Pregnancy can be a very exciting time for many women, but it can also be quite frustrating and uncomfortable. Your body can go through a great many changes very quickly, and you may find yourself dealing with more than one new problem. Aside from well-known problems like constipation and morning sickness, many pregnant women find themselves also besieged by perhaps less serious conditions like swelling and itching. Fortunately, most forms of pregnancy discomfort can be successfully dealt with. You may sometimes find that one remedy works for more than one condition.
Swelling is one of the main sources of discomfort during pregnancy, and many women find that their feet and ankles swell up, sometimes even increasing a whole shoe size. While this can be uncomfortable, it can also be discouraging when you can no longer wear your favorite shoes. However, there are some things you can do to help alleviate the swelling. Try to elevate your feet as much as possible and drink lots of water so your body doesn’t feel the need to retain it. If the swelling persists or gets worse, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. They may prescribe water pills, but make sure to follow their advice and only take them as directed.
Pregnancy itching can be a very uncomfortable condition for some women, especially in the later months of pregnancy. Discomfort can range from mild to severe, and sometimes the temptation to scratch the itchiness is almost too great. There are a variety of effective ways to treat pregnancy itching. A good natural remedy is to grind up butea seeds, mix with lemon and apply to the affected area. The same thing can be done with linseed oil poultice.
There are a variety of over-the-counter topical ointments that can help you minimize pregnancy itching. Look for those containing hydrocortisone. They can provide almost instant relief. Antihistamines can also be used, but check with your doctor before taking any drug, whether it is over-the-counter or a prescription. Sometimes, a warm bath is the most pleasant way to deal with itchiness. There are a few things you can do to ease the itchiness of your eczema flare-up. Avoid using salt or anything that may dry out your skin. Instead, use fragrant oils, baking soda, or oatmeal in tepid water for an instantly soothing experience. Be sure to dry the affected areas very gently without scratching and rubbing. Most importantly, try your best not to scratch. The more you scratch, the more you irritate the skin, leading to more itchiness.
Most women experience some level of discomfort during pregnancy, but if you know what to expect, you can manage these problems more effectively. Always remember that gentle, natural remedies are usually the best option, and consult your doctor if you have any questions or doubts about anything. This is especially important if you are thinking about taking any kind of remedy, whether it is herbal or chemical. You want to do everything you can to keep yourself and your baby safe and healthy.
