Being in good physical/ mental condition before the pregnancy and having a great diet/ preconceptual nutritional status may help with some of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy like nausea and vomiting but for the most part most pregnancy symptoms have a cause. Understanding the many hormonal/ emotional and physical changes a pregnant woman experiences helps symptom control by learning common comfort measures that can be taken.
For example round ligament or broad ligament pain is very common during pregnancy. Wearing proper fitting arch supporting shoes, a good supportive bra, and using good body mechanics can go a long way in preventing some of the common back pains and ligament pains.
Another common symptom is cramping. Many pregnant women forget they are not only replacing the fluid they use during the day but must make fresh water (amniotic fluid) around the baby every day. Often pregnant women underestimate the amount of fluid they need a day and have cramping that is caused by dehydration. Assuring adequate fluid intake daily can help prevent this common complaint.
Some communities offer early pregnancy classes to discuss the changes a woman goes thru during her pregnancy. Most pregnancy books also cover the common discomforts of pregnancy and common relieve measures and discuss when the symptoms are more severe and medical attention should be sought.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.