Chapter 13: Adaptations to Pregnancy: Common Discomforts of Pregnancy Flashcards
take a tablespoon of cream before meals if problem is not already present
heartburn
drink at least 8 glasses of liquids each day (water, juice, milk but not coffee, tea, carbonated drinks). after drinking diuretic beverages, add a glass of water
constipation
to relieve problem, extend the affected leg, keeping the knee straight. bend the foot toward the body or ask someone to assist. if alone, stand and apply pressure on the affected leg with the knee straight
leg cramps
eat small meals every 2-3 hours, and avoid fatty, acidic, or spicy foods
heartburn
avoid constipation to prevent straining that causes or worsens problem
hemorrhoids
use self-care measures that generally are as effective as using laxatives, but do not interfere with absorption of nutrients or lead to laxative dependency
constipation
decrease fluids in the evening but drink adequate amounts during the day
urinary frequency
rest frequently with the legs elevated above the level of the hips
varicosities
drink fluids separately from meals. try small amounts of ice chips, water, and clear liquids like gelatin or popsicles. avoid coffee.
nausea and vomiting
to pick up objects, squat rather than bend at the waist
backache
perform exercises such as tailor sitting, shoulder circling, and pelvic rocking, which strengthen the back and prepare for labor
backache
lie on your side with the hips elevated on a pillow
hemorrhoids
apply heat and lie on the right side to relieve the pain
round ligament pain
bend toward the pain, squat, or bring the knees up to the chest to relieve pain by relaxing the ligament
round ligament pain
try swimming, riding a stationary bicycle, or taking a brisk walk of at least 1 mile per day to stimulate peristalsis and improve muscle tone
constipation
restrict cheese consumption
constipation
avoid high-heeled shoes because they increase lordosis
backache
eliminate or curtail smoking and drinking coffee and carbonated beverages
heartburn
avoid constricting clothing and crossing the legs at the knees, which impedes blood return from the legs
varicosities
establish regular pattern for elimination at same time each day. one hour after meals is ideal to take advantage of gastrocolic reflex.
constipation
take deep breaths and sip water to help relieve the burning sensation
heartburn
do not make sudden movements or position changes
round ligament pain
wear support hose or elastic stockings that reach above the problem. apply them before getting out of bed each morning
varicosities
use only antacids suggested by your care provider, but avoid those that are high in sodium, which cause fluid retention. antacids high in calcium provide relief but may cause rebound hyperacidity. liquid antacids may be more effective.
heartburn
maintain correct posture: head up, shoulders back
backache
if working in one position for prolonged periods, walk around for a few minutes at least every 2 hours
varicosities
walk or sit upright for 1-2 hours after meals
heartburn
use a footrest or place your feet on a folded towel during elimination to provide comfort and decrease straining
constipation
ask your healthcare provider if vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) would be helpful
nausea and vomiting
avoid bending over
heartburn
to relieve existing discomfort, take frequent, tepid baths. apply cool witch hazel compresses or anesthetic ointments
hemorrhoids
try foods containing ginger or peppermint, or combine salty and tart foods like potato chips and lemonade.
nausea and vomiting
if pain persists or bleeding occurs, call your healthcare provider
hemorrhoids
eat small amounts of carbohydrate and protein foods every 2-3 hours and a total of 5 or 6 small meals
nausea and vomiting
try chewing gum
heartburn
avoid excessive amounts of foods high in phosphorus. check with your healthcare provider about taking additional calcium or magnesium
leg cramps
add foods high in fiber (unpeeled fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain bread or cereals, bran muffins, oatmeal, baked potatoes with skins, dried beans, fruit juices). four pieces of fruit plus a large salad provide enough fiber for 1 day.
constipation
take prenatal vitamins at bedtime because may increase problem if taken in the morning
nausea and vomiting
reduce intake of sweets, which increase bacterial growth in the intestine and can lead to flatulence
constipation
avoid caffeine, which is a natural diuretic
urinary frequency
increase protein intake and eat a protein snack before bedtime
nausea and vomiting
avoid stretching and twisting at the same time. when getting out of bed, turn to the side without twisting and then get up slowly
round ligament pain
when sitting, use foot supports, arm rests, and pillows behind the back
backache
use good body mechanics, and avoid strenuous exercise
round ligament pain
notify your healthcare provider for severe (problem) or signs of dehydration (dry, cracked lips; elevated pulse; fever; concentrated urine)
nausea and vomiting
rest more frequently and take naps, if possible
nausea and vomiting
do not lift heavy objects
backache
wear loose-fitting clothes
heartburn
avoid fried, greasy, fatty, or spicy foods or those with strong odors. instead try bland foods, which may be more easily tolerated.
nausea and vomiting
do not gain excess weight
backache
check with your primary caregiver before taking any herbal remedies
nausea and vomiting
use an acupressure band that applies pressure over a point approximately three fingerbreadths above the wrist crease on the inner arm
nausea and vomiting
Eat dry crackers or toast before arising in the morning; then get out of bed slowly.
nausea and vomiting
perform Kegel exercises, repeating the contraction-relaxation cycle 30 times per day
urinary frequency
do not eat or drink just before bedtime, and sleep with an extra pillow
heartburn
do not discontinue taking iron supplements if prescribed. if problem persists, consult your healthcare provider
constipation
to prevent problem, elevate the legs often during the day to improve circulation
leg cramps
