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Spotting during pregnancy can be very scary and cause all kinds of concern, so here’s the short answer: yes. Some spotting during pregnancy is completely normal, and the occurrence of spotting and/or light bleeding doesn’t automatically mean you’re going to have a miscarriage. That said, spotting can be an indication of problems, so how do you know when to worry? And how do you know when to get your healthcare provider involved? In this article we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about spotting during pregnancy— why it happens, when it usually happens, and when it’s a cause for concern. Armed with this information, we hope you’ll be able to put your mind at ease, and get back to your main priority: taking care of yourself and your growing child. Spotting: A Common Experience Jill was enjoying a Major League Baseball game one October afternoon when she noticed she had begun to spot. “My heart sank,” she recalls. “My first thought was ‘Oh no, here we go again.’” After suffering through a miscarriage seven months prior, Jill had felt much more optimistic about her current pregnancy. Eight weeks in, her symptoms were strong, she had gotten A+ results on all of her early wellness checks, and she hadn’t been plagued with the headaches and weakness she had felt during the earlier pregnancy, which had ended at seven weeks. “I though that everything in this new pregnancy was going right, and I thought I was able to leave the experience of my miscarriage behind me—but all it took was a few spots of blood, and the fear and anxiety all came flooding back.” While frightening, Jill’s experience wasn’t all that unusual. According to the American Pregnancy Association, 20 to 30 percent of pregnant women experience some form of bleeding during their first trimester, and about half of those women will go on to have a normal pregnancy. Only 15 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, so even for those experiencing vaginal bleeding, the odds of avoiding a miscarriage are still heavily in their favor. As further reassurance, a 2009 medical study found that “spotting or light bleeding episodes, especially [in] those without pain and lasting only a day or two, do not increase the risk of miscarriage above baseline risk, i.e. the risk for women with no bleeding.” Meaning a woman who does experience a brief episode of spotting or light bleeding is statistically at no higher risk for losing her pregnancy than a woman who never bleeds at all—a huge comfort to hear when the fear factor is high. Of course, all of this data doesn’t mean that spotting in early pregnancy isn’t an unsettling experience. It’s important to arm yourself with information on how and why spotting happens so that you can feel confident assessing when bleeding might be a cause for concern. Spotting: What It Is and Why It Happens Spotting is typically defined as intermittent bleeding that occurs outside of the regular menses period. Very light, it may only appear as a few drops of blood on underwear or on a pad, and it is almost never accompanied by the typical menstrual symptoms. Light bleeding might be more substantial than spotting, but still less than the output experienced during a normal period. If it only needs a pantyliner to contain the flow, that’s light bleeding. Both spotting and light bleeding can be experienced during early pregnancy, as the body shifts gears and gets all systems aligned for the rigors of growing a child. In all of this frenetic activity, a few biological conditions make the likelihood of early-pregnancy bleeding much higher. Prime culprits include: Implantation bleeding. After fertilization, it’s not uncommon for some spotting or light bleeding to occur when the egg nestles itself into the blood-rich surroundings of the uterus. Called implantation bleeding, this type of spotting commonly occurs just after conception, often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant; in fact, many women can mistake this bleeding for an unusually light period, as it happens around when menstruation would be expected to start. Hormonal changes that make the cervix more sensitive, and more prone to bleeding. The flood of hormones that accompany pregnancy brings a substantial increase in blood flow to the cervix, making it softer and enriching it with delicate blood vessels that can easily burst. This means that any activity that disturbs the cervix—sexual intercourse, intense physical exercise, or even just a routine internal/physical exam—can burst those vessels and cause some light bleeding. This bleeding is typically very light and usually stops within 1-2 days. Infections. If present during pregnancy, certain infections—particularly cervicitis—can react with normal cervical changes and cause bleeding. Women who have experienced unusual discharge, pain, and heavy bleeding during their normal periods but have never been seen by a doctor should be evaluated for cervicitis, as it can affect both the viability of a pregnancy and newborn health. As you can see, transitional changes brought on by pregnancy hormones can up the chances of spotting or light bleeding early in pregnancy, which is why temporary bleeding in the first trimester is often of no concern. When to Worry and When to Contact Your Doctor In general, the earlier in the pregnancy and the lighter the bleeding, the less reason for concern. As your pregnancy progresses, however, even light bleeding should be reported to your healthcare provider within a short timeframe, as potential complications escalate the closer you move towards birth. Helpful details from the Mayo Clinic summarize how to react to bleeding throughout your pregnancy, and when you should call your doctor. In brief: Light bleeding or spotting that occurs in the first trimester and disappears within a day should be mentioned at your next appointment. After the first trimester, inform your doctor within 24 hours of any light bleeding that occurs. Heavy bleeding or bleeding accompanied by pain, cramping, fever, or chills that occurs anytime during your pregnancy is urgent, and you should contact your doctor immediately. In addition to the above, remember to listen to your gut. If you have a nagging feeling that something is wrong, or if you’re having a hard time quieting your fears, check in with your doctor and let them know what’s going on. Sometimes all it takes is a quick exam or a few calming words to give you peace of mind. Taking It In Stride Jill knows firsthand that it’s easy to get swept away in a panic if spotting or bleeding starts during early pregnancy. But learning about the warning signs of miscarriage and the normalcy of spotting/light bleeding in pregnancy can help clear away the fear. “When I was at that baseball game and I first saw the blood, all I wanted to do was cry,” she remembers. “But after taking a few deep breaths, I realized that although I was spotting, I wasn’t experiencing any of the painful cramping or nausea I had felt during my recent miscarriage. In fact, I felt perfectly fine! The spotting was very light and only went on for about an hour before it stopped altogether. I was on pins and needles waiting to see if the situation would get worse, but it never did. A quick check with my OB/GYN a few days later proved that everything was fine, and she reassured me that the pregnancy looked strong.” Happily, Jill gave birth to a healthy ten-pound baby boy the following spring. She’ll never forget the anxiety and fear that plagued that day when she was spotting, but being well-informed helped her avoid unnecessary anxiety and stress. Armed with the above information, we hope you can take the normal occurrence of spotting during pregnancy in stride as well.

