Managing Common Pregnancy Discomforts

Pregnancy can bring nausea, back pain, swelling, fatigue, and sleep changes as the body adjusts to each stage. While some discomfort is common, symptoms that affect daily life still deserve attention.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas helps patients understand what is expected, what may need closer attention, and how to support comfort throughout prenatal care.

Why Do Pregnancy Discomforts Happen?

Pregnancy discomforts happen because the body is working hard to support both the mother and baby. Hormone levels change, muscles and ligaments stretch, circulation increases, and the center of gravity shifts as pregnancy progresses. These changes can affect digestion, energy, balance, sleep, and overall comfort.

Morning sickness is often connected to hormonal changes, especially during early pregnancy. Some women feel nauseated only in the morning, while others may feel it throughout the day. Back pain may develop as posture changes and the pelvis begins preparing for delivery. Swelling can occur because the body holds more fluid and circulation changes during pregnancy. Fatigue is also common, especially in the first and third trimesters.

Common pregnancy discomforts may include:

• Nausea or morning sickness
• Lower back or hip pain
• Swelling in the feet or ankles
• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble sleeping comfortably
• Mild digestive changes or heartburn

Even when symptoms are common, they can still affect quality of life. A patient who is constantly nauseated, exhausted, or uncomfortable may struggle with work, family responsibilities, sleep, and daily routines. That is why it is helpful to talk openly during prenatal visits instead of assuming every symptom is something to simply push through.

Dr. Leveno encourages patients to speak up when something feels off, even if it seems small. “Pregnancy can make your body feel different from week to week, but you should not have to guess your way through it. If a symptom is affecting how you eat, sleep, move, or feel, bring it up so we can talk through it together.”

Everyday Tips for Morning Sickness and Fatigue

Morning sickness and fatigue are common in pregnancy, especially early on. Simple changes may help ease nausea and support energy throughout the day.

For nausea or morning sickness, it may help to:

• Eat small meals or snacks more often
• Keep crackers, toast, or another simple snack nearby
• Sip water throughout the day
• Choose bland or cold foods when smells trigger nausea
• Ask your doctor before using supplements or nausea remedies

Some women find ginger or lemon helpful, but severe nausea should not be ignored. If nausea causes weight loss or makes it hard to keep fluids down, contact your OBGYN.

Fatigue can also feel intense during pregnancy because the body is using more energy and sleep may be disrupted. To support energy, patients may benefit from:

• Resting when possible
• Choosing meals with protein and fiber
• Staying hydrated
• Taking short walks if approved by their doctor
• Keeping prenatal visits and recommended testing

Sometimes fatigue is expected. Other times, it may be linked to anemia, thyroid changes, dehydration, or nutrition concerns, which prenatal care can help monitor.

What Can Help With Back Pain and Swelling?

Back pain and swelling often become more noticeable as pregnancy progresses. As posture shifts and circulation changes, patients may feel more pressure in the back, hips, pelvis, legs, feet, or ankles.

For back discomfort, patients may consider:

• Gentle stretching approved by their doctor
• Prenatal yoga or light movement when appropriate
• Supportive shoes
• A pregnancy pillow while sleeping
• Avoiding heavy lifting or sudden twisting

Swelling can also be managed with simple daily habits. Elevating the feet, staying hydrated, and taking light walks may help improve circulation. However, sudden or severe swelling, especially in the face or hands, should be reported to a doctor right away because it may need medical attention.

Prenatal visits with Dr. Joseph Leveno give you a place to ask questions, talk through new symptoms, and feel more confident about what is normal and what should be checked.

Comfort and Prenatal Care Go Together

Pregnancy discomforts are common, but you should not have to push through them without guidance. Morning sickness, fatigue, back pain, and swelling can affect your day-to-day comfort, and prenatal visits are a good time to talk about what is normal, what may help, and what needs to be checked.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano in Plano, TX, helps patients feel more informed and supported throughout pregnancy. Conveniently located near Lucas and Parker, his office gives expectant mothers a place to ask questions, bring up new symptoms, and get guidance for the next stage of care. Schedule your prenatal exam here.

Published by Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN | Medical City Plano | Serving Collin County, TX | (972) 596-5821

Educational purposes only. Not medical advice.

