• Tired?
  Take a look at your sleep patterns. You already know that pregnant women need more sleep, so do all you can to get enough. But believe it or not, too much rest may actually result in more lethargy. If you are getting excess sleep, try skipping a nap.
  
  Or, if your doctor allows, some exercise may be just what you need. People who exercise report more energy during the day and better sleep at night.
  
• Nauseated?
  No doubt you’ve heard the crackers-on-the-night-stand advice a million times. But have you tried eating small amounts throughout the day? Keeping your blood sugar on an even keel may improve how you feel.
  
  Deficiencies in important nutrients may cause or worsen your woozy condition, so choose healthy foods for you and your baby-to-be. Ask your doctor for a list of easy to digest options, and like Mom always said, take your vitamins.
  

Second Trimester

• Stretch marks?
  Many of us have earned our stripes, but would happily have declined the award. No shortage of creams and lotions touts the ability to magically prevent stretch marks. But believe it or not, a healthy diet can help. Eating right will keep your weight gain in check and promote elasticity in your skin, minimizing or warding off those unwanted lines.
  
• Back or abdominal pain?
  Mild discomfort from the extra weight and pressure of your baby against your abdomen and pelvis is normal, and unfortunately there’s no perfect fix. But you’ll like this advice—have a seat! This is the ultimate reason to put your feet up or lie down and relax. Let hubby pick up some of the household slack while your body adjusts to your growing baby.
  
  If you have difficulty letting go, try listening to a relaxation CD or your favorite soothing music. Close your eyes, take a few slow, deep breaths, and beginning with your facial muscles, focus on each part of your body, releasing excess tension. Some muscles may stubbornly hold onto tension, so try tensing on purpose, then letting go.
  
  
• Trouble sleeping?
  Common sense—and your mother-inlaw—will tell you that a consistent sleep schedule and a good body pillow can help you sleep. But there may be other habits working against your quest for Zs.
  
  No doubt you’ve diminished or cut out your morning java fix. But what about chocolate? Chocolate contains caffeine and too much may compromise sleep. Exercise can improve sleep, but when are you doing it? Exercising late in the day may have you too keyed up to ease off into dreamland.
  
  

Third Trimester

• Swelling?
  You put your feet up as often as possible, but your ankles still look more like the Michelin Man’s than your own. A balance of activity and rest is your best bet. Sitting too long and standing on your feet too long can both adversely affect circulation.
  
  Paradoxically, you likely need more water. “I’m retaining water and you want me to drink more?” you may ask. Yes. When your body senses a shortage of water, it will hold onto more fluids than usual to prepare for draught. Drinking more water will signal to your body that it is safe to let those extra fluids go.
  
• Heartburn?
  Your doctor may allow an antacid, but why not try to avoid the burn completely? Take the same precautions any heartburn sufferer would. Avoid fatty, spicy foods, chocolate and coffee. Eat smaller amounts at a time and remain upright for as long as possible after eating. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Remember, healthy baby trumps fashion any day.