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I'm not sure if this belongs in a different subforum. The way I figure it, one of the mods could always move it.

One of the biggest arguments, and perhaps bigest, argument for legalising abortion is the health risk pregnancy has to the mother. There's plenty of times when I've seen a long list of possible symptoms displayed in the abortion debate. It is usually used to imply that abortion is necesary for safer state of health. Now sureley there is a better way to drastically reduce the chances of these symptoms and even eliminate most of them. Let's take a look at the list of symptoms provided by http://www.gate.net/~liz/liz/004.htm :

Normal, frequent or expectable temporary side effects of pregnancy:

* exhaustion (weariness common from first weeks)
Rest. Take naps during the day or after work. If you need to go to bed at 7 p.m. to feel rested, do so. This is a symptom that has no solution other than sleep.
Avoid taking on extra responsibilities. Cut down on volunteer commitments and social events if they're wearing you out.
Ask for the support you need. Get your partner or children to help out as much as possible.
Exercise regularly. Moderate exercise, such as walking for 30 minutes a day, can help you feel more alert and energetic.
Eat foods rich in iron and protein. Skimping on these nutrients can aggravate your fatigue. Foods rich in both iron and protein include red meat, seafood, poultry and eggs. Other good sources of iron include whole-grain or iron-fortified cereals, breads and pastas.
Avoid stimulants. Avoid caffeine, which may be harmful in high doses. Any product marketed for relieving fatigue and enhancing wakefulness is unsafe in pregnancy.
* altered appetite and senses of taste and smell
* nausea and vomiting (50% of women, first trimester)
Vitamin B6 or Vitamin B6 plus doxylamine (an antihistamine), Antihistamine H1 receptor blockers, phenothiazines, and benzamines can all be helpful. Munch a few crackers before getting up in the morning.
Eat several small meals a day so that your stomach is never empty.
Avoid anything that causes nausea.
Drink plenty of liquids, especially if you've been vomiting. Try crushed ice, fruit juice or frozen ice pops if water upsets your stomach.
Try wearing a motion sickness band, which may relieve nausea by pressing on an acupressure point inside the wrist.
Suck on hard candy.
Try ginger, which has proved effective in combating morning sickness. Some ways to consume the spice include ginger soda or tea, gingersnaps or ginger in capsule form.
* heartburn and indigestion
Eat several small meals instead of two or three large ones. No matter how small the meal, eat slowly.
Avoid common heartburn triggers, such as fried foods, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, garlic and onion.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Avoid coffee. Both regular and decaffeinated coffee may worsen heartburn.
Stay up for two to three hours after your evening meal. If your heartburn comes on when you recline, raise the head of your bed four to six inches.
Talk to your physician about using antacids or other medications that relieve heartburn. These products can be used safely in pregnancy, but your physician should know which ones you take and how often you take them.
* constipation
Try to eat on a regular schedule.
Drink plenty of liquids - at least eight to 10 glasses a day.
Get some exercise every day.
Eat high-fiber fruits, vegetables and grains such as whole wheat and oatmeal.
Try fiber supplements, such as psyllium powder, Metamucil, Konsyl, Fiberall or Citrucel. A mild laxative such as milk of magnesia is safe, but don't take any other laxative without discussing it with your doctor.
* dizziness and light-headedness
Arise slowly as you get up from lying or sitting down.
Walk at a slower pace and take frequent rest breaks.
Avoid prolonged standing.
Instead of lying flat on your back, lie on your side. A pillow tucked under your abdomen may make this position more comfortable.
Guard against overheating. Saunas and hot tubs may increase the chance of fainting. Take cooler baths and showers, use air conditioning when needed, and avoid warm, crowded areas.
Stay physically active to improve blood circulation. Good activities include walking, water aerobics and prenatal yoga.
Drink plenty of fluids, particularly early in the day.
Eat iron-rich foods such as beans, red meat, green leafy vegetables and dried fruits to help your body get the iron needed to build red blood cells.
* fluid retention
Keep moving throughout the day. If you have to stand for long periods, shift your weight between your legs and stretch your legs periodically.
Wear support hose to help promote circulation in your legs.
Exercise regularly if possible.
When sitting or resting, elevate your feet and legs to reduce swelling.
Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight or uncomfortable.
Wear flats if possible.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help reduce water retention.
* hemmorhoids
Most importantly you should focus on eating a high fiber diet complemented by plenty of fluids. This will help keep you more regular and reduce the amount of constipation you experience during pregnancy. More often than not hemorrhoids result from constipation. Your best chance for preventing them is to stay as regular as possible during pregnancy. You might even consider drinking a cup of prune juice daily to help promote regular bowel movements.

If you develop hemorrhoids try a sitz bath. Most drugstores sell the supplies you need for a sitz bath. Basically this is just a mini bath that allows you to soak your rectum in warm water. This can help relieve the pain and irritation associated with hemorrhoids.

Try using an ice pack or other cold compress on the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and help minimize the pain associated with hemorrhoids.

Try using hemorrhoid pads. These contain witch hazel, and are generally safe to use during pregnancy. While there are other hemorrhoid related products on the market, you should check in with your doctor before using them during pregnancy. Some may result in more irritation than when you started. Remember that skin is overly sensitive when pregnant, hence it is best to err on the side of caution.