Hormone Changes and Women’s Wellness

Hormone changes can affect energy, sleep, mood, weight, mental clarity, and sexual wellness, especially during perimenopause and menopause. When symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, it may be time to look closer at hormone balance.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano in Plano, Texas, helps women better understand their symptoms and whether bioidentical hormone therapy or another treatment option may be appropriate.

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?

Bioidentical hormone therapy, often called BHT, uses hormones that are chemically similar to hormones the body naturally produces. These may include estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone, depending on the patient’s symptoms, health history, and treatment goals.

The goal is not to “erase” aging or chase perfect hormone numbers. The goal is to understand whether hormone imbalance may be contributing to symptoms and whether treatment could help improve quality of life.

Common symptoms that may lead women to ask about BHT include:

• Fatigue, low energy, or brain fog
• Hot flashes, night sweats, or sleep problems
• Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability
• Low libido, sexual discomfort, or vaginal dryness
• Unexplained weight changes

These symptoms can also overlap with thyroid issues, stress, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, and other health concerns. That is why testing, discussion, and a full medical history matter before starting any type of hormone therapy.

Why Do Hormone Levels Change With Age?

Hormone levels change with age because the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone over time. This usually happens in stages, not all at once, which is why some women notice changes years before menopause.

Several changes may happen during this transition:

• Estrogen and progesterone levels gradually decline
• Ovulation may become less regular
• Hormone levels may fluctuate before menopause
• Menopause begins once menstrual cycles have stopped
• Lower hormone levels can affect sleep, mood, metabolism, and sexual wellness

Because this process can feel different for every woman, symptoms are not always easy to connect. Some changes may be mild, while others may interfere with daily comfort, energy, or quality of life.

For women in Plano and those traveling from Frisco and McKinney, having access to an experienced OBGYN can make these conversations easier. Instead of guessing whether symptoms are “just age,” patients can review their concerns, medical history, and possible treatment options in a more structured way.

Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Right for Every Woman?

Bioidentical hormone therapy is not right for every woman. That is one of the most important things to understand.

Some patients may be good candidates for hormone therapy, while others may need a different approach based on personal risk factors, health history, or the type of symptoms they are experiencing. A history of certain cancers, blood clots, heart disease, liver disease, abnormal bleeding, or other medical concerns may affect whether hormone therapy is appropriate.

This is also why self-treating with online hormone products, supplements, or unmonitored compounded hormones can be risky. Hormone therapy should be guided by a medical professional, such as Dr. Leveno, who can review the full picture and monitor how the body responds.

A thoughtful hormone evaluation may include:

• Symptom review

  Health history

  Menstrual or menopause status

  Lab testing when appropriate

  Medication and supplement review

  Follow-up after treatment begins 

Bioidentical does not automatically mean safer, stronger, or better for every patient. The right treatment depends on the individual. For some women, hormone therapy may help relieve symptoms. For others, lifestyle changes, non-hormonal treatments, sleep support, nutrition guidance, or additional testing may be more appropriate.

A Clearer Path to Hormone Balance

Hormone symptoms can affect sleep, energy, mood, weight, and sexual wellness at the same time, which can make it hard to know where to start. A thorough evaluation helps connect the dots and determine whether BHT or another treatment option may be appropriate.

Dr. Leveno can help patients review their symptoms, health history, and goals so the conversation is safer, clearer, and based on their full health picture. If hormone changes are affecting your quality of life, contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Leveno in Plano to discuss your options.

Published by Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN | Medical City Plano | Serving Collin County, TX | (972) 596-5821

Educational purposes only. Not medical advice.

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We are forever grateful for the ultimate sacrifice of those who died for the United States of America. May their courage and dedication will never be forgotten.
Don't forget our office will be closed today in observance.

What Should a Blood Test Check for During Pregnancy?

Blood tests are an important part of prenatal care because they help your OBGYN monitor your health and your baby’s development. While ultrasounds and physical exams provide valuable information, blood work can reveal concerns that may not cause obvious symptoms.

During pregnancy, blood volume increases, hormones shift, nutrient needs rise, and your immune system adjusts. Routine prenatal blood tests may check for anemia, blood type, Rh factor, infections, immunity, thyroid concerns, gestational diabetes risk, and nutrient deficiencies.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, helps patients understand why certain labs are recommended at different stages of pregnancy. For patients in Plano and those traveling from Wylie and Garland, blood testing can help catch concerns early and guide safer prenatal care.

