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During pregnancy your body produces a mild-smelling or odorless milky discharge called leukorrhea. This discharge is comprised of secretions from the cervix and vagina, skin cells and normal good bacteria. Its job is to protect the birth canal from infection.

If vaginal discharge is making you uncomfortable:

• Use panty liners.
• Wash your genital area with warm water once or twice a day.
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid nylon and tight pants.
• Avoid feminine hygiene sprays, and scented pads or toilet paper.
• Do not use scented or deodorant soaps.
• Do NOT douche. It can be hazardous during pregnancy.
• Do NOT use tampons. They can introduce harmful bacteria.

When to Call Your Doctor

• Your discharge burns, itches, has a foul odor or makes your vulva red and swollen. This could indicate and infection.

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With the extra weight maternity brings and all the bodily changes a woman undergoes during pregnancy, the hips, thighs, legs, pelvis and back are natural places to have discomfort.

Causes of Thigh Pain During Pregnancy

• Structural changes- Your body is undergoing a great deal of change. Your posture has shifted a lot. Your abdominal muscles and uterus are stretching, and your baby is growing inside you. This puts extra strain on your hips and pelvis to hold you up and changes your center of gravity. Most of the muscles of the thigh attach to the pelvis in some area or another. All the changes in your hips can produce pain in the front, back, inside or outside of your thighs.
• Increase in Hormones- Your body is running high with hormones such as progesterone and relaxin which have a loosening effect on your muscles, joints, and ligaments. This process helps prepare your body for childbirth, but also causes relaxation of tissues and joints that normally support your body.
• Weight Gain- as you put on weight, your legs and thighs must work harder to hold you up. This can make them ache and feel tired and sore.
• Round ligament- Round ligament can create intermittent sharp pains in the hips, pelvis, and uterus along the inside of your hip bones and can refer pain down into your thighs and groin. This type of pain is caused by stretching in the uterus putting pressure on the round ligament that holds it in place.
• Circulation Problems- as your uterus gets bigger it may put pressure on your blood vessels, resulting in poor circulation to your legs.
• Edema- water retention can cause swelling, impeding blood flow and adding tension.
• Nerves- Weight gain and baby may put pressure on the nerves that lead into your legs, resulting in pain or cramping.
• Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction- Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is a condition of instability in the pelvic joints, specifically the pubic bone, which can be aggravated by relaxed ligaments during pregnancy.

Preventing Thigh Pain During Pregnancy

• Drink plenty of water.
• Be sure you are getting adequate Calcium and Magnesium in your diet.
• Practice prenatal yoga.
• Exercise regularly. Walking is very beneficial during pregnancy.
• Practice regular stretching exercises.
• Wear support hose.
• Try not to sit or stand for long periods. If you must, take frequent breaks and walk around.
• If you will be standing for long periods, elevate one foot slightly on a stool.
• If you will be sitting for long periods, elevate both feet slightly, placing them on a stool or small box.
• Practice pregnancy pain relief techniques.
• Don’t cross your legs.
• Wear a pregnancy support belt.
• Practice Self Massage or get regular Prenatal Massages and/or acupuncture.
• Use a pregnancy pillow at night.

Treatment for Thigh Pain During Pregnancy

• Take a warm bath.
• Use moist heat.
• Take acetaminophen for pain.
• See an acupuncturist, massage therapist or chiropractor
• Herbal Medicine.
• Have your partner help you with hands on techniques such as those in the Pregnancy Pain Relief book.

When to Call Your Doctor

• Your pain is severe.
• Your pain is getting worse or is accompanied by spotting or bleeding.

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Tailbone pain or sacral pain is not uncommon during pregnancy. Contrary to some beliefs, it can occur at any stage of pregnancy. It is generally the result of changing tensions in your pelvis and the relaxation of tendons.

