Common Experiences Congested or Bloody Nose During pregnancy, the lining of the respiratory tract receives more blood, often making it more congested. This congestion can also cause stuffiness in the nose or nosebleeds. In addition, small blood vessels in the nose are easily damaged due to the increased blood volume, causing nosebleeds. This is common, but speak to your healthcare provider if you experience frequent or severe nosebleeds.
Morning Sickness Morning sickness is caused by a rise in hormone levels. Although morning sickness is often limited to the hours soon after rising from bed, it can occur at any time of the day. Women will usually begin to experience morning sickness around four to seven weeks of pregnancy, and it will usually improve or go away by the end of the first trimester (12-13 weeks). Some women may feel nauseated throughout the pregnancy.
Tips to help morning sickness symptoms include: • Continue resting in bed 15 minutes after waking. • Eat crackers (or other bland starches) before arising from bed, and eat a small snack before going to bed. • Eat small, frequent meals (six per day) instead of three large meals. An empty stomach can cause nausea. • Drink liquids separate from solid foods, and maximize fluid intake when not eating. • Suck on hard candy, especially those containing ginger. • Avoid fatty, greasy and spicy foods. Eat carbohydrate and fiber-rich foods. • Combine salty foods and tart foods/beverages. • Avoid foods that have a strong smell, or ask someone to cook meals, if smells bother you. • Wear acupressure bands on wrists. These can be purchased at many local pharmacies.
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