In the fifth month of pregnancy, you will notice increased activity of the fetus. You will even notice the movements and the little kicks. Your baby is learning the sleep patterns and by the end of this month, the fetus will get into a regular cycle of sleep and activity. In the fifth month of pregnancy, you may also start to notice certain changes in your health few which are very difficult to bear. Some of the health issues noticed in the fifth month of pregnancy are listed below.
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High blood pressure (Pre-eclampsia)
A sudden rise in the blood pressure during the pregnancy is referred to as pre-eclampsia. In few women, it is also associated with accumulation of fluids in the legs, face, and hands (edema) and increased amounts of the protein albumin in the urine. Pre-eclampsia is commonly observed in the third trimester of pregnancy and in very rare conditions it is observed in the second trimester. In severe cases, other symptoms such as blurred vision, headache, vomiting, and pain below the ribs are also observed. Fetal growth also retards in women with high blood pressure. Hence, if you notice high blood pressure in the fifth month of pregnancy it is very important to take appropriate measures to prevent fetal growth retardation.
The risk for high blood pressure is more in women with a family history of high blood pressure, women suffering with gestational diabetes, migraines, obesity, and kidney diseases and in the first pregnancy. In severe conditions, your gynecologist may suggest the use of anti-hypertensives and anti-convulsives depending on the severity of the condition. As you are too far from completion of pregnancy it is very important to take sufficient rest to keep the blood pressure under control.
Nose bleeds
Blood vessels tend to expand during pregnancy so as to provide increased blood supply to the fetus. The blood vessels of the nose are very delicate. The expansion of the blood vessels and the extra pressure put by the increased blood flow causes the blood vessels to rupture and ultimately nosebleeds. Minor nosebleeds are harmless but, it is very inconvenient and uncomfortable. Care has to be taken even when you sneeze or blow your nose.
Bleeding from the nose can be controlled by placing the head in an elevated position at a level higher from the heart. Now, exert pressure on the bleeding nostril by holding the soft portion of the nose with a thumb and index finger. Continue exerting the pressure for up to a second. Do not lift the hand in the middle so as to check if the bleeding has stopped, it would interrupt the blood clotting process and the bleeding may repeat. Application of ice can also help controlling the nose bleeds by constricting the blood vessels.
Do not swallow the blood as it would cause nausea and vomiting that worsens the condition. Nose bleeding generally gets under control within 20 minutes. If does not control, consult your physician immediately. Nose bleeding due to a head injury should be given immediate attention. Similarly, if you experience frequent nose bleeds, inform your physician to receive appropriate treatment for the underlying condition.
Hot flashes
Hot flashes are yet another abnormality observed during pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the second and third trimesters. They usually stay for about ten minutes. Hot flashes are observed in the regions of chest, neck and head. These are caused due to lowered section of the hormone estrogen and it may continue for few months after pregnancy until the hormones get back to normal.
It is not possible to control hot flashes but take measures to make yourself feel comfortable. Wear cotton dress. Stay in a cool room with plenty of air flow. You might experience hot flashes more in the night so, sleep under the fan or in an air-conditioned room to prevent sleep disturbance.
Constipation, gas, and heartburn
Slower digestive system during pregnancy especially, in the second and third trimesters, causes constipation. Inappropriate digestion, in turn, leads to accumulation of gas and bloating. The problem of constipation can be treated naturally by taking fiber rich diet by including more of leafy vegetables, whole grain foods, legumes, and beans. Drinking plenty of water also helps to control constipation. Never hold your bowel movements as it would aggravate the problem of constipation. Practice simple exercises regularly to ease the bowel movements. It should be noted that laxatives and fiber supplements should not be taken during pregnancy so as to control constipation without consulting the physician.
If you are suffering from the problem of gas along with constipation control it by cutting down intake of milk, beans, and carbonated beverages. Consider having small meals to control the accumulation of gas. Eat slowly, chew completely and avoid swallowing air. You may talk to your doctor for medications to obtain relief from gas.
Heartburn is another complaint noticed due to slower digestion. To prevent heartburn avoid taking fried and spicy foods. Cut down your caffeine intake. Consider taking antacids under the guidance of the physician if you are experiencing severe heartburn. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience pain under the ribs or abdominal pain due to the accumulation of gas.
Make a note to discuss any of your problems with the physician or at least share them with your partner and take appropriate measures even before it gets complicated. Sharing your feelings often prevents depression and emotional changes that are noticed during the pregnancy.