Wipe gently when pregnant. This will help reduce irritation and help prevent bleeding from hemorrhoids. You may find pre-moistened feminine cleansers or wipes more useful than toilet paper when dealing with hemorrhoids.

Kegel exercises may also help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy. These handy little exercises help promote greater circulation in the rectal and vaginal areas during pregnancy. They can also strengthen the muscles supporting the rectum, further reducing the likelihood that you will develop hemorrhoids. Fortunately most hemorrhoids are easily treated and disappear on their own with proper care and attention.

* abdominal cramps
Heating pad, warm bath and if necessary take part of a Tylenol. Note: If they are severe and there is spotting, go to the doctor.
* yeast infections
It is caused by the overgrowth of a fungus called candidiasis, when natural competitors such as bacteria are lowered in numbers. Neither a bacterial nor a yeast infection presents a direct hazard to your baby, and both can be treated during pregnancy. Yeast infections are more common due to the effect of pregnancy hormones on the vaginal environment. Bacterial vaginosis is no more frequent in pregnant women than in other sexually active women. It can be treated with perscripion drugs like antimycotics. Allicin, which is found garlic and Pau d'arco tea, is a powerful natural remedy against fungi. Foods like yogurt, kefir, and raw-green vegetables are also useful.
* congested, bloody nose
Try using a humidifier in your room at night to keep the air moist in your room. Dry air can dry out mucous membranes and contribute to nosebleeds.
Avoid blowing too hard particularly when you have a cold. Use soft tissue products like those with aloe to help soothe your nose.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids during the day to keep your mucous membranes functioning properly. Dry mucous membranes are more likely to bleed than well hydrated ones.
Try an over the counter nasal lubricant if you experience frequent nosebleeds. As an alternative you may try a little dab of petroleum jelly on the inside of your nose to help prevent the membranes from drying out.
* acne and mild skin disorders
Always get plenty of sleep. Getting enough sleep will allow you to look refreshed and will help keep your skin healthy and less wrinkle prone.Use sunscreen religiously. Even if you don't suffer from melasma, your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy. You should always use a moisturizer or sun block with an SPF 15 or higher.
Clean your face and neck regularly. Pimples will be much worse if pores are clogged. Be sure to clean your face using a gentle cleanser and light moisturizer during pregnancy.
Try a facial. Facial's can help improve acne and can help stimulate circulation in the skin, improving the appearance of the skin and providing you with a natural, healthy looking glow.
Moisturize every day. A good moisturizer will keep the skin looking soft and supple throughout your pregnancy. If you are acne prone try a light, water-based lubricant to prevent pores from clogging. The same is true for oily skin.
* skin discoloration (chloasma, face and abdomen)
See above.
* mild to severe backache and strain
Exercise to prevent low back pain in early pregnancy - Starting an exercise program early in pregnancy can help strengthen and stretch the muscles in your back and legs. Swimming is an excellent exercise for women at all stages of pregnancy and helps strengthen the lower back. In addition the buoyancy of the water may help alleviate the strain you are experiencing in pregnancy back pain, joints and ligaments. Pregnancy pillows will also help to alleviate that lower back strain.

Sit up Straight to avoid back pain with pregnancy - If you find yourself sitting at a computer terminal or sitting in general for long periods of time, make an effort to keep your feet slightly raised off the floor. Take frequent breaks to get up and walk around which will help stretch your muscles and ligament and relieve back pain during pregnancy.
Wear Comfortable Shoes to avoid back pain - For most pregnant women, comfortable shoes are those that are low profile. High heels are not recommended, particularly if you want to avoid unnecessary back pain in pregnancy. When you get home take those shoes off and snuggle with your pregnancy pillow.

Bend from the Knees if you want to avoid back pain - If you have to lift objects, bend from your knees and not your waist. This will help prevent injury.

There are also some modalities you can use to help alleviate back pain during pregnancy. Among these are maternity support belts and pregnancy pillows. With walking support belts add that extra support needed for comfort and at night a Snoozer pregnancy pillow provides support in all the right places.
* increased headaches
Warm or cold compresses. To soothe a headache in the sinus area, apply warm compresses to the front and sides of your face and around your nose, eyes and temples. To relieve a tension headache, apply a cold compress to the back of your neck.
Reduce stress. Avoid placing yourself in stressful situations. Relaxation exercises, which may consist of deep breathing or simply closing your eyes and imagining a peaceful scene, may also help.
Rest and exercise. Resting in a dark, quiet room can soothe headaches. Getting enough sleep and exercise can also be helpful. Always be sure to find out from your health care provider what exercises are safe for you, and how long you can maintain your exercise program.
Eat well-balanced meals. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help keep your blood sugar from getting too low.
Maintain good posture, especially during the third trimester.
Get a massage. Massaging your temples, shoulders and neck can help reduce the pain of headaches.
Avoid headache triggers. Different kinds of food or stresses can trigger headaches. Keep a diary, and review the kinds of foods and activities that tend to trigger tension or migraine headaches. Triggers of migraine headaches include certain foods, such as chocolate, aged cheese, peanuts and preserved meats.
When to Talk to Your Health Care Provider
Most headaches during pregnancy are harmless, but headaches can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. If you have a migraine for the first time during pregnancy, or if you have a headache that feels unlike any you’ve experienced before, call your health care provider to make sure it is not a sign of more serious problems.

