LouAnn M.

Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman's life. Your body is going through so many changes, and it can be pretty overwhelming at times. One of the most challenging things to deal with during pregnancy is hormones. They can cause all sorts of problems, from mood swings to swollen body parts. Here are some tips for navigating these changing hormones. 1. Get Plenty of Rest One of the best things you can do for your body during pregnancy is to get plenty of rest. Your body is working hard to create a new life, and it needs all the rest it can get. Make sure to schedule some downtime each day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Take a nap if you can, or just put your feet up and relax. If you're having trouble sleeping, there are a few things you can try. Talk to your doctor about taking a sleep aid, or try using a noise machine to help you drift off. You may also want to avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening so that it doesn't keep you up at night. Getting enough rest will help your body deal with the hormonal changes better, and it will also help reduce swelling. 2. Eat a Healthy Diet Another tip for dealing with hormones during pregnancy is to eat a healthy diet. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help your body cope with all the changes it's going through. Avoid processed foods and too much sugar, as they can worsen mood swings. Make sure to drink plenty of water, too, as dehydration can also contribute to moodiness. 3. Visit a Dermatologist According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 85% of individuals aged 12 to 24 have at least minor acne. For many, this is the first time they experience skin problems. If you're pregnant and struggling with acne, visit a dermatologist. They can prescribe medications that are safe to use during pregnancy and help clear up your skin. Don't try to treat acne with over-the-counter products, as they may not be safe for use during pregnancy. Acne isn't the only skin issue that can crop up during pregnancy. You may also notice stretch marks or spider veins. These are both completely normal and usually nothing to worry about. If you're concerned about them, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. 4. Embrace Skin Care Routines One of the best things you can do for your skin during pregnancy is to develop a good skincare routine. Cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing will help keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Most aestheticians also recommend getting a professional facial every month or so. This can help keep your skin looking its best and prevent breakouts. You may also want to consider using a product like Bio-Oil, which is safe for use during pregnancy. It's great for preventing stretch marks and keeping your skin hydrated. Apply it twice a day after you shower or bathe. 5. Massage Swollen Areas If you're dealing with swelling, one of the best things you can do is massage the affected areas. This will help increase circulation and reduce pain. Start by massaging your feet and then move up to your calves and thighs. If you're having trouble reaching your feet, ask your partner or a friend for help. You can also use a foam roller to massage your back and legs. Your fingers could also become swollen during pregnancy, making it difficult to wear rings, or they could even get stuck. If this happens, try submerging your hand in ice-cold water for 20 seconds. This will help reduce the swelling and make it easier to remove the ring. Hopefully, these tips will help you navigate the hormonal changes and swollen body parts during pregnancy. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you find ways to deal with the changes and make sure that you and your baby are healthy.