Pregnancy can be a wild ride of changing moods and emotions. Without warning, a pregnant woman can feel angry, extremely anxious, depressed, and lethargic. Many of these feelings can even take place in a single day. During pregnancy, your mood fluctuates to extreme emotions for many different reasons and is not usually the most fun experience for anyone. Being pregnant is an experience that you should enjoy and learn and grow as a person. It is a special time for new moms to experience creating a new life. However, oftentimes many things like extreme mood swings can ruin the journey for some. Easing these mood swings can help you try and enjoy your pregnancy journey. Why Pregnant Women Have Mood Swings Hormones The first culprit that affects a pregnant woman's extreme highs and lows are the ever-fluctuating hormones. During pregnancy, women experience a significant increase of different hormones. Estrogen targets the mood centers of the brain, so high estrogen levels are to blame for your heightened anxiety or depression. The other partner in crime is progesterone, which helps to relax your muscles but which in turn leads to feeling sluggish and sometimes increased sadness. Fatigue Another reason pregnant women have these notorious mood swings is due to minimal sleep, tiredness, and irritability. After carrying around that extra weight for several months, you may also be feeling achy, which does not help with sleep. It can be hard to sleep well in your new body, and it may feel impossible for pregnant women to get a full night's rest. Like everyone, if you aren’t getting enough rest, you will get up feeling exhausted and more irritable. Stress Pregnancy can cause stress, especially for new moms. Women may worry about little things that they would not otherwise think about before getting pregnant. Having a baby is a big deal, and there are several challenges and thoughts that can cause stress in a pregnant woman. It is normal to think about all the what-ifs and planning thoughts for when the baby comes, but when it leads to high levels of stress, this is problematic. Increased stress levels also affect your mood and your heightened nerves throughout pregnancy. Body Changes Your body changes drastically and quickly during pregnancy, and this can be a big shock for many women. It can be difficult to adjust to your larger, more challenging to move your body around, and this can also lead to frustration, stress, and sadness as well. These significant physical changes can manipulate how you feel during pregnancy. What You Can Do To Help Different women have different levels of mood fluctuations, some more extreme than others. Also, at various stages of pregnancy, a woman may have surges of extreme moods, with other periods of the pregnancy being more mellow. Mood swings are not fun for anyone. It is exhausting for a woman and for the people surrounding them during their pregnancy. It is helpful, first, for everyone to understand why these mood swings happen and, to a certain extent, they are inevitable. However, there are a few things a woman can do that have been shown to minimize these extreme mood swings and help her enjoy her pregnancy. These are a few ideas of ways you can reduce these awful mood swings. Nutritious Diet Getting the nutrition that your body needs, especially when carrying a baby, is very important. Remembering to eat and eating healthy foods will help increase your energy levels and fuel your brain and body, which will, in turn, help the baby develop. Exercise Proper exercise helps to reduce stress and increase hormone levels that improve mood. Tailor your exercise to your physical ability and to how you are feeling that day, but even a walk outside will increase positivity. Put yourself First Prioritize yourself during your pregnancy and try not to give yourself grief about small things. It is okay to be a little selfish throughout this special time; it is meant to be enjoyed. Try to remember it is not only for your own sake but also for the health and safety of your child. Talk to Someone Pregnancy can be overwhelming. When you are feeling like it is too much, don’t be afraid to let it out. Let people know how you are feeling, and often talking about it will ease some of the worries. You may have a close loved one that can help be there to support you, or you may feel more comfortable speaking to a therapist. Either way, knowing that someone is listening and supporting you in how you are feeling can be really empowering and help you lighten your mood. Sleep Often Like many bodily stressors, getting enough sleep is often the key. It can be hard to get enough sleep while pregnant, but focusing on regular and sufficient sleep now will put your body in gear for getting rest once the baby is here. Try fitting a nap into your day, having a scheduled bedtime, and a pre-bedtime routine that helps you relax and wind down. Enjoy The Ride Mood swings are not fun. They are, however, something that often happens during pregnancy for several normal reasons. Minimizing your negative moods will help you enjoy your pregnancy and better focus on you and your baby During and after pregnancy can be made much more enjoyable with a few self-care tips and maybe even splurging on some pregnancy and postpartum goodies. We recommend indulging every so often, enjoy it and try not to stress too much. For example, treating yourself to the foods you are craving for enjoyment is better than stressing over avoiding all “unhealthy” foods. Postpartum, your body, and mind are still going through many changes, while you may feel you are supposed to turn all your attention to your child. While it may be true that your priorities will change, perhaps you can buy yourself some jewelry or a postpartum girdle to boost your confidence and increase your positive moods.

Twins occur when a woman becomes pregnant with two children from one conception. Twins are carried in the womb together and delivered at the same time. Irish twins occur when a woman has a baby within 12 months of having another child. As you can tell twins and Irish twins are very different, but that still doesn’t explain everything. Why are they called “Irish twins” if they aren’t twins? Where did the term come from? Are women even able to have children so soon after birth? What does it look like for your health and well-being to have two children so close together? In this article, we will explore the answer to those questions and more. What does the phrase Irish Twins Mean? “Irish” twins is a phrase that refers to when two children are born within 12 months of one another to the same mother. These siblings are born so close together that they are practically twins. Is it Offensive? Many people use the phrase as a way to describe the small age gap between siblings. Some people who are “Irish twins” may even use the phrase to describe themselves. However, the phrase originated as derogatory slang towards Irish Catholic people, so it is in its essence offensive. History of the term “Irish Twins” During the early 19th century when many Europeans were emigrating to the United States, the term Irish Twins became a popular derogatory slang against Irish Catholic people. The Catholic faith is the dominant faith of Ireland and therefore many people who immigrated to the U.S. from Ireland were practicing Catholics. In the Catholic faith, birth control is thought to be sinful and against the will of God. Therefore, many practicing Catholics are taught to avoid birth control. This avoidance causes many women to become pregnant soon after they give birth. Because of this, many Irish Catholic families are quite large with many children. With a large family and few work opportunities in the U.S., many of the Irish immigrants were poor. Therefore, “Irish twins” was a slur that was used to imply that a family had more children than they could support. Today, there is not a negative stigma against Irish people in the United States so many people do not think of the term as offensive. However, based on its history, it is probably wise not to use the term. Instead, you can just refer to them as siblings who are close-in-age or as closely spaced siblings. Risks of Having "Irish Twins" Recent research has discovered that becoming pregnant within six months of giving birth does lead to increased risks on the fetus. These risks include Higher chance of a premature birth Placental abruption Low birth weight Congenital disorders Maternal/Gestational anemia The precise reason for these risks is still unknown. However, researchers believe it has to do with the mother’s inability to heal properly between pregnancies. Pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding all deplete a woman’s nutrients--particularly folate. These nutrients are essential when a baby is growing, so if there are not enough of these nutrients it can lead to problems. Waiting an extended period of time between pregnancies, preferably 18-24 months after giving birth, allows your body to heal fully. Pregnancy with Irish Twins Depending on how quickly your body begins its ovulation cycle after giving birth it is possible for a woman to have two children 9.5-10 months apart. While this is possible, it is not likely. For the majority of women, their first ovulation cycle does not occur until about one month after they have given birth. In addition, the majority of healthcare workers will suggest you wait 6 weeks after birth before having intercourse. So while pregnancy with close-in-age siblings is still viable, it is becoming less popular. Spacing between your pregnancies is ultimately a choice you and your family need to make on your own. There are many reasons that a woman may choose to space her children close together. And you should not feel any shame if you want to do the same. It's