Call your health care provider right away if your headache:

Is sudden and explosive or includes a violent pain that awakens you from sleep
Is accompanied by fever and stiff neck
Becomes increasingly worse, and you have vision changes, slurred speech, drowsiness, numbness or a change in sensation or alertness
Occurs after falling or hitting your head
Is accompanied by nasal congestion, pain and pressure underneath your eyes, or dental pain (since this may be a sign of sinus infection)
* difficulty sleeping, and discomfort while sleeping
Good positions and extra padding from a full pregnancy pillow are often the key to a good night's sleep during pregnancy. Most women find that laying on their right or left side is most comfortable during pregnancy. Laying on your back is not recommended, as this can compress your inferior vena cava. If you compress this vein you'll find your blood flow restricted and you may feel lightheaded while laying down or upon rising. The left sided sleep position is easily achieved with a pregnancy pillow.

Most doctors recommend that pregnant women lie on their left side. This promotes optimal blood flow to your body and uterus. If however you find that you are more comfortable on your right side, there is no reason you shouldn't sleep on this side. Most women will also find they need added support while sleeping. This can most easily be accomplished through use of a body pillow. You may find it helps to tuck a body pillow under your belly and legs, and then also use a smaller pillow to support your back so you don't roll over on your back while sleeping.

If you do find you rolled onto your back while sleeping, don't panic. Simply roll back onto one of your sides and go back to sleep. Most women will find a position they are comfortable enough in to catch some zzz's. Some women find they do best in a semi-reclined position. You may for example find that you sleep better in a recliner or in a position similar to that a recliner might put you in. If this is the case, go for it. What matters is your comfort, not the exact position you fall asleep in.

You may find it helpful to tuck various sized pregnancy pillows in other locations during your pregnancy. Some women like a little extra lift under the arms while some even like a light pillow resting gently on top of their head. Don't worry about what seems ordinary or extraordinary. Again during pregnancy the key is your comfort.

Quieting Your Mind To Sleep
Most pregnant women find their thoughts race incredibly while pregnant. This can contribute as much to lack of sleep as can a bad position or lack of a body pillow. Prior to bed you should take several steps to ensure you can quite your mind enough to sleep while pregnant. This may include engaging in a bedtime ritual to help you sleep.

Many women find drawing a warm bath or taking a warm shower prior to bedtime helps them relax enough to fall asleep. Others find sipping a bit of chamomile tea and inhaling a small bit of lavender essential oil is all that is needed to help them fall asleep. If you find your thoughts tend to ramble the moment your head hits the pillow, try writing in a journal for a few minutes before sleeping. Simply keep a pen and pad near your bed. Spend ten to fifteen minutes writing down your random thoughts or worries before going to bed, then leave them in the journal when you go to sleep. While you may find this a bit challenging the first few nights, once you get into the habit you should find you start sleeping much easier with a regular routine.

Last but certainly not least, be sure you avoid products with caffeine in the hours leading up to your bedtime. Even a small amount of caffeine (like that contained in chocolate) may be all that is necessary to disrupt a pregnant woman's system and keep her awake. Instead try heating a bit of milk with some honey, which helps induce a naturally relaxed state prior to bedtime. Keep your cup small however, so you won't have to rush up and use the bathroom just as you are nodding off to sleep!
* increased urination and incontinence
You will need to drink plenty of fluid to keep hydrated during pregnancy. Don't think for a moment that reducing your fluid intake is the key to avoiding the bathroom frequently. Your best bet is avoiding diuretic fluids that can contribute to the sense of urgency you feel when you have to pee. These include caffeine products like tea, soda or coffee. You might try consuming most of your fluids during the day to reduce the number of trips you have to make to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

When using the bathroom, you may find it helps to lean forward a bit to ensure you completely empty out your bladder. Many women find they have to pee again shortly after a visit to the bathroom simply because they were not able to empty their bladder fully. This is more common in the later stages of pregnancy.

Many women will experience temporary urinary incontinence during pregnancy. Sometimes referred to as stress incontinence, many women find they leak some urine when lifting, bending, sneezing or even coughing. Certain forms of exercise may also worsen the problem. Temporary or stress incontinence is most likely to occur during the third trimester when the uterus is placing the most amount of pressure on the bladder. You can help alleviate the problem by emptying your bladder as frequently as possible and wearing a light pad to help catch any leaking.