Causes of Tailbone Pain or Sacral Pain During Pregnancy

• Implantation- can cause pain and cramping in the sacrum, tailbone, and lower back.
• Increased hormones- During pregnancy your body creates hormones which soften and loosen joints and tissues of the pelvis in order to get your body ready for the birth process. This relaxation of the joints can change the way your spine is being aligned and supported, resulting in pain in the sacrum and tailbone.
• Changes to Your Body Posture- Your body is changing every day. Your belly is growing and stretching and changing your center of gravity. This causes the muscles inside of you to readjust differently than normal. Your spine curves in order to compensate for the shift your abdomen causes. This can cause pressure and tension on your sacral spine and coccyx.
• Stress- Stress adds tension to the body and can contribute to pain. Often stress can cause clenching or tension in the gluteal muscles. Practice stress management.
• Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction- Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is a condition of instability in the pelvic joints, specifically the pubic bone, which can be aggravated by relaxed ligaments during pregnancy

Treatment for Sacral and Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

• Use ice or heat
• Take acetaminophen for pain
• See a chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist
• When lying down use a pregnancy pillow.
• Have your partner help you with hands on techniques such as those in the Pregnancy Pain Relief Book.
• Herbal Medicine
• Take a warm bath

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Your pain is very intense
• Your pain is getting increasingly worse or you have sudden stabbing pain
• You have rhythmic pain that feels like menstrual cramps.

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Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) is a condition where the joints in the pelvis are unstable and hurt. The pelvis is a ring of bones. When one of the joints in the pelvis becomes stiff or stuck, others compensate by moving excessively. This causes pain and discomfort, particularly in pregnancy because the joints and ligaments are already lax from the effects of pregnancy hormones.

SPD affects all ages of women. It can occur during or after pregnancy or after childbirth.

Diagnosis of SPD is from assessing symptoms and evaluating other conditions. There are no tests to determine whether or not you have SPD. X-rays, MRIs and other tests can rule out diastasis of the symphysis, which is an actual separation of the symphysis pubis.

Symptoms of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

• Difficulty walking and doing normal activities due to pain and instability of the joints.
• Pain in the front and/or back of the pelvis and possibly in the groin, legs, back and pubic bone.

Tips to Help Recovery from Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

• Keep your legs together to help avoid greater stress, pain and damage.
• Keep your body symmetrical when you move, sit, stand or lie down. Carry weight equally in both hands and carry babies in front, not on a hip.
• Avoid twisting movements.
• Avoid lifting.
• Allow the joints to heal while remaining as active as possible and regaining your strength and stability.
• Plan and think about how you can make tasks easier
• Get help if you can.
• Wear a pregnancy support belt.
• Get acupuncture treatments, chiropractic treatments, or physical therapy.

Exercises Which Have Been Proven to Aid Recovery from Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

To be performed 3 times a day:

• Abdominal stabilization- sitting with your feet resting on the floor, gently pull in your lower abdominal muscles as if you are hugging your baby. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times, continuing to breathe normally.
  
• Pelvic floor- sitting tall, squeeze to close around your openings. Lift and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times, breathing normally throughout.
• Gluteus maximus muscle- while sitting or standing, squeeze your buttocks together. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times.
• Latissimus dorsi- sit on a chair in front of a table or a closed door. Grasp the door handle or table with both hands and pull toward you. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times.
• Hip adductor muscles- sitting down, put your fist or a rolled towel between your knees. Squeeze your knees together. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times.

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Swollen and bleeding gums are common during pregnancy. Symptoms are due to increased hormone levels during pregnancy and changes in your blood vessels. This condition is called “pregnancy gingivitis.” It affects about 50% of all pregnant women.

Preventing Swollen Gums During Pregnancy

It is important to take good care of your teeth during pregnancy. Pregnancy gingivitis can lead to a more serious condition called periodontitis, which is an infection that spreads to the bone and other tissues in your mouth.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be gentle and use a soft bristled toothbrush.
• See your dentist at least once during your pregnancy
• Floss daily.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe swollen gums.
• Be sure you are getting adequate nutrition.
• If you are having vomiting from morning sickness rinse your mouth well and brush your teeth after vomiting to cleanse stomach acids from your teeth.
• If you notice pain in your teeth or mouth, don’t wait to schedule a visit to your dentist.