Blood Type and Rh Factor Testing

One of the first pregnancy blood tests checks your blood type and Rh factor. Your blood type may be A, B, AB, or O, and your Rh factor may be positive or negative. This matters because Rh incompatibility can happen when a pregnant patient is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive.

If Rh incompatibility is possible, your provider may recommend Rh immunoglobulin during pregnancy or after delivery. This helps reduce the chance of your body forming antibodies that could affect the baby or future pregnancies.

Complete Blood Count During Pregnancy

A complete blood count, often called a CBC, looks at red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. This test can help check for anemia, infection signs, and platelet concerns.

Anemia is common during pregnancy because the body needs more iron to support increased blood volume and the baby’s growth. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, or feeling more worn down than expected.

Dr. Leveno encourages patients to speak up if something feels off. “Pregnancy can make you tired, but you still know your body. If you are feeling unusually weak, dizzy, or worn down, blood work can help us understand what is going on and what we can do to support you.”

If anemia or another concern is found, your provider may recommend dietary changes, iron supplementation, follow-up labs, or additional evaluation.

Why Are Infection and Immunity Tests Important?

Infection and immunity testing is important because certain infections can affect pregnancy, delivery planning, or newborn care. Early screening allows your provider to identify risks and take appropriate steps when needed.

Common prenatal blood tests may screen for:

• HIV
• Hepatitis B
• Syphilis
• Rubella immunity
• Sometimes varicella immunity or other tests based on history

Rubella immunity is checked because rubella infection during pregnancy can be serious. If you are not immune, your provider can document that information, discuss ways to avoid exposure, and plan for postpartum vaccination if appropriate.

Gestational Diabetes Screening

Gestational diabetes screening is often done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, although some patients may be tested earlier if they have certain risk factors. This screening checks how your body processes sugar during pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes can happen even in patients who did not have diabetes before pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones can affect how insulin works, which may cause blood sugar levels to rise. If blood sugar stays too high, it can increase the risk of complications for both mother and baby.

Screening typically involves drinking a glucose solution and having blood drawn afterward. If the first screening is elevated, additional testing may be recommended. When gestational diabetes is diagnosed, many patients can manage blood sugar with nutrition changes, activity, monitoring, and regular prenatal care, while some may need medication.

Thyroid, Iron, and Vitamin Levels

Thyroid function may be checked during pregnancy, especially if a patient has symptoms, a history of thyroid disease, or certain risk factors. Thyroid hormones help support metabolism, energy, and baby’s brain development.

Iron and vitamin levels may also be checked when symptoms or health history suggest a possible deficiency. Low iron can contribute to anemia, while low vitamin D, B12, or other nutrients may affect overall wellness. Targeted testing can be helpful when there are dietary restrictions, prior deficiencies, or ongoing concerns.

Book a Prenatal Care Appointment

Prenatal blood testing is one part of a bigger care plan. It can help identify concerns early, confirm that your body is getting the support it needs, and guide safer decisions throughout pregnancy.

If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or due for prenatal testing, schedule a woman's wellness or prenatal appointment with Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano.

Published by Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN | Medical City Plano | Serving Collin County, TX | (972) 596-5821

Educational purposes only. Not medical advice.

Why Do Prenatal Vitamins Matter During Pregnancy?

Prenatal vitamins help support both maternal health and a baby’s development during pregnancy. While a balanced diet is important, pregnancy increases the need for certain nutrients that can be difficult to get through food alone. A prenatal vitamin can help fill nutritional gaps and provide steady support during early development, growth, and ongoing prenatal wellness.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, helps patients make informed decisions about prenatal vitamins, nutrition, and pregnancy wellness. For patients in Plano and those traveling from Celina and Fairview, prenatal visits are a helpful time to review supplements, discuss dietary needs, and talk through symptoms such as nausea, digestion changes, or food restrictions.

Prenatal vitamins are not meant to replace healthy eating. They are designed to work alongside a nutrient-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of water. Food provides fiber, energy, antioxidants, and other nutrients that supplements cannot fully replace.