ultimately up to you and your family, but there are a lot of different things that might affect the decision. Some people prefer a short time between each child because they enjoy having their children close in age and are excited to see them grow up together. Other people prefer a longer time between each because they want the first child to have more attention. The spacing between births is also affected by many different factors—such as if you have had a Cesarean section, if you have a history of miscarriage or infertility. Postpartum Recovery with Irish Twins Due to the limited amount of healing time between pregnancies, many women have a very different labor experience the second time around. With a closely spaced pregnancy, there is an increased risk that your labor will be premature and fast. While a fast labor sounds great, there are some complications that you can experience from it as well. If the contractions are coming too quickly, it can be difficult to manage the pain. Similarly, fast contractions can lead you to want to push which can cause lacerations and tears to your vagina and cervix. In addition, pregnancy hormones and breastfeeding hormones can be at odds with one another and cause problems. Some of these include Braxton-Hicks contractions and your milk drying up. Not only will your physical recovery take a toll, but your mental health may take a toll as well. Postpartum depression is common among mothers who have had closely spaced siblings. Postpartum depression is a pretty common experience for women who have given birth, but many new mothers are unaware that it can also be experienced by those who have recently had a baby after having had a previous one who was born less than two years ago. Is Raising Two Children Close In Age Considered Irish Twins? Postpartum recovery is a struggle in general and raising a toddler at the same time can be difficult. You will have to deal with twice the number of diapers, twice the amount of supplies, navigate two separate schedules, and deal with different developmental struggles. That being said, raising "Irish twins" is a great journey and a wonderful experience. They will have a friend for life and as they grow older the journey will continue to change. Raising two children close in age will come with its struggles but it is all worth it. Postpartum Recovery of Irish Twins As you know, having a baby requires special care for the recovery of the mother's body. Having Irish twins is no exception. Having two babies within a short time of each other, whether that's less than a year or even just a few months, puts a lot of strain on the body. After giving birth to your first baby, you're still experiencing all the hormonal changes and physical recovery from labor and delivery, but now you have another being growing inside you. The result is that the body goes through the typical changes of pregnancy without having fully recovered from the birth of the previous pregnancy. The most common issues are fatigue and nausea. With one baby, it may not be a problem for you to go about your daily routine and keep up with your usual activities. But when there's another baby inside you, everything is harder: work, playtime with your first child, even sitting up in bed. You can expect to feel exhausted much more often than before—not tired while you're taking care of one child but tired all day long because your body has to work hard to take care of two children at once. Here are some tips for recovery after giving birth to 2 babies born less than 12 months apart. Food Tips for Mothers of Irish Twins Women, and the nature of their bodies, are designed to ensure the survival of children. When a mother has another baby a short time after having her first, she has not had a sufficient period of time to recover the essential vitamins, minerals and fats lost during pregnancy. This means that in pregnancy while the first baby is receiving optimal nutrients for development during breastfeeding, the fetus may not be receiving adequate nutrition. Likewise, when the second baby is born, nutrients may not be sufficient to nourish both babies. To avoid this, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. A nutrient-rich diet will help ensure that you are providing your body with all of the vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients it needs to boost your fertility and increase your chances of delivering healthy babies. But what exactly does a nutrient-rich diet look like? And how can you make sure you're providing your body with everything it needs? While the placenta is working hard to supply the baby with nutrients, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. She may need to eat a special diet and eat more but always controlling portions and especially the nutrients contained in each food. High protein foods can be good choices as they contain amino acids which help build muscle and tissue. Calcium is also essential for bone health and should be included in the diet as much as possible. Dairy products, dark leafy greens, tomatoes, beans, fish, nuts, seeds and fruits all contain calcium. Proper nutrition will help the mother regain all the nutrients she has lost during the pregnancies and births and help her stay strong and healthy to care for her Irish twins. Mental Health Care for Mothers of Irish Twins It can take several years for a woman to recover from a pregnancy. A lot of women find themselves struggling with physical, emotional and financial changes that last for a long time after the birth. There are steps you can take to minimize the effects of pregnancy on your life, though. Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. It's important for you to recognize what symptoms are normal and what ones might be signs of a problem, like needing medical attention. And it's also important to try to stay as healthy as possible while pregnant and while breastfeeding so that you can get back up on your feet faster after the baby arrives. Also, it's really important to stay in touch with those who matter most in your life—your partner and family members—throughout this time so you don't feel isolated or alone during your recovery. The physical exhaustion that comes with having a baby, from birth to care such as feeding, carrying and diapering is unavoidable. Having Irish twins means even more fatigue as these activities must be done with two babies. Physically, the mother's body is undergoing wear and tear. However, it should be noted that emotional exhaustion can also be a complication if not properly treated. Postpartum depression is a condition that requires professional help. One really important recommendation is for the mother of Irish twins to see a mental health professional to help her through the process of caring for one baby while she is expecting the next. Or, once she has had both children. Creating Routines In order for a mother to have a proper recovery after giving birth twice in a short period of time, she needs to get a good night's sleep. Although it sounds a bit complicated with two babies in your care, it can help if you create strict routines for performing day-to-day activities. Having children so close together requires a military-style schedule. The parents' activities should have scheduling rules that will benefit the babies' development. Parents who want to do more than just survive their children's infancy and toddlerhood can make their lives easier by establishing a schedule for sleep. By keeping it consistent, parents can get both children to sleep at the same time and use that time for other household activities—whether it's doing housework, going out with friends or even starting a new hobby. A healthy amount of sleep is important for everyone in the house, but as parents know, getting a young child to sleep is not always easy. They're easily distracted by noises in the house—a ticking clock, a refrigerator running, even a conversation between adults or siblings. But if parents establish a set time and place for sleep, they can help their children be less distracted and get the rest they need. It might seem counterintuitive to have all the children in the house sleeping at the same time, but actually having everyone in bed at 8 p.m. will give your family its own time away from everyday activities. This is an opportunity to relax on the couch, get some chores done or have an adult conversation with your spouse or family members. Children who have a greater age difference between them, have different schedules and habits. In theory it is more complicated to align the schedules of both children. On the other hand, having Irish twins can be easier when it comes to instilling schedules in them. With this, the mother will be able to have time to rest and dedicate it to her personal care. Exercise Tips for Irish Twin Mothers Having two births within such a short time of each other is comparable to a multiple birth whether it is vaginal or cesarean. It will take much longer for a mother's body to return to its original size and shape. We are talking about your body not having recovered from one pregnancy when you have already entered another. You must be patient with yourself and your body and follow all medical indications. You have probably gained more weight after going through two continuous pregnancies. Your back, knees and hips are not in the best condition so you must take it one step at a time. When the doctor says so, you may be able to start some exercises in order to gradually regain your body's mobility. Walking is a good physical activity to start with. The advantage of this exercise is that you can do it with your family and your beautiful Irish twins. @carakuulei Baby 3 due Nov 2022! 3 babies under 2, all 11 months apart…LET’S FREAKING GOOOOOOO!!! 