“Some people say there are three genders – male, female and pregnant,” says Dawn Hallman, director of the Dallas Association for Parent Education. The demands on a pregnant woman’s body, and the accompanying aches and pains, can change her whole outlook on life. For the common, nonserious discomforts of pregnancy, she offers simple at-home remedies to help women feel like themselves again.
- Nausea: Sea-Bands, peppermint and/or a cold soda can on the back of the neck.
- Heartburn: Chew gum or suck on a peppermint; don’t eat too soon before bed; elevate the headboard or mattress; stay away from caffeine and carbonation.
- Backaches: Put a pillow between the legs and/or do pelvic tilts on hands and knees.
- High blood pressure: Do whatever you can to relax; blow bubbles; drink more water; eat things high in protein.
- Hemorrhoids: Avoid standing for long periods of time.
- Leg cramps: Some people find relief by pinching their upper lip; stand up if it happens while you’re lying down but avoid pointing your toes.
- Trouble urinating: Lift up and hold your belly while sitting.
- Yeast infection: Eat yogurt with active ingredients.
- Increase in shoe size: Buy new shoes and bigger shoes.
- Lack of energy: Rub ears anywhere from lobe to top of ear.
- Trouble falling asleep: Avoid screens; turn off the TV; stay off Pinterest; read a real book; ask your partner to rub your back; take a bath or something else quiet.
Hallman stresses pregnant women should not take even simple products like aspirin or St. John’s wort without first talking to their physician.
