Being pregnant should be one of the happiest times of your life with all the expectations and dreams for the future. However, there are a number of some symptoms of pregnancy that can make this time quite uncomfortable. Here are a few of the more common:

Morning sickness affects up to 70% of pregnant women. This includes nausea, and sometimes vomiting, especially in the morning (hence its name). You might go off certain foods because the smell makes you feel queasy. The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown, but it is thought to be hormonal in nature. The good news is that the symptoms tend to disappear after the first three months.

Up to 50% of pregnant women will suffer from constipation. Increases in the level of progesterone, plus increased absorption of water in the colon are to blame for this. Again this problem is more likely to occur in the first 3 months of pregnancy, though constipation can be a problem at any time. You doctor will likely supply you with fibre supplements, but consider taking a mild laxative like milk of magnesia (consult your doctor first about this). Also, it is advisable to drink plenty of fluids, as this will help alleviate the constipation.

Backache is obviously going to be a major problem. With a developing baby pushing your abdomen out, and forward, greater stresses are placed on your spine. An increase in the hollow at the base of the spine as the baby develops also causes problems. Try avoid lifting heavy weights during pregnancy, and also make sure you have good support from your mattress. You can buy a support belt that lifts the abdomen and encourages better posture. These belts are safe, and can eliminate back pain.

Another common problem is fatigue. Its not surprising really considering the enormous stress you are putting on your circulatory system to ensure your developing baby gets the nutrients it needs to grow. The best advice for fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take naps, and go to bed early.

Another problem affecting over 50% of pregnant women is heartburn. This is caused by acid in your stomach travelling back up your oesophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach). Although hormones can cause heartburn, as pregnancy develops, your uterus enlarges and pushes your stomach out of position. This is then thought to contribute to heartburn. The best advice to help with this problem is eat smaller meals more often (so your stomach is never really full), and drink plenty of fluids. Also avoid coffee.