👶🏽👶🏼👶🏻#babiesoftiktok #christiantiktok #irishtwins #irishtriplets #irishtwinmama #irishtripletmom #foryou #foryoupage #fyp ♬ original sound - Cara Postpartum Products for Irish Twin Mothers It is very likely that the belly and breasts of a woman who has gone through two pregnancies and two continuous breast feedings are sagging. This can affect the mother's self-esteem and she may become unmotivated or depressed. Initially, you may not be able to do an exercise routine that will allow you to tone your body. However, we can recommend that you look for recommended postpartum garments. Some people might be surprised to learn that what they're wearing on their body could have an effect on their mental state. A postpartum girdle is a type of undergarment made with medical-grade materials to help the wearer recover from pregnancy and the effects of childbirth. A postpartum girdle is a tool used to help your body return to its original shape after pregnancy. It helps you get back in shape by providing compression, helping your postpartum body return to its original size as it recovers from childbirth. Postpartum girdles are available in many different styles, from undergarments that flatten the stomach and provide back support to full-body garments that look like tights. In addition to getting the body back into its original pre-pregnancy form (or getting close), girdles can also help with other postpartum concerns. Some are breathable, which is helpful for women who experience swelling in their legs and feet from retaining fluid. Since they fit like a second skin, many women report feeling less soreness in their abdominal muscles thanks to the support they provide. The corset-like garment also helps with postpartum recovery by providing abdominal support during activities such as breast feeding and walking. If you decide to purchase one, it is important to select one that will fit your body type and be comfortable enough for everyday wear. Most importantly, when purchasing one of these postpartum girdles, it is important to read reviews from others who have already used these garments to ensure that you purchase the best option for your needs. Be sure to purchase one that will provide you with ample support, as well as comfort. There are also bras that are designed for new moms so they can regain their firmness. On the other hand, the use of firming creams is also a good option to help your skin recover from having Irish twins. Takeaways Irish twins refer to siblings who are under 12 months apart in age. The phrase is an outdated slang term that can be offensive to some people, so it is best to refer to them as something else. If you've given birth to two children close in age, chances are you've got a few physical challenges to overcome. Between the demands of caring for a newborn and your already-tired body, it can be tough to get back into shape after childbirth—but that doesn't mean it's impossible! By investing in a good postpartum girdle (and other postpartum shapewear) you can feel better equipped to make it through your second pregnancy and come out the other side in good health. A postpartum girdle is worn under clothes and applies gentle pressure around the waist, abdomen, hips and buttocks in order to provide support and help to realign the body after pregnancy. Most are made of firm fabric with fastening mechanisms on the sides or at the back (or even both). These medical garments provide you some much-needed relief from pain by compressing the abdomen. Make parenting your two bundles of joy much easier by investing in a Bellefit postpartum girdle today. A postpartum girdle is much more comfortable than it looks—it is made out of soft material that works with your body to give it support. It's important that you use one that is adjustable, so that you can adjust it as your body changes. A lot of women don't know what size they should buy, but check out our sizing guides and instructions on how to measure yourself. Sources https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/irish-twins/ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2708196 https://www.babygaga.com/10-dangers-of-having-irish-twins-and-5-ways-to-survive-it/ https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/twins-and-multiples/giving-birth/your-recovery.aspx

When you are pregnant many things change inside your body, you might have morning sickness, back pain, cravings, mood swings, swollen ankles and not to forget that there is another human growing inside your belly. With changing hormones your immune system can get weakened as well. Getting sick while pregnant is not great and in some cases might have consequences for your baby. That’s why it is important to take care of yourself and your body. There are tips and tricks to boost your immune system and make you more resistant to illnesses. Why is my Immune System Weakening While Pregnant? The reason for that is simple. Your immune system is responsible for attacking foreign things like bacteria, viruses, etc but as your baby is a foreign invader as well, your immune system would attack it if there would be a change happening. Research has found that the timing of the immune system change is exactly timed to prevent the body from rejecting the fetus. Getting sick while pregnant is not great and in some cases might have consequences for your baby. What Can I Do to Prevent Getting Sick in The First Place? Taking care of yourself while pregnant is very important. Your body needs extra care as it is going through extreme change and works hard to develop your baby and keep you alive. It is crucial to invest in your health. This can mean different things such as taking time for yourself to rest, eating healthy food, staying in bed to sleep, meditating, etc. Listen to what your body tells you. Taking time for yourself is for sure not selfish. Eating nutritious food with many vitamins and minerals is important and these two ingredients are directly linked to a strong immune system. Don’t forget to exercise and get fresh air to keep your body healthy. There is also the option of avoiding heavily crowded places and washing your hands regularly to avoid catching any bugs. Ways to Boost my Immune System Get Enough Rest Yes, sleep and rest are important and might even be one of the most important steps to take. Letting your body recharge and giving it a break from all the stress and hard work of the day is crucial for the body to work properly and protect you and the baby. Your immune system, like all the other tasks your body has to perform, only works with a good amount of rest. Drink Enough Water Honestly, water might actually be the cure to many things. It for sure is for staying healthy. Drink 2-3 liters of water throughout the day. Water is recommended but tea can also be counted. Coffee, sweet drinks like sodas, and energy drinks do unfortunately not fall under the ‘healthy’ category and should be avoided. It helps to have a water bottle or a big glass of water that you measure your water consumption in. If you have a one-liter water bottle you only need to drink two to three of those a day and you can bring it wherever you go and measure your water intake even on the road. Eat Nutritious Food You are what you eat! Again this turns out to be very true. You can’t be healthy and boost your immune system only from burgers and fries. It is important to eat vitamins and minerals that can be found in fruits and vegetables. Try eating protein and a low sugar diet and rather choose complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal, wheat bread, quinoa, whole grains, beans, etc. Eating a balanced diet and a good variety of fruit and vegetables can also help you recover way faster if you get sick. But don’t worry, eating a burger once in a while won’t harm you or your baby at all. Sometimes it’s important to eat that comfort food for your mental health and overall happiness so don’t restrict. As long as you switch things up and mix fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and protein you can allow yourself to have a cheat day! Think About Vitamins As your body needs especially many vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system up and running and your body healthy there is the option to take additional vitamins. It is hard to eat as many of them as needed for two people. They don’t replace the vitamins you take in with food but can further help you stay healthy. Talk to your doctor about which vitamins would be beneficial for your situation. Exercise Regularly Exercising on a regular basis is important for so many aspects of life. Not only does it increase the blood flow, lowers stress, and strengthens antibodies, it also makes the immune cells perform efficiently. Avoid Stress Stress for most is difficult to define and you need to listen to your own body and health to see what works for you and what does not. Being stressed out and nervous can weaken our immune system. The stress hormone called corticosteroid in your body can block and stop your immune system from working properly and you can get sick more easily. Coming back to taking care of your body, it is important to check in with yourself to see if you need rest. Think about taking on less work while pregnant if that makes you feel better. Remember it’s not selfish to take time for yourself. In conclusion Being pregnant is often referred to as a miracle yet sometimes while you are in that stage it might not feel like that. It’s important to listen to your own body and do what feels right for you. With these steps above like eating healthy, drinking lots of water, getting rest and exercising regularly, and more you can boost your immune system and keep yourself and your baby healthy and strong. If you choose to take vitamins, ask your doctor or nurse about it and check what will work for your body.

