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Common pregnancy discomforts

Also called: Pregnancy discomforts, back pain in pregnancy, leg cramps in pregnancy, heartburn in pregnancy

Common, usually harmless aches and changes during pregnancy, like back pain, leg cramps, heartburn, swelling, and constipation. Simple steps ease most of them.

TypeNormal pregnancy changes
CommonBack pain, heartburn, cramps, swelling
Warning signsKnow when to call

Overview

Hormones, a growing belly, and weight changes cause many discomforts.

Some symptoms, like a bad headache or sudden swelling, can be signs of serious problems.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Back pain, leg cramps, or heartburn during pregnancy
  • Pregnant or recently gave birth

Less common

  • Swelling of the feet
  • Constipation

Look up a symptom: Back pain, leg cramps, or heartburn during pregnancy · Pregnant or recently gave birth

When to get medical care

Call 911Heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, seizure, trouble breathing, or chest pain.
Get care todayBad headache, vision changes, sudden face or hand swelling, fluid leaking, or the baby moving much less.
See a doctor soonDiscomforts that keep you from sleeping or eating.

Causes

Hormones and the growing baby.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Later pregnancy
  • Twins

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Your prenatal team checks you at visits.

Questions you may be asked

  • Which symptoms bother you

The exam

Blood pressure and weight checks.

Treatment

Simple steps help most discomforts.

Self-care

  • Back pain: wear flat shoes, bend your knees to lift, sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees
  • Leg cramps: stretch your calves, drink water
  • Heartburn: eat small meals, don't lie down after eating
  • Swelling: raise your feet, move often
  • Constipation: fiber, water, walking

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pregnancy-safe options
Pain and heartburnAsk before taking any medicine in pregnancy.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To ease discomforts:

  • Stay active
  • Eat small meals

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Outlook

Most discomforts end after birth.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • What's safe to take?
  • When should I call?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Common pregnancy discomforts

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.