Pregnancy Conditions To Be Aware Of

January 27, 2021

As soon as a pregnancy test reads positive, there's a level of excitement that cannot be matched. Although bringing life into this world is exciting, the nine months of pregnancy can also be worrisome and frightening. It's important to be aware of possible complications so that you can better protect you and your unborn baby. If you suspect any of the following 10 complications, seek medical attention immediately.

Anemia

Anemia is fairly common within the western world, as a low red blood cell count can cause a number of symptoms. Although pregnancy influences an increase in red blood cell mass, there's also a greater increase of blood plasma, resulting in possible anemia. This can leave you feeling extra sluggish and run-down, but no need to worry. In most cases, you simply need to increase your intake of iron. Discuss the potential cause of your anemia symptoms and create a plan that protects both you and your unborn child. If you are vegetarian or vegan, for instance, it's important that you're consuming enough iron, protein, and B-complex vitamins.

Depression

Becoming a parent will most certainly promote a natural and healthy glow, however, pregnancy can cause issues with your mood. Depression is actually fairly common amongst pregnant women and those who have already given birth and suffer from depressive symptoms - is what's known as postpartum depression. In fact, it's said that around in one out of ten pregnancies, the mother experiences bouts of depression.

It's believed that the rapid increase in hormone levels is what disrupts positive brain chemistry. This may also lead to anxiety, potentially affecting a baby's development. If you feel irritable, sad, or helpless, it's critical that you speak to someone. There are plenty of options, including highly effective support groups.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is simply when an egg is implanted on the outside of the uterus, most commonly occurring within the Fallopian tube. This can cause immense abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and more. It's very important to get checked as soon as symptoms surface, as it may be a medical emergency. Most commonly, an ectopic pregnancy is found between five and ten weeks. If you have ever had pelvic inflammatory disease, abdominal surgery, smoke, or are above the age of forty, you're at an increased risk.

Gestational Diabetes

Some women do not produce enough insulin during their pregnancy, leading to imbalanced blood glucose levels. The good news is, this can be controlled and should be addressed immediately. If left untreated, your baby may weigh more than average, increasing your risk of a difficult delivery. Your doctor or nutritionist will help you choose a more balanced diet.

Pregnancy-induced Hypertension

Although the majority of women who suffer from high blood pressure during their pregnancy deliver healthy babies, this can increase your risk of serious complications. In some cases, the baby will be delivered early or be underweight. Some experience a condition known as preeclampsia, which typically begins after the twentieth week of pregnancy. This causes increased blood pressure readings and protein in the mother's urine. Based on possible complications, this is why it's crucial to attend regular checkups. In doing so, you ensure the safety and health of both you and your baby.

Miscarriage

It's estimated that up to twenty percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage – a loss that stems from natural causes before twenty weeks. You may not even know that you were pregnant before a miscarriage takes place, as many women just think that they're having a heavy menstrual cycle. Although vaginal spotting and bleeding are common symptoms, this does not necessarily mean that you are having a miscarriage. Either way, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Infections

There are a number of possible infections, which can be harmful to your baby, as well as yourself. Group B strep, for instance, is a type of bacteria found in healthy women. In fact, it's said that one in four women have it. Although it's generally harmless, it can be deadly to your child. It's recommended that you get tested at thirty-five to thirty-seven weeks. Yeast infections are also more common during pregnancy. If you have any strange symptoms, such as vaginal burning, a fever, swollen glands, or any abnormal discharge, it's imperative that you see your doctor.

Fetal Arrhythmia

Although fetal arrhythmia only occurs in around one to two percent of pregnancies, it's important to be aware of. This simply refers to any abnormality regarding your baby's heart rate. It's recommended that you limit your consumption of caffeine while pregnant, as this may be a possible link. In some cases, it could mean that there are structural abnormalities and in other cases, it may be a normal part of development. Continually monitor your baby's heart rate if there is any cause for concern. Only in extremely rare cases does a fetal cardiologist need to get involved.

Umbilical Cord Prolapse

Leading up to your delivery, your doctor may become concerned about whether or not your baby's umbilical cord is compressed. This is simply due to increased pressure, potentially occurring in approximately 1 out of every 10 deliveries. Mild periodic compressions are fairly common and generally harmless, however, extreme compression can lead to a decrease in available oxygen and nutrients. As the flow of these necessities decrease, the probability of complications increase. Before labor, this can be diagnosed using a fetal Doppler or an ultrasound.

Placenta Previa

Within the third trimester, placenta previa affects approximately one out of every two hundred women. This is when the placenta sits low in the uterus, potentially causing it to separate from the uterine wall as you go into labor. If you have had twins or triplets, surgery on your uterus, a cesarean birth, or more than one child, you're at an increased risk. The most common sign is painless bleeding during your third trimester. If this happens to you, see your doctor immediately – as you may be required to bed rest.

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