Pregnancy has an impact on most aspects of a woman's daily life.

Normal physical changes and symptoms

Although they can range from mild to severe, the following conditions are normal during pregnancy. For more information and tips on how to manage these problems, see:

• Fatigue.
• Morning sickness.
• Sleep problems.
• Breast changes.
• Heartburn (a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD).
• Nosebleeds and bleeding gums.
• Hemorrhoids and constipation.
• Varicose veins.
• Hair changes.
• Stretch marks, itchiness, and other skin changes.
• Leg cramps.
• Back pain and sciatica.
• Pelvic ache and hip pain.
• Hand pain, numbness, or weakness (carpal tunnel syndrome).

Managing morning sickness

Lifestyle issues

Pregnancy makes it necessary to make changes in your daily activities and relationships.

• Nutrition and weight gain may require more attention than usual, and dieting is never a healthy practice during pregnancy.
• Sex causes no problems during an uncomplicated pregnancy, and sexual interest often changes during different phases of a pregnancy. If you are concerned about exposure to a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sex or use a condom.
• Changes in the relationship with your partner are inevitable, as your focus shifts to your own and your future child's well-being.
• Emotional changes are normal throughout pregnancy.
• Handling pregnancy and parenting can be a challenge. Rest whenever you can. Preparing your other child or children ahead of time helps your family adjust to the demands of a newborn.
• Exercise helps your body best handle labor, delivery, and recovery. Moderate activity such as brisk walking is ideal during pregnancy.
• Working or going to school, if it isn't too physically demanding, is usually fine during pregnancy. Scale back if you're becoming too worn down as your pregnancy progresses. Talk to your doctor or nurse-midwife if you are at risk for preterm labor.
• Travel is usually a safe choice until later pregnancy. Talk to your health professional if you have any concerns. During your third trimester, it's best to stay within a few hours of a hospital, in case of sudden changes that need medical attention.
• Wearing a seat belt is vital to protect yourself and your baby during pregnancy.
• Massage during pregnancy is safe when it is done by a specially trained massage therapist.

Health concerns

• Vaginal bleeding may or may not be a sign of trouble-report any bleeding to your health professional right away.
• Medication use (including herbal remedies) during pregnancy should always be approved by your health professional, to prevent fetal harm.
• Urinary tract infection is common during pregnancy and must be treated with antibiotics to prevent a dangerous infection or preterm labor.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) that causes symptoms is usually treated with oral antibiotics.
• RhoGAM (Rh immune globulin) treatment is necessary if you have Rh-negative blood and your partner is Rh-positive, to prevent Rh sensitization.