Patient Education

FIRST TRIMESTER

• increased levels of hormones
• changes in carbohydrate  metabolism
• emotional factors and fatigue   

• avoid odors or causative factors
• eat dry crackers or toast before arising in morning
• avoid greasy or highly seasoned foods
• take dry meals with fluids between meals
• drink carbonated beverages

• Pressure of uterus on bladder in both first and third trimester 

• void when urge is felt
• increase fluid intake during the day
• decrease fluid intake only in the evening

• increased levels of estrogen and progesterone 

• wear well-fitting support bra  

• increased production of mucus due to increased levels of estrogen

• daily bathing, no douching, cotton panties 

• elevated estrogen levels 

• sometimes a cool air vaporizer may  help

SECOND AND THIRD TRIMESTERS 

• increased levels of progesterone
• decreased movement in the intestines
• displacement of the stomach from the enlarged uterus

• eat small frequent meals
• may use low sodium antacids
• avoid overeating fatty and fried  foods
• avoid lying down right after eating 

• prolonged standing or sitting  decreased circulation in the legs

• elevate legs when sitting or resting
• avoid tight or restrictive clothes around the legs

• decreased blood flow in legs
• hereditary factors, age and weight 

• elevate legs frequently
• wear supportive hose
• avoid crossing legs at the knees
• standing for long periods of time

• constipation
• increased pressure on the rectum from the uterus and  baby 

• avoid constipation
• apply ice packs
• topical ointment such as tucks pads
• warm soaks 

• pressure of uterus on large  intestines
• iron supplements
• diet
• lack of exercise
• decreased fluids

• increase fluid intake
• fiber in diet
• exercise
• develop regular bowel habits
• use stool softener as directed by your doctor

• increased curvature of the lower back as the uterus enlarges
• fatigue
• poor posture

• maintain proper posture
• practice pelvic tilt exercises
• avoid uncomfortable high-heeled shoes
• get enough rest
• use pillow to support your back while resting

• imbalance of calcium/  phosphorus ratio
• increased pressure of uterus on nerves
• fatigue
• poor circulation to legs

• practice flexing the feet in order to stretch affected muscles
• eat balanced diet
• apply heat (warm not hot) to affected muscles 

• change in blood pressure  when changing positions
• standing for a long periods of time in one place
• anemia

• arise slowly from resting position
• avoid prolonged standing in warm or stuffy environments
• refer to physician for evaluation of blood counts

• decreased capacity of the lungs from pressure of the enlarging uterus on the diaphragm

• use proper posture when sitting  and standing
• sleep propped up with pillows for  relief if problem occurs at night