Pregnancy affects almost every part of a woman's daily life. If you develop problems and your doctor has given you specific instructions to follow during your pregnancy, be sure to follow those instructions.

During your pregnancy, you may have questions about many of the following common concerns:

Morning sickness

For many women, the hardest part of early pregnancy is morning sickness. You may be able to use home treatment to help your nausea or vomiting.

• If nausea is worse when you first wake up, eat a small snack (such as crackers) before you get out of bed. Rest a few minutes after eating the snack, then get out of bed slowly.
• Eat regularly. Do not skip meals or go for long periods without eating. An empty stomach can make nausea worse. Eat several small meals every day instead of three large meals.
• Drink enough fluids every day. Do not become dehydrated. Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, may help if you have ongoing vomiting. Ginger tea may help your nausea as well.
• Eat more protein, such as dairy products.
• Do not eat foods high in fat.
• Do not take iron supplements, which can make nausea worse.
• Try to stay away from smells that trigger morning sickness. Citrus juice, milk, coffee, and caffeinated tea may make nausea worse.
• Get lots of rest. Morning sickness may be worse when you are tired.

For more information, see:

Managing morning sickness.

Feeling tired (fatigue)

Most women have some fatigue during pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters. During the first trimester, your body makes higher levels of the hormone progesterone, which may make you feel more tired. You may feel more energy during most of your second trimester. Later in pregnancy, your growing baby and loss of sleep because you cannot find a comfortable position can lower your energy level.

To help with fatigue during pregnancy:

• Eat regularly. Do not skip meals or go for long periods without eating. Choose healthy foods.
• Exercise regularly. Get outside, take walks, or keep your blood moving with your favorite workout. If you do not have your usual energy, do not overdo it.
• Try to take rest breaks often during the day.
• Do only as much as you need to, and do not take on extra activities or responsibilities.

Sleep problems

Sleep problems are common during pregnancy. These tips may help you get a good night's sleep.

• Keep a regular sleep schedule.
• Keep your naps as short as possible.
• Use your bed only for sleep.
• Limit your caffeine, such as coffee, tea, cola drinks, and chocolate.
• Try relaxation methods. For more information, see the topic Stress Management.
• Limit what you drink after 6 p.m. so you do not have to get up to the bathroom during the night.
• Use extra pillows to raise your head or to help you find a comfortable position.

Nonprescription medicine to help relieve discomfort or fever