Being pregnant is a beautiful experience which allows you to nurture a tiny human inside you, and give birth to them. However, like all good things, it can be tough at times, which takes a toll on you.
As your belly grows to accommodate the little being inside, your muscles and spine are put under additional strain. And as the hormone, relaxin, is released, to prepare your body for childbirth, you can become highly unstable and injury-prone.
Let’s go through some of the ways in which you can treat the aches and wounds you get during this time!
Bruises and Scrapes
Clear out any minor scrapes with soap and water, or by using an antiseptic wash. Then, cover it up with a bandage. However, if you notice any unexplained bruising, contact your doctor right away.
Aching Feet and Blisters
As your body grows, you tend to get swellings in your feet. This happens quite frequently in your third trimester, when the rate of blood flow from your lower body and back to your heart slows down. You start retaining fluids as your blood vessels dilate.
Reduce the intensity of the swelling by drinking a lot of water and avoiding salty food, as these habits remove body fluids. Additionally, change your position every now and then and avoid crossing your legs. Keep your feet at an elevation and lie down on your left when you sleep. All these habits will enhance your blood flow and prevent the swelling from getting worse.
You shouldn’t disturb your blister as it protects your skin. It will eventually dry out and heal on its own. You can always apply moleskin bandage to protect it from contact and help it heal faster.
Back Aches
This pain is associated with the additional weight you’re carrying. You can alleviate it by taking certain precautions, though. These include regular back stretches and warm compressions, to reduce the inflammations. Additionally, you can use a maternity belt or a lumbar pillow, for abdominal and back support respectively.
Ordinary Aches and Pains
While you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to avoid over-the-counter medication when you’re in pain. Always consult your doctor before taking a painkiller, as certain medications can be dangerous to the life of your unborn child. For instance, aspirin may cause birth defects or delivery complications. So, you need to know which medicines are safe for the two of you.
Take first aid training courses, offered in our centers across British Columbia, to get hands-on experience on how to deal with your minor scrapes and injuries, as well as manage nausea and vomiting. These programs will help you have a smooth pregnancy with minimal pain and discomfort.
Contact us now for further details!