Key Nutrients in Prenatal Vitamins

A quality prenatal vitamin usually includes several nutrients that support pregnancy health. Each nutrient plays a different role, which is why choosing a vitamin specifically formulated for pregnancy is important.

Important nutrients often include:

• Folic acid: Supports early brain and spinal cord development and helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects
• Iron: Supports healthy blood volume and may reduce the risk of iron-deficiency anemia
• Calcium: Supports bone and teeth development while helping protect maternal bone health
• Vitamin D: Works with calcium to support bones, immune health, and overall wellness
• Iodine: Supports thyroid function and baby’s brain development
• Omega-3 DHA: Supports brain and eye development

Some prenatal vitamins include DHA, while others may require a separate supplement. This is one reason it can be helpful to bring your vitamin bottle or supplement list to an appointment. Your provider can review what you are taking and help identify whether your current option fits your needs.

How Do You Choose the Right Prenatal Vitamin?

Choosing the right prenatal vitamin starts with selecting one made specifically for pregnancy. Standard multivitamins may not contain the right amounts of folic acid, iron, iodine, vitamin D, or other pregnancy-supportive nutrients. Prenatal formulas are designed with pregnancy needs in mind.

It is also important to consider your health history, diet, and tolerance. Some patients may need additional iron, extra vitamin D, methylated folate, DHA, or a specific formulation based on lab results, dietary habits, nausea, digestive comfort, or medical conditions.

Dr. Leveno often reminds patients that prenatal care should be personal, not one-size-fits-all. “I want patients to feel comfortable asking about what they are taking, because vitamins, nutrition, and pregnancy symptoms are all connected. The goal is to support the pregnancy in a way that makes sense for mom.”

When choosing a prenatal vitamin, consider:

• Whether it is specifically labeled for pregnancy
• Whether it includes folic acid, iron, iodine, vitamin D, and calcium
• Whether DHA is included or needs to be added separately
• Whether the pill size, taste, or form is realistic for daily use
• Whether you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or sensitivities

Gummy prenatal vitamins may be easier for some patients to tolerate, but they may not contain iron. Capsules or tablets may offer more complete nutrition, but they can be harder to take during morning sickness. The best option is one you can take consistently and safely.

Prenatal Vitamins and Healthy Eating

Prenatal vitamins are helpful, but food still matters every day. A balanced diet can support energy, digestion, blood sugar stability, healthy weight gain, and overall pregnancy wellness.

A pregnancy-supportive diet may include:

• Fruits and vegetables for vitamins, minerals, and fiber
• Lean proteins such as eggs, poultry, fish, beans, or yogurt
• Whole grains for steady energy and digestion
• Healthy fats from foods like avocado, nuts, seeds, and appropriate fish options
• Water to support hydration and circulation

Some patients struggle with nausea, food aversions, heartburn, or fatigue, especially during the first trimester. In those cases, nutrition may not feel perfect every day. Prenatal vitamins can help provide consistency when eating patterns are limited, but ongoing symptoms should still be discussed during prenatal care.

If a prenatal vitamin causes nausea, constipation, or stomach discomfort, do not stop taking it without talking with your provider. A different brand, time of day, formulation, or supplement plan may be easier to tolerate.

When to Start Prenatal Vitamins

Ideally, prenatal vitamins should begin before pregnancy when someone is trying to conceive. Folic acid is especially important early in pregnancy, often before a person knows they are pregnant. However, if you are already pregnant and have not started a prenatal vitamin yet, it is still worth discussing the best option with your provider.

Consistency is important. Taking a prenatal vitamin daily helps maintain steady nutrient support throughout pregnancy. Some patients find it easier to take it with food, before bed, or at the same time each day.

Prenatal vitamins are only one part of prenatal care, but they are an important one. Regular appointments, lab work when needed, nutrition guidance, safe activity, and open communication all work together to support a healthier pregnancy.

Dr. Joseph Leveno provides prenatal and women's care at Medical City Plano and helps patients make informed decisions about vitamins, nutrition, and pregnancy wellness. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or unsure which prenatal vitamin is right for you, schedule an appointment to discuss the best next step for you.

Published by Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN | Medical City Plano | Serving Collin County, TX | (972) 596-5821

Educational purposes only. Not medical advice.