Kegel exercises can also help with urinary incontinence. Kegels help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. While this may not resolve the problem completely it may help reduce the stress incontinence you experience during pregnancy. Kegel exercises can also help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles after delivery.
* bleeding gums
Brush your teeth and gums routinely. For most people that means brushing at least two times per day, or at the minimum after each meal. When you do brush you should make a point to do so for at least five minutes.
Floss routinely. Flossing is important for preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease. Try a thin floss or waxed floss if you find your gums are sensitive during pregnancy.
Invest in a soft toothbrush. Your gums and teeth are much more sensitive during pregnancy. You should also take care to brush gently when pregnant. Applying ice to your gums may help alleviate soreness or swelling you experience during pregnancy.
Avoid sugary foods. These will only contribute to gingivitis and decay.
* pica
For those that don't know, pica is an eating disorder where the patient gains an appetite for things that are non-edible, such as dirt or wood. It's not serious as long as the patient uses common sense.
* breast pain and discharge
* swelling of joints, leg cramps, joint pain
* difficulty sitting, standing in later pregnancy
* shortness of breath
* higher blood pressure
Caused when there's insufficient nutrients for both the mother and the fetus. The solution would be to increase the amount of nutrients one ingests.
Source: http://www.thelizlibrary.org/liz/haig.html
* hair loss
This is temporary and the hair regrows after 3 months.
* tendency to anemia
Can easily be rectified by eating properly and if needed taking some suppliments. Anemia in pregnancy is caused by iron deficiency. Good sources of Iron include: red meat, fish, poultry, lentils, beans, leaf vegetables, tofu, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, potatoes with skin, bread made from completely whole-grain flour, molasses, teff and farina. Iron in meat is more easily absorbed than iron in vegetables.
* curtailment of ability to participate in some sports and activities
* infection including from serious and potentially fatal disease
(pregnant women are immune suppressed compared with non-pregnant women, and
are more susceptible to fungal and certain other diseases)
* extreme pain on delivery
* hormonal mood changes, including normal post-partum depression
Eat regular meals and snacks that include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Get plenty of sleep.
Rely on your network of family and friends for support, but if you feel overwhelmed, contact your physician.
Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, guided mental imagery and progressive muscle relaxation.
* continued post-partum exhaustion and recovery period (exacerbated if a c-section -- major surgery -- is required, sometimes taking up to a full year to fully recover)

Normal, expectable, or frequent PERMANENT side effects of pregnancy:

* loose skin
* permanent weight gain or redistribution
Can be worked off, if you try hard enough. You're never stuck with fat forever.
* abdominal and vaginal muscle weakness
Can be rectified. Kaegels, they're muscles, work them out and you'll be okay.
* pelvic floor disorder (occurring in as many as 35% of middle-aged former child-bearers and 50% of elderly former child-bearers, associated with urinary and rectal incontinence, discomfort and reduced quality of life)
* changes to breasts
* varicose veins
Wearing stockings with sufficient pressur and elevating the legs are good non-surgical treatments. Exercise can also help relieve this. If need be, surgery can be used as a cure.
* loss of dental and bone calcium (cavities and osteoporosis)
Simple: Take in more calcium. Good sources of calcium include seaweeds, nuts, seeds, molasses, beans, oranges, amaranth, collard greens, okra, rutabaga, broccoli, dandelion leaves, kale, sardines, orange juice, and soy milk. Vitamine D is necesary for absorbing calcium. It is found in certain fish, eggs, shitake mushrooms, bread, and produced in the body by absorbing sunlight. Dairy are really good in that they contain both calcium and vitamine D.

Occasional complications and side effects:

* hyperemesis gravidarum
Occures in .03%-2% of pregnant women. There are many medical treatments for this disease. Also, proper hydration and vitamin B1 intake can help.
* temporary and permanent injury to back
* severe scarring requiring later surgery (especially after additional pregnancies)
* dropped (prolapsed) uterus (especially after additional pregnancies, and other pelvic floor weaknesses -- 11% of women, including cystocele, rectocele, and enterocele)
* pre-eclampsia (edema and hypertension, the most common complication of pregnancy, associated with eclampsia, and affecting 7 - 10% of pregnancies)
* eclampsia (convulsions, coma during pregnancy or labor, high risk of death)
* gestational diabetes
Requires full bed rest, it's effects are temporary.
* placenta previa
* anemia (which can be life-threatening)
* thrombocytopenic purpura
* severe cramping
* embolism (blood clots)
* medical disability requiring full bed rest (frequently ordered during part of many pregnancies varying from days to months for health of either mother or baby)
* diastasis recti, also torn abdominal muscles
* mitral valve stenosis (most common cardiac complication)
* serious infection and disease (e.g. increased risk of tuberculosis)
* hormonal imbalance
* ectopic pregnancy (risk of death)
* broken bones (ribcage, "tail bone")
* hemorrhage and
* numerous other complications of delivery
* refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease
* aggravation of pre-pregnancy diseases and conditions (e.g. epilepsy is present in .5% of pregnant women, and the pregnancy alters drug metabolism and treatment prospects all the while it increases the number and frequency of seizures)
* severe post-partum depression and psychosis
* research now indicates a possible link between ovarian cancer and female fertility treatments, including "egg harvesting" from infertile women and donors
* research also now indicates correlations between lower breast cancer survival rates and proximity in time to onset of cancer of last pregnancy
* research also indicates a correlation between having six or more pregnancies and a risk of coronary and cardiovascular disease

Less common (but serious) complications:

* peripartum cardiomyopathy
* cardiopulmonary arrest
* magnesium toxicity
* severe hypoxemia/acidosis
* massive embolism
* increased intracranial pressure, brainstem infarction
* molar pregnancy, gestational trophoblastic disease (like a pregnancy-induced cancer)
* malignant arrhythmia
* circulatory collapse
* placental abruption
* obstetric fistula

More permanent side effects:

* future infertility
* permanent disability
* death.
Probably caused by combinations of above symptoms. If above symptoms are reduce, so should chances of death.

