Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

Management:
- Small and frequent meal, sleeping with more pillows than
usual.
- For persistence/sever case/ prescribe antacids.
3. Pica: - This is the term used when mother craves certain
foods of unnatural substances such as coal, soil...etc. The
cause is unknown but hormones and changes in metabolism
are blamed.
Management:
- Seek medical advice if the substance craved is potentially
harmful to the unborn baby.
4. Constipation: - Progestrone causes relaxation and
decreased peristaltic activity of the gut, which is also
displaced by the growing uterus.
Management:
- Increase the intake of water, fresh fruit, vegetables and
ruphages in the diet.
- Exercise is helpful especially walking
5. Backache - The hormones sometime soften the
segments to such a degree that some support is needed.
Management:
- Advice the mother to sleep on firm bed.
- Advice support mechanisms of the back.
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