5 ways to Stay Comfy

Pregnancy brings discomfort but there are ways to cope | By Heather Alton 

Pregnancy can represent a major physical challenge, and aches,and pains are par for the course. This is particularly so as you progress through your pregnancy, baby gets bigger and your uterus stretches. General discomfort, particularly in your third trimester cannot be avoided, but there are definitely ways to make life easier, particularly at bedtime.

1 Pillow Talk. It’s a bitter irony. You will spend most to your bed, but once in you just cant get comfortable and sleep remains elusive. And if there’s anything you need during pregnancy, it’s sleep. If you haven’t invested in a body pillow yet, it’s time to get shopping. Many women describe their pregnancy pillow as their lifesaver – a well designed pillow will provide support for your back and bump while sleeping. It will also encourage you to sleep on your left side which is recommended from your second trimester onwards.

2 Belly Support round ligament pain. If you get  through pregnancy without experiencing it, you’re a lucky woman. Caused by the extra weight and pressure on the ligaments that support the growing uterus, it’s a temporary but painful problem. Belly bands help distribute the weight of the baby across the back and abdomen, which may help relieve the pressure on the round ligaments and reduce pain. Plus, a belly band will extend your wardrobe well in

3 Soothing Skin. Itchy skin may sound like a doddle compared to round ligament pain, but it can be desperately uncomfortable. You will generally feel it across your burgeoning belly and boobs as your skin stretches. Some women can experience itchiness in their palms and soles of their feed, possibly caused by an increase in oestrogen. Wear loose, cotton clothes and slather on unscented moisturiser to ease symptoms.

4 Feeling The Burn. Many women suffer heartburn for the common enough condition and the terrible burning sensation can be very uncomfortable, and stressful if you do not know what it is. eat little and often, avoid spicy foods and ironically, keep an eye on fluids. Drinking fluids is good, but drinking a lot of fluids while eating is not. This excess in fluids usually results in an increased acid reflux which leads to heartburn.

5 Boob Job. Full, tender breasts are onet of the first signs of pregnancy and unforuntately they can remain tender throughout. There’s no evidence to suggest that underwired bras cause any harm, but they are definitely likely to become uncomfortable as your body changes. A soft, wireless bra will become your best friend, particularly when you can pull it on over your head without having to fiddle about with hooks or clips.