The ninth month of pregnancy brings you close to those wonderful and memorable moments of every woman. However, it also the most uncomfortable period complained by a majority of the pregnant woman. Here is a list of health issues reported during the ninth month of pregnancy and the general home remedies that provide you relief from those awful health problems.
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Inconveniences or health problems noticed in ninth month of pregnancy
Indigestion
The fully grown fetus exerts pressure on the stomach causing a decrease in the stomach volume. It often leads to indigestion that in turn leads to other problems such as acidity, gas and bloating. To prevent indigestion in the ninth month of pregnancy it is recommended to take small meals at regular intervals. If indigestion keeps you troubling consider using freshly ground ginger paste in curries or you can even consider having a small piece of ginger in the mouth. Another perfect home remedy to obtain relief from indigestion is jeera water. Boil a small amount of jeera in water and drink the water for relief from bloating and acidity. A Pregnant woman should note that consistent discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen could be a sign of preeclampsia which should be dealt immediately under the guidance of a physician.
Cramps
The extra weight exerted by the fully grown baby is the cause for sharp, agonizing pain in the calf and feet muscles of the pregnant woman. The pain is often felt at the end of the day at bedtime. The excruciating pain may even wake up you in the middle of the night. Gentle leg and foot movements early in the morning every day often give relief from leg cramps. You can even consider stretching the foot and leg or rotating the foot during the day now and then to improve blood circulation that in turn prevents cramps.
Varicose veins and Swelling of extremities (feet and fingers)
Increased body fluid volume is noticed during the pregnancy which increases towards the end of pregnancy. This can result in swelling of ankle and the foot. Standing or sitting for long hours makes the condition worse. Swelling of feet is very common and can be reduced easily by taking rest at least for an hour during the day. Resting the feet at an elevated position during sleep also relieves swelling of feet. Reducing the salt content of the diet also reduces swelling. Avoid carrying heavy weights as it would exert even more weight. It is recommended to consult the obstetrician immediately if you observe sudden swelling of feet, face and fingers as it is a sign of pre-eclampsia (a sudden rise in blood pressure).
Backache
Muscular tissues of the body become soft during pregnancy to support labor. This causes the bones to bear the body weight especially the bones of the lower back causing backache. It may not be possible to treat a backache and the pain in pelvic joints completely during pregnancy but it can be controlled by following appropriate measures such as resting on a flat mattress, avoiding lifting heavy weights, keeping the back straight while sitting by taking appropriate support and by taking sufficient rest. Take a break whenever you feel tired rather than continuing to work for long hours. If the pain is worse consider having a massage. You can even consider practicing gentle exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles. However, practice exercises after consulting your obstetrician.
Constipation
Hormonal change during pregnancy is the major cause of constipation. It can be avoided by making simple changes in your diet plan. Taking fiber-rich foods such as fruits, cereals, vegetables, whole grain bread helps treat constipation. Drink plenty of fluids. Few women become constipated because of taking iron supplements. If iron supplements are troubling, then consult your physician regarding the same for an alternative or if you can stop taking them. Practicing of simple exercises early in the morning also provides relief from constipation.
High blood pressure
The risk of high blood pressure is rare but those with a family history of high blood pressure or pregnant woman at the age of 40 are at high risk. A sudden increase in blood pressure characterized by a severe headache, vision problems, vomiting, pain underneath the ribs is highly dangerous for both the mother and child and has to be treated under the supervision of a physician. Women who are at high risk for high blood pressure should regulate the salt intake and should consider practicing meditation regularly. Lowering the salt intake helps prevent the fluid retention in the body. Meditation provides relief from headaches.
Leaking nipples
Fluid leakage from nipples is very common during the ninth month of pregnancy and nothing much has to be done to regulate it. If the leakage is very bad then, consider using breast pads for absorbing the fluids. However, it is recommended to talk to your doctor if you notice blood leaking from the nipples.
Trouble sleeping
The extra weight of the baby and the hormonal changes together make you feel tired during the ninth month of pregnancy. This can be reduced by taking sufficient rest during the day but, this often causes insomnia i.e. trouble sleeping at nights. To prevent this consider taking rest by lying down rather than going to sleep. Consider watching a movie of your liking or chat with friends to prevent sleeping during daytime. A glass of lukewarm milk before going to bed helps to get good sleep. Avoid taking caffeinated drinks, smoking and alcohol before going to bed as they cause insomnia. Speak to your obstetrician if insomnia is troubling you very badly as it may cause depression which makes the condition worse.
Lastly, the ninth month of pregnancy is very critical period and even minor health changes should not be neglected. A Majority of the health issues that develop during this period prove to be dangerous to both the mother and baby. Consult your midwife immediately if the trouble continues for a long time or keeps repeating.