Common Problems in Pregnancy
Pregnancy Care in Overland Park and Shawnee Mission
Our obstetricians are highly trained to care for the many problems and concerns that can occur during pregnancy and are here to guide you through every step of the way. Every pregnancy is unique and can leave moms asking “is this normal?”. This information is designed to address some of the most common problems that can occur during pregnancy. If you have further questions or concerns regarding your pregnancy or symptoms you are experiencing, call (913) 384-4990 to schedule an appointment at our office in Shawnee Mission or Overland Park today!
Allergies
Approved medications: Claritin, Claritin D, Zyrtec, Zyrtec D, Allegra, Allegra-D, Flonase, and Nasacort.
Back Pain
Stretching, applying heat to the affected area and staying hydrated are the most effective treatments for this very common problem in pregnant women. Maternity belts, massage therapy, and physical therapy can also be used to provide relief.
On rare occasions, back pain can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or premature labor. Call the Women’s Care OBGYN office if your temperature is higher than 100.4° F, if you experience burning with urination, have six or more contractions an hour, or notice spotting.
Approved medications: Tylenol, Icy Hot, or Bengay.
Constipation
Pregnancy, Zofran (a prescribed medication to reduce nausea and vomiting), and pain medications can all increase the risk of constipation. Staying well hydrated and eating a diet rich in fiber helps prevent this condition.
Approved medications: Colace, Senekot, Dulcolax, any fiber supplement, Miralax, Fleets Enema, and Milk of Magnesia.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is usually self-limited, as it typically lasts for approximately 24-36 hours. It is important to stay properly hydrated if this occurs. You should call the Women’s Care OBGYN office if symptoms last longer than 36 hours, or if you have a temperature higher than 100.4° F.
Approved medications: Imodium AD or Kaopectate.
Dizziness
Dizziness is not uncommon during pregnancy and can sometimes be associated with the feeling that you will pass out. If this happens to you, immediately sit down and lower your head. The most common causes of dizziness are dehydration or low blood sugar.
Drinking a lot of water, eating small, frequent meals, and changing positions slowly can all help to alleviate these symptoms.
Gas
Gas can increase during pregnancy and can often be associated with certain foods in your diet.
Approved medications: Simethicon, Gas-X, Mylicon, and Maalox.
Headaches
Pregnancy can increase the frequency of headaches. Avoiding dehydration or low blood sugar can prevent them. Allergies and sinus problems can also cause headaches.
If you have a headache that is severe, persistent, or associated with blurred vision please contact our office immediately.
Approved medications: Tylenol, Extra Strength Tylenol, allergy and sinus medications.
Heartburn
Certain foods, eating before bedtime, or eating large meals can all cause heartburn. To help prevent heartburn it is advised to avoid eating four hours prior to bedtime. You can also prop your head up with a pillow while sleeping to reduce your symptoms.
Approved medications: Pepcid, Mylanta, Maalox, Prevacid, Tums, Zantac, Prilosec, and Nexium.
Insomnia
Approved medications: Benadryl, Unisom and Tylenol PM.
Hemorrhoids
Avoiding constipation is helpful in preventing painful hemorrhoids. Again, 6-8 glasses of water per day and fiber in your diet will help.
Approved medications: Tucks, Preparation H and Annusol Cream or suppositories.
Sore Throats, Cough and Colds
These symptoms are most commonly the result of a virus, meaning that antibiotics are not an effective treatment method. If these symptoms are persistent, are accompanied by green drainage, or if you have a temperature over 100.4° F, then bacteria could be the cause of the infection. In these cases, an antibiotic may be appropriate. Call our office at (913) 384-4990 if this occurs.
Approved medications: Mucinex, Actifed, Sudafed, Benadryl, Tylenol Cold & Sinus, Chlortrimeton, Saline or Vicks nasal spray, any cough drops, Chloraseptic Spray and Robitussen, Robitussen DM, Airborne, Zicam and Emergen-C, and Delsym.
Nausea and Vomiting
Both of these symptoms are very common during pregnancy and are often worse during the first 12 weeks. It is best to eat small, frequent meals. Bland foods at room temperature and easy-to-digest foods are often better tolerated. Try to stay as hydrated as possible. If you are unable to keep any food or liquids down for over 6 hours please contact our office.
Approved medications: Vitamin B6, Ginger, Sea Bands, and Unisom.
OTC Medications That Are NOT Recommended
Unless you receive approval directly from your physician we recommend that expectant mothers avoid the following over-the-counter medications: Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, and Pepto Bismol.
If you are diabetic, please make sure any medications you use are sugar-free products.