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Twice in my life, I've been pregnant over Christmas. The first time I was seven months along. I was tired all the time and had ongoing Braxton Hicks contractions that had started a few months earlier.
Braxton Hicks contractions can make a pregnant woman wonder if she is in very early labor. A little intimidating if you're only a few months pregnant when they commence.
They're harmless though, and while they're uncomfortable they may also be getting your body ready for its eventual labor. Some women hope this will make for a shorter, milder delivery.
I experienced a certain amount of edema (fancy word for swelling). I'd have it in my hands, making my fingers look fat, and the tops of my hands would ache. This was due to pressure exerted on a nerve which would disappear after delivery.
My legs swelled throughout the day, till by evening they felt quite stiff and sore. My ankle bones would disappear and my feet got fat. Touching my leg would leave a dent in my skin.
The first time that happened was a shock. I don't like taking medication if I can help it so I can't tell you anything about diuretics. I can tell you that cucumber and watermelon are natural diuretics and helped reduce the edema.
The second time I was pregnant over Christmas, I was four months along. I'd had terrible morning sickness the first few months but by four months I was feeling pretty good. Not yet into the unwieldy cumbersome mass stage, nor yet into the time of digestive problems due to too much baby crowding into too small a space.
Building a baby takes a lot of energy. Don't be surprised that you wear out faster than you used to. In fact you should plan for it.
Small snacks throughout the day will keep your blood sugar and your energy up better than a few large meals, especially since your stomach will feel like there just isn't room for all that in there.
Lie down or at least get your feet up every day whether you think you need it, or whether you think you can afford the time, or not.
Trust me, in the long run it may save you time. You may find yourself with a better energy after having a rest. And lying down will help with any swelling, and gives your body a chance to do any needed regeneration or repairs.
What you're doing is hard work. Give yourself a break. Often. Regularly. You'll be glad you did.
Visit Jody's website and blog at http://www.ncubator.ca and http://ncubator.ca/blogger
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