An epidural is a great medicine for reducing the pain during the delivery. It is essentially a small needle and a tiny tube that administers anesthesia into your lower back. The needle is then removed, but the tube remains inside until the medication goes fully inside. After 15 minutes, it will essentially numb your body from your belly button to your legs while keeping you alert and sensitive to pressure. This allows you to continue to push with minimized discomfort during the birth. You can receive an epidural at any time during your delivery, from beginning to middle, to end. The amount of medication received through the epidural can be both increased and decreased throughout the delivery. The doctor will numb the area where the needle goes in so you should only feel a slight stinging sensation. However, you will generally feel very little pain during the injection except for some mild pressure at the site of the insertion. Epidurals are generally very safe procedures and severe complications are exceedingly uncommon. However, there are some lingering effects that all moms should expect if they received an epidural during their pregnancy. Common Side Effects Initial soreness As the epidural wears off after the delivery, you will experience some back cramps and vaginal pain. It's also common to have a small bruise and sore skin in that area. However, both these effects rarely linger for more than 1-2 days after the birth. In the meantime, ice usually helps deal with the soreness. Severe Headaches On some occasions, the needle from the epidural pierces the spinal cord which can cause splitting headaches if left untreated. If this side effect arises, you should discuss treatment with your physician. Difficulty Urinating Since an epidural numbs your nerves from your belly button to your upper legs, the nerves that allow you to control your bladder will also be numb. You may also require a tube to be inserted to empty your bladder. As the epidural wears off, you will also regain bladder control. Low Blood Pressure 14% of women who receive an epidural will feel a drop in their blood pressure, but most experts say it's rarely a cause for concern. An epidural numbs the nerve fibers that control blood vessel muscle contractions. The blood vessels then slowly relax which then lowers the blood pressure. However, if the blood pressure drops too low it can begin to affect the flow of blood to the baby in the womb. To nullify this possibility, most women get IV fluids before they administer the epidural, and their blood pressure is checked throughout the procedure. If your blood pressure continues to drop, you will get some other medication to counteract it. Rare Side Effects Severe Headaches In 1% of deliveries with epidural injections, the needle from the epidural pierces the spinal cord which can cause splitting headaches if left untreated. If this side effect arises, your physician may advise you to use caffeine and fluids to slowly relieve the pain. If it persists, they may administer an epidural blood patch. A small amount of your blood will be injected into the hole where the epidural was injected and when the blood clots, the hole in the spinal cord will close and this should cease your headache within 1-2 hours. Breathing Difficulties On rare occasions, the anesthesia can numb the muscles in your chest that control your breathing. This can lead to a degree of slow breathing. However, this is usually temporary and would be monitored by your physician during the delivery. Infection As with any time you cut an opening in the skin, there is the chance that bacteria might seep in and cause some infection in the skin and can even spread to other parts of your body. This tends to be rare since the needle used for the epidural is usually sterilized before insertion. Seizure In very rare circumstances, an epidural can cause seizures if the pain medication enters one of your veins. Nerve Damage The needle used for the epidural can sometimes hit a nerve which could lead to temporary and sometimes permanent loss of feeling across your lower body. Nerve Damage can also occur if bleeding occurs too close to the area of the spinal cord. According to the American Society of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, this condition only occurs in roughly 1/4000 to 1/200,000 people who receive epidural anesthesia. However, if you feel a numbing sensation after your epidural, let your physician know right away. Common myths about Epidurals Will epidural anesthesia harm the baby? The amount of medication from the epidural that reaches the baby is very small and there is no evidence to say it causes any physical or neurological harm to the baby. Can epidurals slow the labor process or necessitate a C-section surgery? There is also no evidence that the epidural will slow the labor process. When a woman cannot push the baby through the birth canal and requires a C-section, usually the issue has to do with the size of the baby, slow labor progression, or some other medical condition. Even though an epidural does numb the pain, it in no way affects the control you must push your baby through your birth canal. If anything, epidurals are believed to hasten the labor process, not slow it down. Conclusion Even though some of these risks can be quite severe, they are incredibly rare. Almost all physicians consider epidural injections to be a safe and low-risk procedure that dramatically reduces the pain you feel during your pregnancy. However, it always proves prudent to know the side effects in case they do crop up before, during, or after the delivery of your baby.

