Things you need to know
Things you need to know
- Health problems during pregnancy can affect any pregnant woman
- The symptoms and their severity of these problems vary from one pregnant woman to another
- Your obstetrician will provide a tailor-made care plan to manage and treat your pregnancy complications
Common health problems during pregnancy
Common health problems during pregnancy
There are several discomforts and health concerns that can affect you during pregnancy. Some more common pregnancy complications include:
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is one of the most common health problems during pregnancy. It is a type of diabetes that develops particularly in pregnant women. One of the biggest risk factors of this complication is that your baby may grow much larger in size. Gestational diabetes also does not have any significant symptoms. It is mostly diagnosed during routine prenatal screenings and tests.
Constipation in pregnancy
Constipation in pregnancy is among the early health problems during pregnancy. The changes in your body due to pregnancy hormones can make you feel constipated. You can, however, prevent constipation by eating a high-fibre diet, exercising regularly and drinking plenty of water.
Cramps in pregnancy
Cramping and lower back pain in early pregnancy are highly common. Cramps are described as sudden, sharp pain usually in your calf muscles. Routine exercise can help in improving blood circulation and thus preventing cramps in pregnancy.
Fainting in pregnancy
Fainting in pregnancy is a result of not receiving sufficient oxygen and blood in your brain. It is among the most common health problems during pregnancy. Fainting in pregnancy usually occurs due to the rapid changes in pregnancy hormones.
Skin changes in pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can also trigger a range of skin changes. Most common changes include pigmentation, acne, varicose veins and stretch marks.
Placenta previa
Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication in which the baby’s placenta partially or fully covers the mother’s cervix. This condition causes you to bleed throughout your pregnancy and during delivery sometimes leading to preterm birth.
Preterm labour
When a pregnant woman experiences labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is known as preterm labour. Preterm labour increases your chances of premature birth which further raises the risk of health concerns for your baby.
Urinary tract infections during pregnancy
UTI during pregnancy is among the most common pregnancy complications. It is because the growing fetus can put pressure on your bladder and urinary tract causing the bacteria to become trapped. UTI during pregnancy can increase your chances of preterm labour.
Infections
Infections ranging from the common cold to sexually transmitted infections can negatively impact the health of your baby. Any type of infection can cause pregnancy complications. You should seek routine medical screening and preventive measures for infections during pregnancy.
Mental health problems in pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can affect your mood during pregnancy. A vast majority of pregnant women experience troublesome mental health conditions during pregnancy such as depression, anxiety, difficulty in concentration and critical thinking. Depression during pregnancy can also increase your chances of postpartum depression.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a medical condition that causes extremely high levels of blood pressure. It can be a fatal medical condition if left untreated. Common symptoms of preeclampsia include pain under the ribs, severe headache and vision problems.
Other common discomforts during pregnancy
Other common discomforts during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a sensitive time and can increase your chances of developing a wide variety of conditions and discomforts such as:
- Backache in pregnancy
- Bladder problems
- Hair changes in pregnancy
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Varicose veins