Other discomforts in the fifth month of gestation

In the fifth month of pregnancy, some women may experience the following common symptoms:

• Sciatica: this is inflammation of the sciatic nerve which is located in the lower back and may extend to the foot.
• Leg cramps: caused by pressure on the nerves from the growing uterus.
• Constipation: as a result of hormonal disruption.
• Haemorrhoids: circulatory disorder caused by dilated veins in the rectum, often associated with constipation.
• Heartburn: progesterone, which slows down stomach emptying, and the pressure exerted on the stomach walls due to the expansion of the uterus may contribute to this discomfort.
• Palpitations and tachycardia: the increased blood flow needed for the baby's growth may cause the heart to work harder.