DISCOMFORTS
Nausea and vomiting
PROBABLE CAUSE
J. Physiological changes of pregnancy or emotional factors
Heartburn
E. Crowding and decreased motility of stomach with spilling of
stomach contents back into oesophagus with irritation of lining of
oesophagus
Constipation
D. Decreased peristalsis of intestine and decreased tone of
abdominal muscles.
Flatulence
G. Relaxation of bowel; undesirable bacterial action
Backache
C. Postural changes during pregnancy; relaxation or sacroiliac
joints and symphysis pubis; weak abdominal muscles
Varicose veins
A. Standing or sitting for long periods of time; garments that
constrict leg vessels
I.Seepage of fluid through walls of distended veins
L. Tension, circulatory impairment caused by pressure of uterus
on pelvic veins, overstretching of muscles and fascia of legs; lack
of calcium
H. Trichomonas vaginalis, Candida albicans, Gonococcus
organism
K. Dry skin. Irritating materials secreted by skin glands, or
excessive use of soap
B. Pressure of uterus on pelvic veins; constipation
E. Crowding of diaphragm by enlarging uterus
Swelling of feet
Leg cramps
Vaginal infection
Itching
Haemorrhoids
Shortness of breath
SUGGESTIONS FOR PREVENTING OR RELIEVING
10. Eat dry toast or cracker before getting up in the
morning; eat 5 or 6 small meals a day instead of 3 large
ones
6. Avoid fatigue; eat frequent small meals instead of three
large ones; reduce fat intake; antacids only as prescribed by
the LMC
4. Daily exercise; drink plenty of fluids; eat fruits,
vegetables; dark breads, coarse foods; regular time for
elimination
9. Eat small meals; chew food; regular elimination; omit
gas-forming foods from diet
5. Good body alignment; minimise stooping and lifting;
bend at the knees; keeping back straight and feet wide
apart; pelvic rocking exercises, abdominal supports;
adequate rest
1. Elevating legs at right angles several times a day
12. Rest; elevate legs at right angles several times a day
8. Stand up; extend leg with toes pointed toward knee,
ankle flexed; heat and massage to leg
11. Treatment prescribed by the LMC depending on cause,
e.g. Flagyl, Canesten and Gynopevaryl
3. Increase fluid intake; bathe with soda bicarbonate; use a
bland soap or avoid soaps; use oil on skin following bath
2. Relieve constipation
7. Stretch arms above head while lying flat on back