You’re well into the 6th month of pregnancy, and you are probably already reading and singing to your unborn baby. This is actually the only time you’ll be happy about weight gain, knowing that those extra pounds are beneficial for your baby’s growth. Ensure your daily diet contains a lot of vegetables, fresh fruits and other such foods which are rich in iron, calcium, folic acid and vitamins. At this time, the pregnancy symptoms are normally lighter, but there maybe some unpleasant pains and aches you might experience. Here are the signs and symptoms of being 24 weeks pregnant:

1. Backaches

When you are changing in shape and gaining a new balance center, not to mention the additional pressure the growing uterus is exerting on your body, a backache is quite common during this stage. If the back pain is too severe, you can talk to a doctor. You might also want to get some prenatal massages. There are spas that offer prenatal massages, that are provided by professional masseuses who are well trained in helping you relax during your pregnancy. Be sure you mention your particular due date when booking your appointment. There are also a few things which you do in order to reduce the backaches occurrence. You can start bending your knees, and keeping the back straight whenever you lift something, however, do not pick up anything that’s too heavy. Also, you should sit straight up, and use a pad or a pillow to support the lower back.

2. Constipation

Constipation is another symptom that might continue to trouble you all through your entire pregnancy. Ensure you include fiber rich food in your daily diet, drink lots of liquids, and if your doctor approves, exercise for about 30 minutes a day. Such simple lifestyle changes will help relieve constipation. In case your constipation is too severe, consult with your doctor. He/she might be able to offer a stool softener that’s safe for pregnancy.

3. Forgetfulness

This is another annoying pregnancy symptom which may strike. Hormonal changes, stress and fatigue may contribute to you getting more forgetful. In order to cope with the problem, ensure you keep a close track of all tasks, meetings and appointments. Set alarms, use a planner, or/and keep notebook near at all times.  Sometimes I felt like my brain was Swiss cheese, and it took a while after the baby was born for the fog to clear up.  Rest assured, it’s normal to become a little absentminded.

4. Congestion

You might find that the nose is runny or stuffy, and you’ve no sign of having a viral infection or allergy. This type of condition is known as rhinitis of pregnancy. It is caused by higher levels of body hormones which swell the mucous membranes that are lining your nose. In order for you to cope with the problem, sleep with the head propped. It might also help if you take a steamy bath or shower. Using a vaporizer or humidifier at night may also give you relief from the congestion.

5. Food cravings

An increase in your overall appetite is 1 of the more pleasant pregnancy symptoms which you might notice. It is not uncommon for mothers who are expecting to be constantly hungry. You may struggle with food cravings. While it is okay to give into the food cravings, just ensure you continue eating healthy and making nutritious food choices. Don’t devour everything that’s available in the fridge.  And remember if you have gestational diabetes, continue to follow your meal plan.

6. Weight gain

If you are average-sized, weight gain at twenty four weeks pregnant is usually between 15-17 pounds. In case you were somewhat under weight when you started , you’ll want to gain some few more pounds, and in case you were obese or overweight, you will need to gain lesser pounds.

Other signs and symptoms:

-Indigestion and heartburn
-Braxton hicks contractions
-Linea nigra
-Swelling or edema on the legs and arms
-Itchy, dry eyes and sensitivity to light
-Leg cramps
-Blurred vision
-Back pains as well as aches on the ribs, joints and hips
-Stretch marks, particularly on your hips, abdomen and breasts
-Feeling dizzy or feeling faint when you get up way too quickly after sitting or staying in a lying position for an extended period of time (this happens since the increased volume of blood slows down the bloods’ circulation, thus temporarily lowering the blood pressure)
-Mood swings and depression
-Itchy rash on your expanding belly, back and thighs
-Some dark patches on some skin areas and also skin tags

When to consult a doctor

-When having the symptoms of vaginal bleeding and/or spotting with menstrual like abdominal cramp or dull lower back pains, feeling great pressure in the pelvic region, diarrhea, uterine contraction or/and leaking thin and clear fluid (combination of the aforementioned symptoms may indicate preterm labor)
-Persistent headaches along with extreme tiredness/fatigue, sudden vision changes, sudden swelling near the feet and ankles, upper stomach pains and breath shortness (this may indicate pre eclampsia)
-Having the combination of symptoms which include: severe fatigue, severe nausea, extreme thirst, vision problem and increased need to urinate (this may indicate gestational diabetes)
-One sided abdominal pain, blood in the urine, pain during urination and a urinary tract infection (this may indicate the development of kidney stone(s) as pregnancy usually increases risks of the condition)
-Burning sensations during urination accompanied by lower back pains, yellowish jelly like discharge or a thick white discharge (this may indicate a kidney infection or a yeast infection)
-Experiencing mild stomach cramps, light spotting, pelvic pressure or/and a change in the vaginal discharge (this may indicate an open cervix or a cervical insufficiency)
-Diarrhea or severe vomiting which lasts for more than 24 hours

Tips

-You can use over the counter eye drops (after you consult with your doctor), to fight the itchy and dry eyes.
-Keep your feet elevated when sitting down as this helps to reduce swelling.
-Follow a light exercise plan or routine (you can go for short walks every day), or you can do prenatal yoga, as this helps in maintaining good posture, fighting 2nd trimester symptoms such as back aches and edema, as well as it prepares the body for the labor stage and delivery.
-Start keeping count of the baby’s movement.
-Practice sleeping on the left side as this improves the blood circulation in the body; lying on the back basically restricts the flow of blood to placenta by exerting pressure on major veins.
-Consult your doctor prior to using products such as hair color, stretch mark creams or/and moisturizers.

Hope this helps you to at least feel better about the sometimes difficult side effects of pregnancy.  You are bringing life into the world, and it’s a life that is important, so don’t forget that.  And it’s temporary.  Join our mailing list to hear more!