So discuss:
-Direct causes of pregnancy symptoms.
-Ways to reduce the symptom, chances of the symptom, or ways of eliminating them altogether.

Edit: Took out some redundancies, non-medical issues, and pseudo symptoms.

How bad is childbirth pain? I hear you forget it right after, but it sounds scary... whenever I ask someone, they just say it's different for every person...

That is a good point. xd But think about the choicers reactions if we counter every singel symptom, what would they say then?

Ah thanks. I'll be sure to get rid of some redudancies.

A boy. He's two now. blaugh

Some of these are completely ridiculous. Like stating the inability to take some medications is a side effect of the pregnancy. No, the inability to take some medications is to ensure that you don't harm the child you're carrying, the pregnancy in no way hinders you from taking them, common sense does WHILE you're pregnant. There's a difference.

Another amusing one is "weight gain" but I don't think I have to explain that one.

I don't think that "extreme pain on delivery" really counts as a side effect of the pregnancy.

Anemia is a problem that can easily be rectified by eating properly and if needed taking some suppliments.

Stretch marks? Not seeing how this would in anyway make me change my mind on legalizing abortion. Also, working in a maternity clothing store I've seen more women with either very few stretchmarks, or none at all, then I have with horrible amounts.

Weight gain and redistribution can be worked off, if you try hard enough. You're never stuck with fat forever.

Abdominal and vaginal muscle weakness can be rectified. Kaegels. They're muscles, work them out and you'll be okay.

Danielle had gestational diabetes and required a full bed rest IN the hospital. however she's perfectly fine and her life was never in real danger. It was a pain in the a**, granted but now has her beautiful baby girl and Danielle is completely healthy.

Anyway, I could go on but that's good enough for me, for now.

Weight gain? seriously? Their argument is they would rather kill someone they gain a few pounds?

pardon me if i find that sickening...

I hope you don't mind that I copied this list, but I'd like to counter each symptom and it's easier in a post I can edit. I see this list over and over and over again and I'm as tired of it as you are. My answers are in red. The ones you have already provided are in blue.

Normal, frequent or expectable temporary side effects of pregnancy:

* exhaustion (weariness common from first weeks)
Rest. Take naps during the day or after work. If you need to go to bed at 7 p.m. to feel rested, do so. This is a symptom that has no solution other than sleep.
Avoid taking on extra responsibilities. Cut down on volunteer commitments and social events if they're wearing you out.
Ask for the support you need. Get your partner or children to help out as much as possible.
Exercise regularly. Moderate exercise, such as walking for 30 minutes a day, can help you feel more alert and energetic.
Eat foods rich in iron and protein. Skimping on these nutrients can aggravate your fatigue. Foods rich in both iron and protein include red meat, seafood, poultry and eggs. Other good sources of iron include whole-grain or iron-fortified cereals, breads and pastas.
Avoid stimulants. Avoid caffeine, which may be harmful in high doses. Any product marketed for relieving fatigue and enhancing wakefulness is unsafe in pregnancy.

* altered appetite and senses of taste and smell
* nausea and vomiting (50% of women, first trimester)
Munch a few crackers before getting up in the morning.
Eat several small meals a day so that your stomach is never empty.
Avoid anything that causes nausea.
Drink plenty of liquids, especially if you've been vomiting. Try crushed ice, fruit juice or frozen ice pops if water upsets your stomach.
Try wearing a motion sickness band, which may relieve nausea by pressing on an acupressure point inside the wrist.
Suck on hard candy.
Try ginger, which has proved effective in combating morning sickness. Some ways to consume the spice include ginger soda or tea, gingersnaps or ginger in capsule form.
* heartburn and indigestion
Eat several small meals instead of two or three large ones. No matter how small the meal, eat slowly.
Avoid common heartburn triggers, such as fried foods, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, garlic and onion.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Avoid coffee. Both regular and decaffeinated coffee may worsen heartburn.
Stay up for two to three hours after your evening meal. If your heartburn comes on when you recline, raise the head of your bed four to six inches.
Talk to your physician about using antacids or other medications that relieve heartburn. These products can be used safely in pregnancy, but your physician should know which ones you take and how often you take them.

* constipation
Try to eat on a regular schedule.
Drink plenty of liquids - at least eight to 10 glasses a day.
Get some exercise every day.
Eat high-fiber fruits, vegetables and grains such as whole wheat and oatmeal.
Try fiber supplements, such as psyllium powder, Metamucil, Konsyl, Fiberall or Citrucel. A mild laxative such as milk of magnesia is safe, but don't take any other laxative without discussing it with your doctor.

* dizziness and light-headedness
Arise slowly as you get up from lying or sitting down.
Walk at a slower pace and take frequent rest breaks.
Avoid prolonged standing.
Instead of lying flat on your back, lie on your side. A pillow tucked under your abdomen may make this position more comfortable.
Guard against overheating. Saunas and hot tubs may increase the chance of fainting. Take cooler baths and showers, use air conditioning when needed, and avoid warm, crowded areas.
Stay physically active to improve blood circulation. Good activities include walking, water aerobics and prenatal yoga.
Drink plenty of fluids, particularly early in the day.
Eat iron-rich foods such as beans, red meat, green leafy vegetables and dried fruits to help your body get the iron needed to build red blood cells.

