Your baby bump keeps growing, and you are adapting to all the changes pregnancy brings. It’s only natural to experience some discomfort as you go through them. Here are a few common ailments expectant mamas tend to experience during their second trimester and what to do about them.
Constipation
Up to 38 percent of pregnant women complain of constipation [1]. That may be because the uterus has grown so much that it compresses the intestines. Or because of the slowing effect hormones can have on the digestive system [2]. Doctors recommend drinking more water, moving more, and increasing the fiber intake to help the intestines work more actively [2].
As your uterus grows, its supportive ligaments and the skin surrounding the area stretch significantly. This process is often painful. It can feel like a slight pull or a sharp, sudden spasm. You can usually find relief by changing position or having a warm shower [3].
Farting (flatulence)
Flatulence comes from the buildup of gas in the abdomen. In the second half of pregnancy, this can be due to constipation, which, as we mentioned, may be due to weakened intestinal peristalsis (less digestive movement) and uterine pressure. In addition, the absorption of gas into your bloodstream slows down when you are pregnant, so it has to find another way out [4]. This problem isn’t something most women want to bring up with their doctors, so we don’t know exactly how common it is. But we’re willing to bet that it’s pretty common!
Approximately 70 percent of women experience back pain during pregnancy [5]. Your enlarged belly plays a part because as your center of gravity shifts, your back muscles work harder to keep you upright. Muscles you don’t normally use now bear more weight, and that can hurt. So go easy on your back and keep your movements gentle.
Finger numbness
Up to 62 percent of pregnant women complain of numb or tingling fingers. It can be especially unpleasant at night when it can keep you from falling or staying asleep [3]. These symptoms may be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by hormonal fluctuations, edema, and changes in glucose levels. In most cases, it goes away on its own after childbirth.
