2nd Trimester common discomfort Flashcards
Physiologic cause for pregnancy constipation
Due to the slowing down of the movements in the belly by pregnancy hormone. Also could be caused by iron supplements, low fiber diet and history of constipation
Most important factors that indicate normalcy in pregnancy constipation
No blood in stool
Hard/dry stools noted
Generalized abdominal pain
Relief measures for constipation
High fiber diet
Ensure adequate hydration
Exercise routinely
Defecate after meals
Avoid Valsalva straining during bowel movement
Danger:
Blood in stool
Physiological cause of pregnancy flatulence
Pregnancy hormone slows the gastrointestinal system which causes gas to build up in the gut
differential for pregnancy flatulence
Dietary sensitivities
IBS
Celiac disease
appendicitis
IBS
GI disorder
Relief measures for pregnancy flatulence
Eat six smaller meals per day to avoid digestive system overload
Avoid gas-producing foods such as cabbage, beans, fried food and onions
Eat slowly to reduce air swallowing
chew food thoroughly
take a probiotic to balance bowel flora
Brisk walking or exercise helps mobilize gas and provide relief
Physiological cause for pregnancy hemorrhoids
Progesterone induced relaxation of the vein walls in the rectum along with the enlarged uterus, causes pelvic venous congestion
Most important factors that indicate normalcy of pregnancy hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids is seen with no abnormal color
rectal itching
No black tarry stools reported
slight blood on tissue after wiping from bowel movement
Relief measures for pregnancy hemorrhoids
Increase dietary fiber
Avoid prolonged toilet sitting
Practice proper anal cleansing after bowel movement
Avoid constipation and straining during defecation
Use with hazel compresses or epsom salt compresses
Topical anesthetics and topical cortisone creams or suppositories are safe
Physiological cause of leukorrhea
Due to increase in pelvic blood flow
Most important factors that indicate normalcy for leukorrhea
R/U STI
No itching…sx of vaginitis
No foul odor
No pain
Discharge is clear to white in color
Mild but not offensive odor
Differential dx for Leukorrhea
STI
Vaginitis
Ruptured membranes
Preterm labor
Relief measures for Leukorrhea
Avoid douching or using feminine hygiene sprays
Avoid self-treatment with OTC medications
Wear absorbent cotton underwear
Change underwear several times per day
important factors that confirm normalcy of nasal congestion in pregnancy
No sinus pressure/pain
No discolored discharge
No cough
No allergic sx
No other signs of respiratory infection
Physiological cause for nasal congestion in pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones cause increase swelling and blood flow to nasal wall, this causes pressures inside the nostril leading to nasal congestion