* fluid retention
Keep moving throughout the day. If you have to stand for long periods, shift your weight between your legs and stretch your legs periodically.
Wear support hose to help promote circulation in your legs.
Exercise regularly if possible.
When sitting or resting, elevate your feet and legs to reduce swelling.
Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight or uncomfortable.
Wear flats if possible.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help reduce water retention.

* hemmorhoids
Most importantly you should focus on eating a high fiber diet complemented by plenty of fluids. This will help keep you more regular and reduce the amount of constipation you experience during pregnancy. More often than not hemorrhoids result from constipation. Your best chance for preventing them is to stay as regular as possible during pregnancy. You might even consider drinking a cup of prune juice daily to help promote regular bowel movements.

If you develop hemorrhoids try a sitz bath. Most drugstores sell the supplies you need for a sitz bath. Basically this is just a mini bath that allows you to soak your rectum in warm water. This can help relieve the pain and irritation associated with hemorrhoids.

Try using an ice pack or other cold compress on the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and help minimize the pain associated with hemorrhoids.

Try using hemorrhoid pads. These contain witch hazel, and are generally safe to use during pregnancy. While there are other hemorrhoid related products on the market, you should check in with your doctor before using them during pregnancy. Some may result in more irritation than when you started. Remember that skin is overly sensitive when pregnant, hence it is best to err on the side of caution.

Wipe gently when pregnant. This will help reduce irritation and help prevent bleeding from hemorrhoids. You may find pre-moistened feminine cleansers or wipes more useful than toilet paper when dealing with hemorrhoids.

Kegel exercises may also help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy. These handy little exercises help promote greater circulation in the rectal and vaginal areas during pregnancy. They can also strengthen the muscles supporting the rectum, further reducing the likelihood that you will develop hemorrhoids. Fortunately most hemorrhoids are easily treated and disappear on their own with proper care and attention.
* abdominal cramps Heating pad, warm bath and if necessary take part of a Tylenol. Note: If they are severe and there is spotting, go to the doctor.
* yeast infections
Neither a bacterial nor a yeast infection presents a direct hazard to your baby, and both can be treated during pregnancy. Yeast infections are more common due to the effect of pregnancy hormones on the vaginal environment. Bacterial vaginosis is no more frequent in pregnant women than in other sexually active women.

* congested, bloody nose
Try using a humidifier in your room at night to keep the air moist in your room. Dry air can dry out mucous membranes and contribute to nosebleeds.
Avoid blowing too hard particularly when you have a cold. Use soft tissue products like those with aloe to help soothe your nose.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids during the day to keep your mucous membranes functioning properly. Dry mucous membranes are more likely to bleed than well hydrated ones.
Try an over the counter nasal lubricant if you experience frequent nosebleeds. As an alternative you may try a little dab of petroleum jelly on the inside of your nose to help prevent the membranes from drying out.
* acne and mild skin disorders
Always get plenty of sleep. Getting enough sleep will allow you to look refreshed and will help keep your skin healthy and less wrinkle prone.
Use sunscreen religiously. Even if you don't suffer from melasma, your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy. You should always use a moisturizer or sun block with an SPF 15 or higher.
Clean your face and neck regularly. Pimples will be much worse if pores are clogged. Be sure to clean your face using a gentle cleanser and light moisturizer during pregnancy.
Try a facial. Facial's can help improve acne and can help stimulate circulation in the skin, improving the appearance of the skin and providing you with a natural, healthy looking glow.
Moisturize every day. A good moisturizer will keep the skin looking soft and supple throughout your pregnancy. If you are acne prone try a light, water-based lubricant to prevent pores from clogging. The same is true for oily skin.

* skin discoloration (chloasma, face and abdomen) See above.
* mild to severe backache and strain
Exercise to prevent low back pain in early pregnancy - Starting an exercise program early in pregnancy can help strengthen and stretch the muscles in your back and legs. Swimming is an excellent exercise for women at all stages of pregnancy and helps strengthen the lower back. In addition the buoyancy of the water may help alleviate the strain you are experiencing in pregnancy back pain, joints and ligaments. Pregnancy pillows will also help to alleviate that lower back strain.

Sit up Straight to avoid back pain with pregnancy - If you find yourself sitting at a computer terminal or sitting in general for long periods of time, make an effort to keep your feet slightly raised off the floor. Take frequent breaks to get up and walk around which will help stretch your muscles and ligament and relieve back pain during pregnancy.
Wear Comfortable Shoes to avoid back pain - For most pregnant women, comfortable shoes are those that are low profile. High heels are not recommended, particularly if you want to avoid unnecessary back pain in pregnancy. When you get home take those shoes off and snuggle with your pregnancy pillow.

Bend from the Knees if you want to avoid back pain - If you have to lift objects, bend from your knees and not your waist. This will help prevent injury.

There are also some modalities you can use to help alleviate back pain during pregnancy. Among these are maternity support belts and pregnancy pillows. With walking support belts add that extra support needed for comfort and at night a Snoozer pregnancy pillow provides support in all the right places.

