Many pregnancy discomforts can be relieved with good diet, hydration, gentle exercise, and rest. Listed below are several common pregnancy discomforts. The recommended suggestions are a good starting point for improvement. If these suggestions don’t provide relief, then looking into additional therapies may be helpful. The herbs suggested are safe during pregnancy, although talk to your care provider for any additional questions or concerns.

SHORTNESS OF BREATH

Often during pregnancy, many women feel as if they are not able to breathe as deeply. This is because the growing fetus and uterus pushes against the diaphragm making the vertical space to the lungs shorter. Your body compensates for this by increasing the width of the rib cage. Therefore, your intake of oxygen is the same.

Recommended: Stretch with arms above your head often; gentle exercise

Additional therapies: Aromatherapy