Pregnancy Complication
From LoveToKnow Pregnancy
Common Pregnancy Complications
No one wants to know about possible pregnancy complications. Yet, it’s important to know the warning signs of complications so you can quickly contact your care provider if they occur.
There are many pregnancy complications. However, the most common complications in pregnancy include ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor.
Ectopic Pregnancy
When an egg is fertilized, it travels through the fallopian tubes where it implants into the uterus. From there, the egg develops into a fetus. In an ectopic pregnancy the fertilized egg implants into a place other than the uterus. The most common place for an egg to implant other than the uterus is the fallopian tubes. This is called a tubal pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy is a very serious pregnancy complication. Since there is no room for the fetus to grow other than in the uterus, organ damage can occur. Some women actually die from ectopic pregnancies. The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy are bleeding and cramping in early pregnancy.
Miscarriage
Only 25% of pregnancies result in a live birth. This is because many women miscarry in the first trimester. A miscarriage is nature’s way of halting a pregnancy if something is wrong. Cramping and bleeding in early pregnancy are also symptoms of a miscarriage. Because of the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, it is important you contact your care provider if you have those symptoms.
Pre-eclampsia
Pre-eclampsia is a very severe condition in late pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, an intense headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, or rapid weight gain. Your care provider will check for each of these symptoms at your appointments. If you notice these symptoms, contact your care provider immediately. If you have pre-eclampsia, you will likely be induced to deliver your baby.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is diabetes brought on by pregnancy. You will be tested for this pregnancy complication about half-way through your pregnancy. If you test positive, you will have to change your diet. Your doctor will give you diet recommendations. It’s important for you and your baby’s health that you stick to them.
Because of the risk of delivering a large baby, your care provider may recommend an induction at or before your due date.
Placenta Previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. This can be a severe complication. When you get your ultrasound, the technician will look for placenta placement. Your care provider will let you know if there are any concerns. The most common symptom of placenta previa is bleeding.
If your placenta completely covers the cervix, you will be asked to deliver via cesarean.
Preterm Labor
Preterm labor can be a serious pregnancy complication. Premature babies are at much greater risk for health complications and developmental delays.
If you go into preterm labor, your care provider will try to stop it with medications and bed rest. If this doesn’t work, you may be hospitalized. If you do deliver a preterm baby, your baby may have to stay in the hospital for a while.
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