* increased headaches
Warm or cold compresses. To soothe a headache in the sinus area, apply warm compresses to the front and sides of your face and around your nose, eyes and temples. To relieve a tension headache, apply a cold compress to the back of your neck.
Reduce stress. Avoid placing yourself in stressful situations. Relaxation exercises, which may consist of deep breathing or simply closing your eyes and imagining a peaceful scene, may also help.
Rest and exercise. Resting in a dark, quiet room can soothe headaches. Getting enough sleep and exercise can also be helpful. Always be sure to find out from your health care provider what exercises are safe for you, and how long you can maintain your exercise program.
Eat well-balanced meals. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help keep your blood sugar from getting too low.
Maintain good posture, especially during the third trimester.
Get a massage. Massaging your temples, shoulders and neck can help reduce the pain of headaches.
Avoid headache triggers. Different kinds of food or stresses can trigger headaches. Keep a diary, and review the kinds of foods and activities that tend to trigger tension or migraine headaches. Triggers of migraine headaches include certain foods, such as chocolate, aged cheese, peanuts and preserved meats.
When to Talk to Your Health Care Provider
Most headaches during pregnancy are harmless, but headaches can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. If you have a migraine for the first time during pregnancy, or if you have a headache that feels unlike any you’ve experienced before, call your health care provider to make sure it is not a sign of more serious problems.

Call your health care provider right away if your headache:

Is sudden and explosive or includes a violent pain that awakens you from sleep
Is accompanied by fever and stiff neck
Becomes increasingly worse, and you have vision changes, slurred speech, drowsiness, numbness or a change in sensation or alertness
Occurs after falling or hitting your head
Is accompanied by nasal congestion, pain and pressure underneath your eyes, or dental pain (since this may be a sign of sinus infection)

* difficulty sleeping, and discomfort while sleeping
Good positions and extra padding from a full pregnancy pillow are often the key to a good night's sleep during pregnancy. Most women find that laying on their right or left side is most comfortable during pregnancy. Laying on your back is not recommended, as this can compress your inferior vena cava. If you compress this vein you'll find your blood flow restricted and you may feel lightheaded while laying down or upon rising. The left sided sleep position is easily achieved with a pregnancy pillow.

Most doctors recommend that pregnant women lie on their left side. This promotes optimal blood flow to your body and uterus. If however you find that you are more comfortable on your right side, there is no reason you shouldn't sleep on this side. Most women will also find they need added support while sleeping. This can most easily be accomplished through use of a body pillow. You may find it helps to tuck a body pillow under your belly and legs, and then also use a smaller pillow to support your back so you don't roll over on your back while sleeping.

If you do find you rolled onto your back while sleeping, don't panic. Simply roll back onto one of your sides and go back to sleep. Most women will find a position they are comfortable enough in to catch some zzz's. Some women find they do best in a semi-reclined position. You may for example find that you sleep better in a recliner or in a position similar to that a recliner might put you in. If this is the case, go for it. What matters is your comfort, not the exact position you fall asleep in.

You may find it helpful to tuck various sized pregnancy pillows in other locations during your pregnancy. Some women like a little extra lift under the arms while some even like a light pillow resting gently on top of their head. Don't worry about what seems ordinary or extraordinary. Again during pregnancy the key is your comfort.

Quieting Your Mind To Sleep
Most pregnant women find their thoughts race incredibly while pregnant. This can contribute as much to lack of sleep as can a bad position or lack of a body pillow. Prior to bed you should take several steps to ensure you can quite your mind enough to sleep while pregnant. This may include engaging in a bedtime ritual to help you sleep.

Many women find drawing a warm bath or taking a warm shower prior to bedtime helps them relax enough to fall asleep. Others find sipping a bit of chamomile tea and inhaling a small bit of lavender essential oil is all that is needed to help them fall asleep. If you find your thoughts tend to ramble the moment your head hits the pillow, try writing in a journal for a few minutes before sleeping. Simply keep a pen and pad near your bed. Spend ten to fifteen minutes writing down your random thoughts or worries before going to bed, then leave them in the journal when you go to sleep. While you may find this a bit challenging the first few nights, once you get into the habit you should find you start sleeping much easier with a regular routine.

Last but certainly not least, be sure you avoid products with caffeine in the hours leading up to your bedtime. Even a small amount of caffeine (like that contained in chocolate) may be all that is necessary to disrupt a pregnant woman's system and keep her awake. Instead try heating a bit of milk with some honey, which helps induce a naturally relaxed state prior to bedtime. Keep your cup small however, so you won't have to rush up and use the bathroom just as you are nodding off to sleep!

* increased urination and incontinence
You will need to drink plenty of fluid to keep hydrated during pregnancy. Don't think for a moment that reducing your fluid intake is the key to avoiding the bathroom frequently. Your best bet is avoiding diuretic fluids that can contribute to the sense of urgency you feel when you have to pee. These include caffeine products like tea, soda or coffee. You might try consuming most of your fluids during the day to reduce the number of trips you have to make to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

When using the bathroom, you may find it helps to lean forward a bit to ensure you completely empty out your bladder. Many women find they have to pee again shortly after a visit to the bathroom simply because they were not able to empty their bladder fully. This is more common in the later stages of pregnancy.