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Swelling, also known as edema or water retention, occurs as a result of fluid accumulation. It is normal to have swelling during the later months of pregnancy.

Your body produces a minimum of 6 quarts of fluid during your pregnancy. The action of this fluid is to soften your body and your joints so that your hips can expand during childbirth.

Excess fluid often builds up in the hands, feet and ankles. As the weight of the uterus presses on the main arteries and veins it slows down your circulation. This allows blood to pool in your extremities, especially in the legs.

Preventing Swelling During Pregnancy

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Avoid salty food, processed foods and fast food.
• Wear full length support stockings . The half- length ones can cause more problems.
• Keep off your feet as much as possible.
• Lie down on your sides to take pressure off of your veins.
• Go swimming.
• Get adequate protein in your diet.
• Don’t wear socks or stockings with tight bands around your calves or ankles. This can prevent good circulation.
• Don’t cross your legs.
• If you must sit for extended periods, take frequent breaks and short walks.
• Elevate your feet above heart level.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• You are having facial swelling or more than just a little swelling in your hands.

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Side pain happens frequently during pregnancy. It is generally not a cause for alarm.

Causes of Side Pain During Pregnancy

• Round Ligament- The round ligaments help to support the uterus. During pregnancy your uterus expands and places strain on your round ligament. This can produce a great deal of discomfort with sharp twinges between your hip bone and uterus. It can occur on one side or both sides.
• Ectopic Pregnancy- ectopic pregnancy is when the embryo implants outside of the uterus. If it is early in your pregnancy and you are having pain on one side of your abdomen accompanied by spotting or bleeding, contact your doctor.
• Hormones- your hormones are running high during pregnancy. The role of some of these hormones is to relax your muscles and tendons to prepare your body for childbirth. As your muscles relax they can become strained more easily causing pain in your sides.
• Postural Changes- your baby is growing inside, stretching your uterus and abdomen and realigning your normal posture. This can cause discomfort in your back, hips and sides.
• Improper bending- heavy lifting, twisting, bending and prolonged sitting can cause your sides to hurt.
• Stress- stress adds tension to your body and can contribute to pain anywhere.

Preventing Side Pain During Pregnancy

The following are things you can do to reduce side pain:

• Wear good shoes. Heels and shoes that offer no support can contribute to discomfort all over your body.
• Practice safe lifting and bending. To lower your body, bend at the knees instead of the waist. Use your thigh muscles to push yourself back up without using your back.
• Try as pregnancy support belt.
• Be sure to exercise regularly. Movement eases many pains.
• Do pregnancy yoga or gentle stretching.
• Be sure you are getting adequate calcium and magnesium in your diet.
• Drink plenty of fluids- dehydration can cause muscle cramps.
• Practice good posture- stand with your hips and pelvis tucked in and your shoulders back and head up.
• Use a pregnancy pillow at night when you sleep.

Treatment for Side Pain During Pregnancy

• Use ice or heat.
• Take acetaminophen for pain.
• See a chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist
• Use a pregnancy belt or support device.
• Have your partner help you with hands on techniques such as those in the Pregnancy Pain Relief book.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Your side pain is very intense.
• Your side pain is getting increasingly worse.
• You have rhythmic pain that feels like menstrual cramps.
• You are having spotting or bleeding that accompanies the pain.

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Shoulder pain happens frequently during pregnancy. Your body is undergoing tremendous change, as are your thoughts as you prepare for your new child. This physical and emotional stress frequently gives rise to shoulder pain.

