Pregnancy discomforts



Pregnancy discomforts







This table lists common discomforts associated with pregnancy and suggestions for the patient on how to prevent and manage them.









































Discomfort Patient teaching
Urinary frequency

  • Void as necessary.
  • Avoid caffeine.
  • Perform Kegel exercises.
Fatigue

  • Try to get a full night’s sleep.
  • Schedule a daily rest time.
  • Maintain good nutrition.
Breast tenderness

  • Wear a supportive bra, especially during sleep if breast tenderness interferes with sleep.
Vaginal discharge

  • Wear cotton underwear.
  • Avoid tight-fitting pantyhose.
  • Bathe daily.
Backache

  • Avoid standing for long periods.
  • Apply local heat, such as a heating pad (set on low) or a hot water bottle. Make sure to place a towel between the heat source and the skin to prevent burning.
  • Stoop to lift objects—don’t bend.
Round ligament pain

  • Slowly rise from a sitting position.
  • Bend forward to relieve pain.
  • Avoid twisting motions.
Constipation

  • Increase fiber intake in the diet.
  • Set a regular time for bowel movements.
  • Drink more fluids, including water and fruit juices (unless contraindicated). Avoid caffeinated drinks.
Hemorrhoids

  • Rest on the left side with the hips and lower extremities elevated to provide better oxygenation to the placenta and fetus.
  • Avoid constipation.
  • Apply witch hazel pads to the hemorrhoids.
  • Get adequate exercise.
  • Take sitz baths with warm water as often as needed to relieve discomfort.
  • Apply ice packs for reduction of swelling, if preferred over heat.
Varicosities

  • Walk regularly.
  • Rest with the feet elevated daily.
  • Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
  • Avoid crossing the legs.
  • Avoid wearing constrictive knee-high stockings; wear support stockings instead.
  • Stay within recommended weight gain range during pregnancy.
Ankle edema

  • Avoid standing for long periods.
  • Rest with the feet elevated.
  • Avoid wearing garments that constrict the lower extremities.
Headache

  • Avoid eyestrain.
  • Rest with a cold cloth on the forehead.
Leg cramps

  • Straighten the leg and dorsiflex the ankle.
  • Avoid pointing the toes.
  • Rest frequently with feet elevated.

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Jul 26, 2016 | Posted by in NURSING | Comments Off on Pregnancy discomforts

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