The miracle of pregnancy brings with it a range of different experiences. Some are wonderful and others aren’t so great.

Given the changes your body goes through, it’s not surprising that some aches, pains and other discomforts surface. Carrying around an extra 10-12 kilos is going to put some strain on your body and organs.

Although some discomfort is a normal part of being pregnant, understanding what causes it and how to relieve it will make the world of difference. It’s important to know how to alleviate your discomfort in order to preserve your wellbeing, comfort and happiness.

Some aches and discomfort will be short-lived and others will be more permanent or severe. Some will flare up in the earlier months of pregnancy, while others will arise closer to the time of birth.

Every woman's pregnancy is unique, so you may not experience every pain, discomfort, symptom or therapy described in this section.

Acupuncture

This eastern therapy is one safe, non-invasive way which may help to relieve pain and discomfort during your pregnancy. Morning sickness, joint pain and mild depression are just some of the symptoms that acupuncture may help to alleviate. Discover how else pregnancy acupuncture could help you over the next nine months.

Back pain

Back pain affects almost every pregnant woman. Pregnancy increases the risk of lower back pain because their centre of gravity shifts and changes the way they walk and hold themselves upright. Learn how you can relieve the extent of your back pain and strain during pregnancy and hopefully, ease it altogether.

Bloating

Before you even start to show, simple bloating might affect your ability to do up your pants. Because of the levels of progesterone that your body produces, you might experience more wind and bloating in early pregnancy than normal. Find out how to minimise these uncomfortable symptoms.

Constipation

Almost all pregnant women experience constipation in pregnancy at some point. Understanding why constipation occurs and how to relieve it could make a huge difference to your comfort levels. Read on to discover how some simple lifestyle changes can help to get things moving.

Cramps

Muscle cramping varies hugely from woman to woman and from month to month in pregnancy. While mild muscle cramps are usually harmless, severe leg cramping can be a sign of a serious complication. Learn what to look out for if you get cramps during pregnancy.

Remember though, if you are having any uterine cramps you need to be checked by a healthcare professional.

Haemorrhoids

They aren’t a glamorous part of pregnancy and haemorrhoids can cause some alarm when they are first felt or experienced. Find out why pregnancy haemorrhoids occur and learn how to prevent and relieve their symptoms safely during pregnancy.

Headaches

Headaches in pregnancy can occur for a number of reasons. Your pregnancy hormones, lack of sleep or even caffeine or alcohol withdrawal symptoms could be to blame. Investigate why you might be getting headaches and how to best alleviate them. A sudden severe headache can be a sign of serious pregnancy complications. So speak with your maternity care provider if you are worried.

Heartburn

Heartburn during pregnancy is very common. Despite it being a harmless symptom, it can cause real discomfort. Discover why heartburn is more common in pregnant women and how to relieve it safely.

Implantation bleeding

Before your pregnancy is even confirmed you might see some slight vaginal bleeding. This may be because your embryo has disturbed the lining of your uterus. This is called an implantation bleed and it’s perfectly normal. It can be a confusing experience, so before you start worrying, learn about why it can happen.

Pelvic girdle pain

As your uterus expands your pelvis has to make room. This can cause mild to extreme discomfort and even pain for some pregnant women. Find out what is causing your pelvic girdle pain (PGP) and the best ways to help relieve it.

Have more questions on pregnancy? Join a support group (if you have not done so!). Motherhood represents a completely new phase in your life, so you want to find a community of new mothers who can journey together with you. Pregnancy tips, parenting tips, free diaper samples and exclusive diaper offers shared on the Huggies Club platform can ensure you are best prepared for your newborn child too.