COMPLAINTS DURING PREGNANCY

The following are complaints that may occur during pregnancy :

Back pain 

A particularly common complaint in the third trimester when the patient'scenter of gravity has shifted.

Constipation

A complaint that is caused by decreased bowel motility secondary to elevated progesterone ( normal in pregnancy ), which can lead to greater absorption of water.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Occasional, irregular, painless contractions that occur several times per day.

EdemaCommon complaint in advancing pregnancy. 

Caused by compression of the inferiorvena cava ( IVC ) and pelvic veins by the uterus leads to increased hydrostatic pressure in lower extremities.

Regurgitation, heartburn and nausea

Common complaints that may be caused by Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease ( GERD) ; this is determined by relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter ( LES )and increased transit time in the stomach ( normal in pregnancy ).

Haemorrhoids

Complaint that is often noted in advancing pregnancy. Caused by increasedvenous stasis and IVC compression leading to congestion in venous system alongwith increased abdominal pressure secondary to the pregnant space-occupyinguterus and constipation.

Pelvic girdle pain

A common complaint is pain, instability or dysfunction of the symphysis pubis and /or sacroiliac joints resulting from either excess strain or injury ( suchas Diastasis symphysis pubis ) during the course of the pregnancy or birthing process.

Increased urinary frequency

A common complaint referred by the gravida that is caused by increased intravascular volume, elevated GFR ( glomerular filtration rate ), andcompression of the bladder by the expanding uterus.

Varicose veins

Common complaint caused by relaxation of the venous smooth muscle and increased intravascular pressure.

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