Many women will experience temporary urinary incontinence during pregnancy. Sometimes referred to as stress incontinence, many women find they leak some urine when lifting, bending, sneezing or even coughing. Certain forms of exercise may also worsen the problem. Temporary or stress incontinence is most likely to occur during the third trimester when the uterus is placing the most amount of pressure on the bladder. You can help alleviate the problem by emptying your bladder as frequently as possible and wearing a light pad to help catch any leaking.

Kegel exercises can also help with urinary incontinence. Kegels help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. While this may not resolve the problem completely it may help reduce the stress incontinence you experience during pregnancy. Kegel exercises can also help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles after delivery.

* bleeding gums
Brush your teeth and gums routinely. For most people that means brushing at least two times per day, or at the minimum after each meal. When you do brush you should make a point to do so for at least five minutes.
Floss routinely. Flossing is important for preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease. Try a thin floss or waxed floss if you find your gums are sensitive during pregnancy.
Invest in a soft toothbrush. Your gums and teeth are much more sensitive during pregnancy. You should also take care to brush gently when pregnant. Applying ice to your gums may help alleviate soreness or swelling you experience during pregnancy.
Avoid sugary foods. These will only contribute to gingivitis and decay.
* pica
* breast pain and discharge
* swelling of joints, leg cramps, joint pain
* difficulty sitting, standing in later pregnancy
* shortness of breath
* higher blood pressure
Caused when there's insufficient nutrients for both the mother and the fetus. The solution would be to increase the amount of nutrients one ingests.
Source: http://www.thelizlibrary.org/liz/haig.html
* hair loss
* tendency to anemia
Can easily be rectified by eating properly and if needed taking some suppliments.
* curtailment of ability to participate in some sports and activities
* infection including from serious and potentially fatal disease
(pregnant women are immune suppressed compared with non-pregnant women, and
are more susceptible to fungal and certain other diseases)
* extreme pain on delivery
* hormonal mood changes, including normal post-partum depression
Eat regular meals and snacks that include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Get plenty of sleep.
Rely on your network of family and friends for support, but if you feel overwhelmed, contact your physician.
Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, guided mental imagery and progressive muscle relaxation.

* continued post-partum exhaustion and recovery period (exacerbated if a c-section -- major surgery -- is required, sometimes taking up to a full year to fully recover)

Normal, expectable, or frequent PERMANENT side effects of pregnancy:

* loose skin
* permanent weight gain or redistribution
Can be worked off, if you try hard enough. You're never stuck with fat forever.
* abdominal and vaginal muscle weakness
Can be rectified. Kaegels, they're muscles, work them out and you'll be okay.
* pelvic floor disorder (occurring in as many as 35% of middle-aged former child-bearers and 50% of elderly former child-bearers, associated with urinary and rectal incontinence, discomfort and reduced quality of life)
* changes to breasts
* varicose veins
* increased proclivity for hemmorhoids
* loss of dental and bone calcium (cavities and osteoporosis)

Occasional complications and side effects:

* hyperemesis gravidarum
* temporary and permanent injury to back
* severe scarring requiring later surgery (especially after additional pregnancies)
* dropped (prolapsed) uterus (especially after additional pregnancies, and other pelvic floor weaknesses -- 11% of women, including cystocele, rectocele, and enterocele)
* pre-eclampsia (edema and hypertension, the most common complication of pregnancy, associated with eclampsia, and affecting 7 - 10% of pregnancies)
* eclampsia (convulsions, coma during pregnancy or labor, high risk of death)
* gestational diabetes
Requires full bed rest, it's effects are temporary.
* placenta previa
* anemia (which can be life-threatening)
* thrombocytopenic purpura
* severe cramping
* embolism (blood clots)
* medical disability requiring full bed rest (frequently ordered during part of many pregnancies varying from days to months for health of either mother or baby)
* diastasis recti, also torn abdominal muscles
* mitral valve stenosis (most common cardiac complication)
* serious infection and disease (e.g. increased risk of tuberculosis)
* hormonal imbalance
* ectopic pregnancy (risk of death)
* broken bones (ribcage, "tail bone")
* hemorrhage and
* numerous other complications of delivery
* refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease
* aggravation of pre-pregnancy diseases and conditions (e.g. epilepsy is present in .5% of pregnant women, and the pregnancy alters drug metabolism and treatment prospects all the while it increases the number and frequency of seizures)
* severe post-partum depression and psychosis
* research now indicates a possible link between ovarian cancer and female fertility treatments, including "egg harvesting" from infertile women and donors
* research also now indicates correlations between lower breast cancer survival rates and proximity in time to onset of cancer of last pregnancy
* research also indicates a correlation between having six or more pregnancies and a risk of coronary and cardiovascular disease

Less common (but serious) complications:

* peripartum cardiomyopathy
* cardiopulmonary arrest
* magnesium toxicity
* severe hypoxemia/acidosis
* massive embolism
* increased intracranial pressure, brainstem infarction
* molar pregnancy, gestational trophoblastic disease (like a pregnancy-induced cancer)
* malignant arrhythmia
* circulatory collapse
* placental abruption
* obstetric fistula

More permanent side effects:

* future infertility
* permanent disability
* death. Probably caused by combinations of above symptoms. If above symptoms are reduce, so should chances of death