So you're pregnant - what early signs to expect and what you should do - Dr. Reiaz Mohammed

Congratulations on your pregnancy. The next few weeks will be filled with lots of excitement and some anxiety. Knowing what to expect will help you deal with the changes that your body undergoes at this time.

It is normal to experience some breast fullness or pain as a result of water retention. You may also notice darkening of the areola (pigmented area around the nipple).

 Nausea or vomiting is one of the most common complaints of early pregnancy. This normally lasts up to the end of the 1^st trimester. You should avoid fatty foods, milk products, carbonated beverages and spicy foods. I’m sure your grandmother will make you some ginger tea, make sure and drink it because studies prove that ginger tea helps to alleviate nausea and vomiting. Make sure and drink lots of fluids to keep hydrated, coconut water is particularly good. If vomiting is severe or persistent, you should visit your doctor to ensure that there is not another cause for the vomiting.

Constipation in pregnancy is due to slowing down of the movement of the bowel caused by the hormone progesterone. Eat lots of foods high in fibre such as fruits and vegetables and make sure and drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Hemorrhoids worsen in pregnancy and are further aggravated by constipation.

It is normal to have an increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy. However vaginal fungal infections are also common in pregnancy, so if you have associated itching or burning then you may have an yeast infection which requires treatment.

Increased frequency of urination is common in pregnancy.  If it is accompanied by burning or abdominal pain while urinating this may be as a result of a urinary tract infection (bladder infection). Make sure to visit your doctor who can prescribe antibiotics which are safe in pregnancy.

You may also notice changes in your skin such as acne (pimples) and darkening of the skin. Some women also develop a red rash on the cheek due to the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy. Varicose veins become more prominent during pregnancy and may become painful. Most women will experience some swelling of the feet and ankles during pregnancy, especially at the end of the day. Try and keep your feet elevated when at rest to help decrease the swelling.

These changes may be stressful to you and your partner but don’t worry the majority of them are reversible after the pregnancy.

If you would like me to discuss a particular topic or ask any questions, let me know and I will address  them in next week's blog. Till then take care of yourself…… only then will you be able to take care of those you love.

Dr. Reiaz Mohammed

MB.BS (UWI), MRCOG(UK)

Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Gulf View Medical Centre