Relief For Certain Problems During Pregnancy (NAPSA)—According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are over 4 million births in the United States a year. While many women enjoy that famous “glow,” others discover the not-so-glowingside effects and complications that can occur. Here are a few and whatto do about them. Un-Holy Heartburn: Due to hormonal and physical changes, many pregnant women experience heartburn (sometimes called acid indigestion or acid reflux). To alleviate or at least minimize the symptoms, try avoiding carbonated, drinks, alcohol, caffeine, and acidic foods such as fruits, tomatoes and ( \ To reduce the risk of unpleasant side effects, pregnant women can try eating five small meals throughout the day rather than three big ones. processed meats. Drinking large quantities of liquids during meals can cause your stomach to distend. To help keep the gastric acid from rising into the esophagus, sleep propped up with pillows so the head is raised higherthan thefeet. Excessive Gas and Bloating: These can be caused by increased vegetables), drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day and getting regular exercise can help decrease the incidence of constipation that commonly leads to hemorrhoids. Sitting for a long time can aggravate the condition, so try lying on your left side to increase blood terone) relaxing the digestive tract. Try eating five small meals throughout the day rather than three big ones. If you can, figure out which foods cause excess gas and either eliminate them or spread out eating them throughout the day. Limit the amount of carbonated beverages you drink and have your beverages in a cup or glass rather than through a straw to avoid sucking in extra air. Avoiding and Treating Hemorrhoids: Suffered by approxi- body. Over-the-counter products such as Tucks Medicated Pads can provide immediate relief from itching and burning associated with hemorrhoids, while soothing and protecting irritated areas with the active ingredient witch hazel. “For all of the embarrassing side effects that may pop up during pregnancy, most women who experience these things will happily tell you that they forget them soon after giving birth,” said Dr. Isabel Blumberg, OB/GYN MountSinai ulation in general, for many women they can arrive either during pregnancy or in the second stage of labor. There are ways to lessen your chances for getting them and ease your discomfort if you do. Eating a high-fiber diet (with thing to rememberis that they are hormones (specifically proges- mately 20 percent of the adult pop- foods that include fruit, beans and return from the lower half of your Medical Center. “The important not set in stone to occur, are very treatable if they do and will leave your memory quickly after you bring home the newest (and littlest) member of your household.” For more information, visit www.tucksbrand.com.
