate them. Hopefully, these make “get well soon” come even sooner!

Nausea

Nausea is one of the most common and most debilitating and worst pregnancy symptoms. Although it’s often referred to as “morning sickness”, moms-to-be will tell you that it can strike at any time of the day or night. Some women only feel mildly nauseous in the first trimester; others vomit multiple times a day throughout their entire pregnancies. No matter the extremity of your nausea, if you experience this symptom you are likely to seek relief.

If you are looking for a natural remedy, many women swear by ginger root or peppermint. There are many different ways you could incorporate these into your diet- candies/lozenges, teas, ginger ale, or peppermint oil are all great examples. Instead of eating three large meals a day, try eating more frequently and in smaller portions. Morning sickness is likely to strike when you have an empty stomach so keep snacks handy and try to eat a few bites whenever you start to feel queasy.

If you want medication for your nausea, ask your doctor about vitamin b-6 and the sleep aid, Unisom. Both are over-the-counter pills that OBGYNs frequently recommend for treating nausea in pregnant women. But before taking any medication, over-the-counter or prescription, consult your doctor to make sure it is a safe option for you. If your nausea is causing you to lose weight or become dehydrated, reach out to your doctor or midwife immediately. 

Cravings and Food Aversions

Another weird pregnancy side-effect that often accompanies nausea is a temporary change in food preferences. Many women experience cravings (a strong desire for a particular food) and/or food aversions (a repulsion to a food, usually because of its smell or texture). It can be jarring when a food you used to love suddenly makes you gag or when you can’t get enough of food you never cared for before your pregnancy.

But these are normal pregnancy symptoms and may be caused by the fluctuating hormones in your body and your increased sense of smell. How can you get relief? Cater to your new tastes as much as you can. Indulge in your cravings if they’re healthy; treat yourself in smaller portions if your cravings are less-than-healthy.

Tip:

Avoid foods that trigger your nausea. If being around a certain food is unavoidable, you can rub a small amount of peppermint oil on your upper lip to help lessen the effects of triggering smells.

If you’re suddenly repulsed by a portion of food that once served as a major source of nutrients for you (i.e. meat for protein). Find a substitute you can tolerate (i.e. tofu, beans, or nuts). Lastly, make healthy swaps when possible. Craving shrimp fried rice? Swap the white rice for brown. Craving strawberry ice cream? See if fresh strawberries and whipped cream will satisfy you! Lastly, try to remember that these food preferences are temporary.

If all you can stomach is crackers and cheese, know that it will likely only last a few months as most severe aversions lessen around the second trimester. You’ll have plenty of time to get your nutrient-rich diet back on track before the baby is born. If you are craving non-food items, consult your doctor as you may have a nutrient deficiency. Otherwise, indulge mindfully!

Exhaustion

Exhaustion is a common pregnancy symptom, especially in the first and third trimesters. Adjust your bedtime and nap when you can. If you don’t have time to nap, at least sit and take a quick break several times throughout the day to help ease your fatigue. Making a baby is hard work and your body needs all the rest it can get.

Other remedies: hydrate as often as you can (water with electrolytes may be especially helpful), eat healthy, energizing foods, and caffeinate lightly (less than 150 mg per day is usually recommended for pregnant women). Lastly, try to get some light exercise or outdoor time. A brisk walk in the sun may help your body produce more endorphins and help alleviate some exhaustion. 

Back and Belly Pains

Expectant bellies are heavy and this puts a lot of strain on an expectant mom’s back and abdomen! Invest in a pregnancy pillow to help you get some quality rest at night and a belly band to help distribute the weight more evenly when you are on your feet during the day.

Submerge your body in a pool or large tub for instant relief since water makes the pull of gravity feel lighter. (Avoid jacuzzis as they’re often too hot and germy to be safe for pregnant women). If you can afford it, ask your doctors if they have a recommendation for prenatal massage or acupuncture. Many pregnant women feel much better after a session with a professional masseuse!

Read More: How To Make Newborn Sleep Schedule

Additional Tips

1. One of the best tips we can offer expectant mamas is simply to accept help when friends, family, or your partner offer it to you. It can be difficult to ask for help if you’re stubborn. But if you have a good support system. Let them help you when you feel sick or overwhelmed and outsource your tasks as much as you can. If you don’t have people nearby you can rely on. Research resources in your area to help pregnant women (i.e. food banks, support groups, diaper and formula drives. And expectant mother parking spots at stores).

2. Meet other pregnant women and swap stories. Misery loves company and talking to someone who understands your situation will always make you feel better.

3. Lastly, ask your doctor about mental health resources if you are feeling anxious or depressed during your pregnancy. Most doctors have a variety of resources ready for pregnant mothers and many are free or affordable. Overall, try to enjoy your pregnancy as much as you can.

4. Take pictures of your changing body and videos of your tummy when the baby kicks.

5. Worst Pregnancy symptoms may feel like it goes on forever but you might miss it when it’s gone. Take care of yourself with all these tips and try to enjoy the ride. Your baby will be here before you know it!