Third Trimester

Coping with aches and pains during pregnancy

#YourBody

As your body changes, normal aches and pains during pregnancy can occur, especially in your back, legs and feet. The good news is, there are ways to ease them. We’ve put together a handy list of coping strategies for you.

Get started by adding popular actions
below, or add your own items.

What other parents add

Add

Action

Used by

Avoid lifting heavy objects – someone else can take care of this task.

243 243

If you have to pick something up, bend your knees and keep your back straight.

226 226

Try a maternity support pillow for your desk chair or sofa.

226 226

Wear flat, supportive shoes to evenly distribute your weight.

220 220

Consider an antenatal yoga class – you’ll be shown safe, gentle back stretches.

217 217

Get a little light exercise, such as a 30-minute walk each day.

248 248

But get lots of rest too, especially as your due date draws closer.

240 240

Warm baths can soothe aches and help your muscles relax.

240 240

Gently bending, stretching and rotating your feet can help prevent leg cramps.

228 228

Swollen ankles? Staying hydrated and resting with your feet up can help.

213 213

It’s usually ok to take paracetamol in pregnancy, unless your GP or midwife say not to.

211 211

For pelvic pain, get help from your GP or midwife – they can refer you to a physiotherapist.

220 220

Coping with aches and pains during pregnancy

My actions

My completed actions

Are you sure you want to delete this action?

What other parents add

Welcome to Smart parenting

You are about to delete a saved checklist