Causes of Shoulder Pain During Pregnancy

• Breast changes- During pregnancy your breasts are constantly changing and growing. Their weight will increase significantly. The average breast weighs approximately 7 ounces. By the end of pregnancy each breast can way 14 to 28 ounces or more. Your chest and shoulders must hold up this new weight and size which can lead to shoulder tension, soreness and pain.
• Stress- Stress is a huge factor in shoulder pain. The shoulders are one of the first places to feel tight and sore when you are under pressure.
• Poor Posture- Slouching and rounded shoulders can contribute to shoulder pain. It is something to continuously be aware of, especially with breast growth. You may find the extra weight pulling you forward before you think about it.

Preventing Shoulder Pain During Pregnancy

• Be sure to wear a good, supportive bra. This can be truly invaluable in preventing shoulder pain.
• Get regular massages.
• Exercise regularly.
• Practice good posture- keep your shoulders back and head up.
• Be sure you are getting adequate intake of calcium and magnesium in your diet.
• Practice pregnancy pain relief techniques.
• Practice stress relieving techniques.
• Practice prenatal yoga.

Treatment for Shoulder Pain During Pregnancy

• Use ice or heat.
• Take acetaminophen for pain.
• Take a warm bath.
• See a massage therapist, acupuncturist or chiropractor.
• Herbal Medicine.
• Stress relief techniques.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Your pain is very intense.
• Your pain is getting worse.
• Your pain is accompanied by spotting or bleeding.

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Sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica is pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Sciatic pain causes pain, tingling and numbness which travels down the buttock, hip and thigh. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and runs on both sides of your body from your lower back down the legs to the feet. You can experience this pain on one or both sides. This is not harmful to the baby, but is very unpleasant for the mother.

Causes of Sciatic Pain During Pregnancy

• Pressure from the uterus- During pregnancy the baby’s weight can put pressure on your sciatic nerve, pinching it. This can cause some pretty excruciating pain. If the baby changes position this pain may ease on its own.
• Poor Posture- slouching and poor posture can aggravate sciatica or allow it to develop.
• Improper bending or lifting.
• Crossing your legs frequently, especially only to one side.
• Lack of exercise.

Preventing Sciatica During Pregnancy

• Practice good posture- Stand with your hips and pelvis tucked in and your shoulders back and head up. Do not slouch or lean forward.
• Practice safe lifting and bending. To lower your body, bend at the knees, not the waist. Use your thigh muscles to push yourself back up without using your back muscles.
• Try a pregnancy support belt.
• Exercise regularly.
• Take frequent breaks from sitting or standing. Walk often.
• When you sit, elevate your feet slightly .
• Get massages or chiropractic adjustments.
• Practice pregnancy pain relief techniques.
• Use a pregnancy pillow when you sleep.
• Practice pregnancy yoga.

Treatment for Sciatica During Pregnancy

• Use moist heat compresses.
• Take a warm bath.
• Take acetaminophen for pain.
• See a chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist.
• Have a friend or partner to practice hands on techniques on your body such as those in the Pregnancy Pain Relief book.
• Exercises and physical therapy.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Your sciatic pain is very intense.
• Your sciatic pain is getting worse.

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Ovary pain can occur during pregnancy for a number of reasons.

Causes of Ovary Pain During Pregnancy

• Implantation- cramping can occur when the embryo implants into your uterus. Also, the corpus luteum, which develops in the area where the egg is released from the ovaries, produces progesterone to support your pregnancy. You may feel discomfort from this site during the early weeks of pregnancy.
• Ectopic Pregnancy – ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized embryo implants itself outside of the uterus.
• Urinary Tract Infection- what may seem like ovarian pain could actually be a urinary tract infection, especially if you are also experiencing any additional symptoms such as burning with urination or difficulty urinating.
• Ovarian cyst- it is possible to have an ovarian cyst, even during pregnancy, especially in the earlier stages.
• Stretching- Your body is stretching and growing with your pregnancy. It is not unusual to experience some degree of cramping in the pelvic area.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Call your doctor if your pain is persistent, sharp, or accompanied by bleeding or spotting.