Telangiectasia, also known as “spider veins”, is a condition where enlarged venules (small blood vessels) cause patterns or lines in the skin. These patterns are usually red, cluster-shaped, and take a certain amount of time to form. The name spider veins come from the fact that the lines and clusters are usually very thin, giving them a look similar to a spider web. Spider veins usually appear on visible areas, such as the nose, lips, and fingers. While they are generally harmless or benign, spider veins can be indicators of more serious vein or blood-related issues. However, in most cases, they are nothing to worry about. What causes them? Spider veins are caused by the weakening of valves, which are responsible for pushing and transporting blood in the direction of the heart. The weak valves will not close fully, allowing a small amount of blood to leak back into the veins. Eventually, the buildup of blood will expand the walls of the veins, causing them to become more visible and prominent. Common risk factors for spider veins include: Chronic alcoholism; which can affect blood flow, as well as the liver Aging; which is related to the weakening of the venous walls Corticosteroids; which can weaken and thin the skin A variety of skin conditions such as dermatomyositis, lupus, or scleroderma Hereditary factors What are some of the symptoms? Spider veins alone, while sometimes uncomfortable, are generally not life-threatening or anything like that. Symptoms can include: -Venous pain -An itching sensation An example of a serious condition where spider veins are commonly present is hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Spider vein clusters form on vital organs and can burst, causing large amounts of hemorrhaging and bleeding. Symptoms of HHT include: Chronic nosebleeds Difficulty breathing Seizures Strokes The appearance of dark, purplish birthmarks Why can women get them during pregnancy? It is common for spider veins to develop during pregnancy. Pregnancy is associated with conditions such as increases in overall blood volume, a slower rate of blood flow, and hormone imbalances. All of these factors can cause greater strain on the veins, making them swell or expand, and causing spider veins. It is a perfectly normal condition during pregnancy, and should not be cause for too much concern. How do you prevent them? Spider veins are usually just a temporary side effect of pregnancy. After pregnancy, when your blood volume drops to normal levels, they should become less prominent, or disappear altogether. In some cases, however, they remain permanently. Another thing to note is if you develop spider veins during pregnancy, you are much more likely to have them during future pregnancies as well. It is not really possible for you to prevent the onset of spider veins entirely. That being said, there are ways you can reduce your risk, and minimize its effects: Eating fibrous foods A diet rich in high fiber foods might help reduce the effects of spider veins during pregnancy. Constipation, which is another common pregnancy side-effect, heavily contributes to the strain on veins. Fibrous foods will help with reducing strain during bowel movements, particularly on the veins in the legs, and minimize the effects of constipation. Some examples of high-fiber foods include: Pears Strawberries Apples Avocado Raspberries Carrots Bananas Chickpeas Good levels of vitamin C Vitamin C is used by the body to produce elastin and collagen, two tissues that help your body maintain and rebuild veins. This will help to reduce the damage done to your veins due to the extra strain on them from the increased blood volume. Vitamin C supplements are widely available and generally safe. Examples of foods rich in Vitamin C are: Citrus fruit Peppers Blackcurrants Broccoli Brussels sprouts Potatoes Regular Exercise Exercise is important for improving blood circulation, as well as the strength of your veins. Because spider veins are especially common on the legs, exercises which target the legs especially are important. Exercising can also help you lose weight. Weight gain is another thing that has negative effects on pre-existing spider veins. Excess weight puts additional strain and pressure on the legs and lower body, causing the veins to expand. Pregnancy is less than ideal for high-intensity workouts, such as sprinting or heavy weight-lifting, so it is probably a better idea for you to do aerobic, lower-intensity workouts. Some examples of these include: Walking Light jogging Swimming Elliptical training Rowing Moderate upper-body strength training Yoga Position for better blood flow When you are resting, mostly sitting, try not to cross your legs, or sit in other ways which can restrict blood flow from the legs. Having them elevated actually encourages blood flow to the heart, aided by gravity, and takes some of the strain off of them. Break up your inactive periods Long periods of sitting or standing can inhibit blood flow to the heart. Standing especially can put pressure on your leg veins because of the weight of gravity on the blood and vessels. If you have to stand for an extended period of time, try shifting your weight from one leg to another, or moving your legs around to encourage blood flow. While you are sitting, try standing up and walking around every 30 minutes or so in order to increase your circulation. Compression stockings Wearing compression stockings, or other compression-designed clothes will help with reducing swelling and improving circulation. They should be worn throughout the day but removed at night. That being said, it is probably a good idea to generally avoid tight clothing, especially anything that constricts your lower-body areas. Cosmetic surgery There are certain procedures that can be done to eliminate the visual side effects of spider veins. Laser treatments are a common, but expensive, method of reducing or eliminating visible spider veins. Another method is sclerotherapy, which is when the spider vein clusters are injected with a special solution, causing them to fade and eventually disappear. It is important to note, however, that both of these procedures pose a great deal of risk to yourself and your child during pregnancy. That is why they can only be performed after the pregnancy is over.

During pregnancy, it is not uncommon for certain women to accumulate high blood sugar levels. This is referred to as gestational diabetes, or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Gestational diabetes usually develops sometime between the 24th to the 28th week of the pregnancy. It has been known to occur in roughly 2-10% of pregnancies. Developing gestational diabetes does not necessarily mean you had diabetes before you were pregnant, or that you will have it permanently following the pregnancy. However, getting it during pregnancy has been linked to a higher possibility of developing diabetes, specifically type 2, afterward. If it is not taken care of properly during pregnancy, the condition can also be a risk factor for the future development of diabetes in the child. Complications during the birth and delivery process can also arise from gestational diabetes. What are the symptoms? Gestational diabetes typically does not cause any symptoms, and any that do occur are generally mild, including: Blurry vision Increased levels of thirst Need to urinate Snoring Fatigue What are the causes? Despite the fact that the exact cause of gestational diabetes is unknown, it is believed that hormones are involved. During pregnancy, your body produces increased amounts of certain hormones, such as those involved with insulin resistance. An overabundance of these hormones can lead to an increased resistance to insulin, which is bad news for your body’s ability to regulate your blood sugar levels. What are some known risk factors? You have a larger chance of developing gestational diabetes if you: Are over 25 Are expected to have more than one baby Have had gestational diabetes previously Have had a stillbirth or miscarriage Have a history of high blood pressure or diabetes Were overweight or obese before your pregnancy Have condition(s) related to insulin resistance Have given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds before How is it diagnosed? It is standard practice for most doctors to semi-regularly screen pregnant women for gestational diabetes. If you are not considered high-risk, in terms of the aforementioned factors, you will probably only be screened during weeks 24 and 28 of the pregnancy. Various blood sugar level tests are carried out to detect gestational diabetes: The glucose test, where you drink a solution of glucose before your blood sugar levels are tested for abnormalities an hour later. You may be required to undergo a period of fasting, where your blood sugar levels will be recorded. After consuming a carbohydrate solution, your levels will be compared to those taken during the fast. This is referred to as the one-step test. Over the course of two days, you will drink two high-sugar solutions. Your blood sugar levels will be recorded and compared as well. This is referred to as the two-step test and does not require any fasting or preparation. Are there different types? There are two types of gestational diabetes: A1 and A2. A1 refers to gestational diabetes which can be managed solely through diet regulation. Cases of A2 will require insulin or medication. What can I do to decrease my risk factors? Although there are no fool-proof methods for preventing gestational diabetes entirely, there are several habits and activities which lower your chances of having it: Aerobic Exercise Aerobic exercise, as opposed to anaerobic, is very important for maintaining a constant level of proper fitness. It involves activities that emphasize cardiovascular conditioning and breathing. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, as well as improving the function of the lungs. Most importantly, for the purposes of preventing gestational diabetes, it is extremely helpful for weight loss and controlling blood sugar levels. Examples of low-impact aerobic exercise include: Walking Cycling Swimming Elliptical training machine Rowing Certain types of upper-body strength training Yoga For people with a busy schedule, or a mid-length commute, activities such as taking the stairs or walking, or cycling to work are especially convenient. Examples of high-impact aerobic exercise include: Running/jogging Moderate skipping rope Intense aerobic routines High-impact aerobic exercises are designed more for people who are regularly active. They require a greater deal of time, energy, and effort, to perform consistently. Stretching and other similar activities are especially vital for high-impact aerobics. During later stages of pregnancy, it is recommended that women perform about 30 minutes of low-impact aerobic exercise per day. High-impact aerobic exercise is better to do prior to the pregnancy, or at least in earlier stages. Because blood sugar levels and Body Mass Index (BMI) are so closely linked, it is important to try as best as possible to maintain a relatively stable body weight both before and during pregnancy. Anaerobic Exercise Anaerobic exercises, on the other hand, are much more fast-paced and intense and rely more heavily on your body’s stores of glycogen to fuel your workouts, as opposed to oxygen. This form of exercise usually requires a greater level of physical fitness and can be more demanding on the body. High-intensity workouts are great for rapid weight loss and muscle development. Anaerobic exercise is not recommended for women who are in the mid-later stages of pregnancy, but it can be excellent for building up muscle and losing weight beforehand, decreasing the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Examples of anaerobic exercise include: Weightlifting Sprinting Intense biking Boxing Jumping Diet While reducing consumption of high-sugar foods has not been shown to directly impact the risk for gestational diabetes, eating a healthy diet will certainly help with controlling weight fluctuations and maintaining a stable BMI. Examples of healthy diet habits include: Smaller portions, or controlled portion, sizes Foods with fructose, such as fruit, as opposed to sucrose, such as candy Vegetables and fibrous grains Avoiding sugary drinks, and sticking mostly to water Lean proteins, such as chicken breast Three square meals a day Avoiding snacking at random hours Low-fat dairy products

We have seen it before in movies, read it in books, heard from other moms giving birth; it is not quick and easy. Labor is hard work and can be incredibly painful. There are a million things that can happen, and if you have given birth before, there might have been more complications than today. We have all heard of things that can happen during pregnancy and labor that seem incredibly scary. What if the baby is in the wrong position? What if I can’t take the pain? What if I have to give birth in the car cause I can’t get to the hospital fast enough? What if my water breaks at an event or when I’m out shopping? There are many fears and things to worry about, and childbirth isn’t a piece of cake. But it is astonishing what the female body can do and go through when having a baby. Your body is equipped with all the things it needs to deliver the baby safely and soundly, but it is understandable to be scared, especially if it is your first baby. What if I need a c-section? In some cases, for example, if the baby isn’t in the proper position or there might be any risk in delivering the baby vaginally, your doctor might advise you to have a c-section. This is basically getting the baby out through your abdomen. The surgery doesn’t take too long, but the healing process does. Good news: every 3rd woman in the United States of America gets a c-section, so there is no need to be scared of the surgery as many women have gone through it before. There are ways to speed up the healing process: by wearing a compression garment, resting, drinking enough water, doing light stretches, etc. With these strategies, you will be on your feet sooner than you think. It’s not the traditional way, but you will not feel any pain while having the surgery, and it can also be planned. There are women that choose to have a c-section because of precisely those factors. What if the pain is too much? Ah, yes. You might think about this often while you are pregnant. How bad is the pain going to be? Maybe you have heard horror stories online or from your friends. The good news is your body makes you remember the pain of childbirth after delivery as less severe. That’s an evolutionary trick to make you want to have another kid. See, our body is smart. But there are actual ways to reduce the pain while in labor. For example, with medication, an epidural will help you if you want it. An excellent way to prepare for the process is to watch videos, read about it and ask other women about it; you can always choose not to go through that much pain and ask for medication. The epidural needle is enormous! The epidural needle is indeed 4 inches long. But before it even reaches you, the area is numbed, and you won’t feel a lot when the needle is injected. There might be a little pressure, but that’s it. You won’t feel any pain, and it will be over sooner than you think. So there is no need to be scared of the needle. I have heard your vagina can tear? Yes, you read that right. It can happen. Half of the women have at least one little tear happen during labor. Giving birth to your first child and gaining weight might make it more likely for you to tear during labor. It happens naturally and most of the time doesn’t even need too much fixing after. You can do things to prevent the tearing by gently massaging the area between your vagina and anus starting a couple of weeks before labor. If you have heard of episiotomy before, it is a cut from your vagina to your anus, but it isn’t used anymore as doctors realized it is better to let it tear by itself. So don’t worry about that. Will I poop when I push? Many women worry about this before going into labor. What if I push and I poop? It’s a common fear, but an unnecessary one. Chances are, nurses and doctors that help you deliver your baby have done it a thousand times before, and every woman going into that delivery room has worried about the same thing. When you push, you have to use muscles that are also in your rectum, and it will most likely happen that with pushing, you will poop. But no need to go crazy; everyone in the room is used to it and will not be surprised. What if I can’t make it to the hospital in time? What if I have to give birth in the car or at home cause I can’t make it to the hospital in time? Here is something to consider: most childbirths have a duration of eight hours. So the chance of you being stuck in traffic for eight hours is slim. What if something goes wrong? It’s an absolutely understandable fear of unexpected things happening that could put you and the baby in danger. You can speak with your doctor about them; chances are your doctor has delivered many babies and knows about complications and what to expect. Most of the complications that could happen can be detected while you are pregnant with an ultrasound, etc. So if there would be some big complication that might have an effect on your baby, your doctors would inform you beforehand, and you could have a c-section if that’s safer. The best way is to talk to doctors and nurses. It Will Be Alright There are many fears going into labor, and you are not alone. Millions of women feel the same way you do. Remember to talk to your doctor or nurse about your fears as they are experienced—they can give you good advice. All in all, don’t worry too much! Your body can do great things.

