Pregnancy is a beautiful, transformative experience—but let’s be honest, it can also come with a laundry list of symptoms that range from mildly uncomfortable to downright overwhelming. Whether you're a first-time parent or adding another little one to your family, it's helpful to know what you're feeling is normal and also manageable.
Below, we will explore some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and some simple, safe remedies and tools to help ease the journey.
Below, we will explore some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and some simple, safe remedies and tools to help ease the journey.
1. Constipation
Why it happens: Hormonal shifts slow digestion and the growing uterus adds pressure on the intestines.
Remedies:
2. Heartburn
Why it happens: Progesterone relaxes the esophageal sphincter, and your expanding belly pushes on your stomach.
Remedies:
3. Nausea (Morning Sickness)
Why it happens: Hormonal changes, especially hCG spikes in the first trimester.
Remedies:
4. Breast Tenderness & Pain
Why it happens: pregnancy hormones stimulate breasts and cause the milk glands inside them to grow
Remedies:
5. Insomnia
Why it happens: Discomfort, stress, hormonal changes.
Remedies:
6. General Discomfort & Round Ligament Pain
Why it happens: Your body is stretching to make room for baby.
Remedies:
7. Cravings
What they may mean: Sometimes it's your body’s way of signaling a nutrient need. Other times, it’s emotional.
Alternatives:
8. Teeth/Gum Sensitivity & Pain
Why it happens: Hormonal changes increase blood flow and gum sensitivity. It could also mean that your baby is taking all of your calcium and you need to increase your intake through food or a supplement.
Remedies:
9. Lack of Energy
Why it happens: Increased blood volume and physical demands can drain your energy.
Remedies:
10. Low Iron
Symptoms: Fatigue, dizziness, paleness
Remedies:
11. Swelling (Especially in Feet & Ankles)
Why it happens: Fluid retention and circulation changes
Remedies:
12. Heaviness
Why it happens: Your belly is growing—and so is the strain on your back and core
Remedies:
13. Mood Swings
Why it happens: Hormonal surges + physical changes + life transitions = emotional rollercoaster
Remedies:
14. Pre-Pregnancy Mental Illness
Why it’s crucial: Pregnancy can amplify pre-existing conditions.
Remedies:
Why it happens: Hormonal shifts slow digestion and the growing uterus adds pressure on the intestines.
Remedies:
- Increase fiber intake (fruits, veggies, whole grains)
- Stay hydrated
- Gentle stretching and movement
- Consider a magnesium supplement or lotion/spray (with your provider’s approval)
2. Heartburn
Why it happens: Progesterone relaxes the esophageal sphincter, and your expanding belly pushes on your stomach.
Remedies:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods
- Sleep propped up slightly
- Sip water between meals, not during
3. Nausea (Morning Sickness)
Why it happens: Hormonal changes, especially hCG spikes in the first trimester.
Remedies:
- Ginger tea, ginger ale or ginger candies
- B6 supplements (ask your OB)
- Crackers by the bedside
- Acupressure wristbands
4. Breast Tenderness & Pain
Why it happens: pregnancy hormones stimulate breasts and cause the milk glands inside them to grow
Remedies:
- Wear more comfortable, supportive bras
- Cold compress to ease aches and soreness
- Warm showers to relax muscle tissue
- Be gentle while showering, dressing and intimacy
5. Insomnia
Why it happens: Discomfort, stress, hormonal changes.
Remedies:
- A pregnancy pillow for full-body support
- Magnesium lotion to calm the nervous system
- Limit screen time before bed
- Use a weighted blanket (as long as it’s not too heavy and doesn’t trap heat)
6. General Discomfort & Round Ligament Pain
Why it happens: Your body is stretching to make room for baby.
Remedies:
- Daily stretching
- Chiropractor visits with someone trained in prenatal care
- Warm baths with Epsom salts
- Belly bands or kinesiology tape for support
7. Cravings
What they may mean: Sometimes it's your body’s way of signaling a nutrient need. Other times, it’s emotional.
Alternatives:
- Instead of ice cream: Try frozen banana blended with nut butter
- Instead of chips: Crunchy roasted chickpeas or air-popped popcorn
- Instead of soda: Sparkling water with a splash of juice
- Tip: If you're eating a balanced diet, it's okay to give into your cravings
8. Teeth/Gum Sensitivity & Pain
Why it happens: Hormonal changes increase blood flow and gum sensitivity. It could also mean that your baby is taking all of your calcium and you need to increase your intake through food or a supplement.
Remedies:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Maintain regular dental checkups
- Rinse with warm salt water if gums are sore
- Eat more calcium-rich foods (kale, collard greens, milk, cheese, yogurt)
9. Lack of Energy
Why it happens: Increased blood volume and physical demands can drain your energy.
Remedies:
- Nap when needed
- Light exercise (like walking or a birth ball routine)
- Iron-rich snacks (spinach, lentils, dried fruit)
- Hydration, hydration, hydration!
10. Low Iron
Symptoms: Fatigue, dizziness, paleness
Remedies:
- Eat iron-rich foods (red meat, beans, leafy greens)
- Pair with Vitamin C for better absorption
- Discuss iron supplements with your provider
- Use cast iron cookware
11. Swelling (Especially in Feet & Ankles)
Why it happens: Fluid retention and circulation changes
Remedies:
- Elevate your legs
- Wear compression socks
- Stay active and hydrated
- Warm baths with Epsom salts can help soothe and draw out excess fluids
12. Heaviness
Why it happens: Your belly is growing—and so is the strain on your back and core
Remedies:
- Use a supportive belly band or kinesiology tape
- Prenatal yoga or chiropractor visits
- Stretching can help relieve pressure
13. Mood Swings
Why it happens: Hormonal surges + physical changes + life transitions = emotional rollercoaster
Remedies:
- Acknowledge your feelings—don’t push them away
- Aromatherapy (lavender, chamomile, citrus) for mood support
- Daily journaling or mindfulness practice
- Make room for rest and connection
- Join a local or online pregnancy support group
- Share openly with a trusted friend or therapist
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help—vulnerability is strength
14. Pre-Pregnancy Mental Illness
Why it’s crucial: Pregnancy can amplify pre-existing conditions.
Remedies:
- Speak with your doctor about a care plan
- Prioritize sleep, boundaries, and support
- Regular therapy and, if needed, medication management
Helpful Tools for Everyday Comfort
Here are a few things that can help make your day-to-day easier during pregnancy:
Pregnancy isn't just a physical journey—it's emotional, mental, and spiritual. You deserve to feel supported and empowered every step of the way. If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out. You're not alone, and there are resources, remedies, and people ready to walk alongside you.
Here are a few things that can help make your day-to-day easier during pregnancy:
- Pregnancy Pillow: Total body support for sleep and lounging
- Magnesium Lotion/Spray: Calms nerves, supports sleep, and relieves muscle cramps
- Birth Ball: Great for posture, pelvic comfort, and later labor prep
- Warm Baths with Epsom Salt: Soothes aches and helps detox
- Aromatherapy: Use a diffuser with safe essential oils for mood support
- Weighted Blanket: Can provide a sense of calm during rest (use with caution)
- Water: Always carry a bottle. Hydration helps with nearly every symptom
Pregnancy isn't just a physical journey—it's emotional, mental, and spiritual. You deserve to feel supported and empowered every step of the way. If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out. You're not alone, and there are resources, remedies, and people ready to walk alongside you.
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