Labor positions are as old as time itself. Many women do not feel comfortable with the traditional labor position and try out different ones to ease the pain and deliver the baby safely. You might have done your research already, reading books and watching videos on how the delivery will proceed. It might be overwhelming to think about all the things that you need to look out for, and the actual labor might make you feel nervous and stressed. How bad will the pain be? Will I need a c-section? How will I feel afterward? Having a baby is hard work; maybe that’s why they called it labor... In this article, I will tell you all about labor positions, which ones are recommended, and whether they could ease pain and make delivery easier on you. You don't need to stick with the traditional on-your-back labor position that you see on TV. It’s your labor, and you decide if you want a totally different position or switch during the delivery to another one, or even do three throughout the delivery. You can ask your midwife, nurse, or doctor about the various positions. Don’t worry; it's really common for moms to use different labor positions, especially if you don’t take any medication, as every woman has to wait to push until the cervix is fully dilated, which can be quick or take longer depending on your case. Different labor positions can also ease the wait. Why use different labor positions? Even though it is called labor, you still can be as comfortable as possible while giving birth, and that’s what labor positions are for - to provide you with more comfort and ease your pain, as well as open your pelvis and give the baby more room. Common labor positions to try that might ease the pain: There are many labor positions out there. I will give you a list of all the common positions and take out three of them which have the best result and are very common to help many women ease the pain. Walking This labor position works with gravity—and while in delivery, gravity can be your best friend. Your baby will move down the birth canal easier, and your pelvis might have an easier time opening up. You can’t give birth walking around, but it might be a good way to get things going beforehand. Squatting This beloved exercise will come in handy again in labor. It allows the baby to have more room and opens the pelvis. Hands and Knees Another great way to open up the pelvis and might take the pressure off your spine and ease back pain, as well as give the baby more oxygen. Sitting Down Gravity comes in handy again when you sit down. You get some rest, and the perineum can be relaxed, which will reduce tearing. Laying on Your Side You can lay on your side and place a pillow or ball between your legs. This will help the baby move into the correct position. It also makes it easier to relax and can be used if you have high blood pressure. Lunges It seems strange, but lunges can actually help rotate the baby and give it more room. Get someone to support you when making these movements. Certain Scenarios Might Require Different Positions If you have an epidural (the medication injected in your epidural around your spinal cord), you won’t be able to walk around too much. Lying on your side or sitting down might be an option for you. If your baby's heart rate is monitored, you can still try the positions lying on your side, sitting, or squatting. Can there be any complications while I try a labor position? There are cases where certain labor positions can change how your baby’s heart beats, but the midwife, nurse, or doctor will let you know if you have to change positions. The lying on your back position can be advised against because it can put pressure on your blood vessels. All in all, there can be complications in any position, but with your doctor or nurse there, they will monitor you and the baby, so there should be nothing to worry about. Switching from one labor position to another can be beneficial, though. The three best labor positions for a comfortable delivery So what are the three best labor positions for a mostly comfortable delivery? Obviously, that might be different for everyone, depending on your situation and body. Maybe you have had a child before, or this is your first; these are factors that can contribute to comfortable labor. Some doctors say positions—where you are in an upright position—may reduce the duration of your labor as gravity is doing some of the work. Examples of these positions can be: Walking Squatting Sitting These labor positions open your pelvis and give the baby more room as well as push the baby deeper into the birth canal. If you have back pain, it can help reduce that and even make contractions less painful. If you have high blood pressure or your baby needs constant heart monitoring, the doctor might not recommend it for you, and you can try out lying-down positions. Get Ready There may be a range of labor positions that can help you - ask your doctor or nurse what might be best for you and the baby. Generally speaking, upright positions and the help of gravity might speed up your labor a little more. These positions are for your comfort and should help you ease pain and deliver comfortably. Your body will tell you what to do, and you will feel when to switch positions or what will work best for you. Listen to your own intuition. Sometimes you don’t even need to switch between positions too much, and in some cases, it might feel better to do many and keep moving. You can also ask your partner to support you during movements like squatting, etc.—it will make movements easier.

Pregnancy hormones can affect your body in many ways; one of them can be allergies. It is very common for pregnant women to have allergies during pregnancy. It doesn’t matter if you had them before or not, there is still a high chance of developing them when you are pregnant. There are also cases in which the mother doesn't know about their allergies until she gets pregnant, and they intensify. There are seasonal allergies which are your body’s immune system fighting against things that might not even be that bad for you, such as pollen or dust. Pollen allergy is widespread. Over 60 million people in the U.S are allergic to pollen. There are pretty common ones such as cocklebur, grasses, trees, pigweed, tumbleweed, etc. that can cause seasonal allergies. Most of the time, your allergies won’t harm your baby, and your pregnancy won’t be affected by them. Symptoms In many cases, symptoms can look like a congested nose, itching, runny nose, or headaches. If you have had your allergy before, you might know what your symptoms are and how to tell the difference between a runny nose and an allergy. As your hormones change during pregnancy, it’s normal to get a stuffy nose around the second trimester. The reason is estrogen and progesterone, two hormones your body produces during pregnancy can increase the amount of blood running through your body, which can lead to mucus membranes swelling, the cause of your stuffy nose. If you experience itching and swelling in addition to the stuffy nose, then it might be an allergic reaction. Consult a doctor to be sure. Is it safe to take medication? As always, it is essential to ask your doctor about how to treat your allergies. If you have struggled with allergies before, don't use the medication unless your doctor says it is safe to do so. There are some things to look for when taking allergy medication—nasal sprays are safer than oral medications as they are less likely to get into the bloodstream. How to Ease Allergies Saline Nasal Sprays Saline nasal sprays are usually safe to use for women expecting a child. You spray the liquid into your nose to reduce the congestion. Be Aware of Your Triggers If you have experience with allergies, you often know what triggers them and can try to avoid them as much as possible. You might be allergic to pets, dust, or pollen. You could also experience food allergies while pregnant. Nasal Strips These nasal strips can be bought at the pharmacy and are effective in keeping your nasal passage open. They lift both sides of your nose and keep your nose open. Use a Humidifier A humidifier adds moisture to the air and can help you with allergies. It doesn’t destroy the pollen or other allergens in the air but can help your body against them. Benadryl This medicine is usually considered safe for allergy control but check with your doctor. It blocks histamine that your body uses to form an allergic reaction. Get Some Fresh Air Good old physical activity and fresh air can help with a congested nose. Exercise is essential to keeping your body and your kid healthy. Drink water It seems like water is the solution to many things, but drinking water isn’t only good for you and your allergies, it’s also good for your baby. Seasonal Allergies If you think seasonal allergies might bug you, such as pollen, try to wash your clothes and shower after being outside and vacuum often. Pets You might be allergic to your pet's hair. Try to vacuum often. Apple Cider Vinegar It doesn’t taste great at first, but apple cider vinegar boosts your immune system and can support lymphatic drainage. It also helps the PH balance of the body and prevents heartburn, which is common during pregnancy. Just mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water and consume. Is Testing Safe? If you are not sure if you have allergies and your symptoms aren’t clear, an allergy test might be helpful. Some tests are totally safe for mother and baby. A RAST test is an efficient way to test if you have allergies. This test can be done on more than 400 possible allergies. A blood test can cost anywhere from $100 to $200. Check if your insurance covers it, as many providers do. After receiving your results, consult with a doctor to see if you can take medication or how to ease your allergies effectively. Are Allergy Shots Safe? It isn’t recommended to start with allergy shots while pregnant as they can cause allergic reactions that could potentially harm your baby. If you have been doing shots for a while, you and your baby should be fine. Consult a doctor to be sure. Summary Experiencing new or worse allergies than usual is entirely normal while pregnant and many women can get their allergies under control with the help of a doctor and some precautions. It doesn't harm your baby but can be an annoying accompanist during pregnancy. Be aware of seasonal allergies and keep an eye out if you are not sure what might be causing your reaction. You can also do a safe allergy test. Always consult with a doctor before taking medication.