Common pregnancy complications

There are several common pregnancy complications or pathologies that women may experience during their pregnancy. Some of these complications include:

1. Gestational diabetes: This is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and can cause high blood sugar levels. It is usually diagnosed around 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy.
2. Gestational hypertension: This is new hypertension that did not exist prior to pregnancy and usually starts at around 20 weeks of gestation.
3. Pre-eclampsia: This is a serious condition that affects some women during pregnancy. It is characterised by high blood pressure, protein in the urine and swelling in the feet, legs, and hands.
4. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP): this is a potentially serious liver disorder that can develop in pregnancy. Normally, bile acids flow from your liver to your gut to help you digest food. In ICP, the bile acids do not flow properly and build up in your body instead. There’s no cure for ICP, but it should go once you’ve had your baby.
5. Miscarriage: This is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. Miscarriage can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic abnormalities, infections, and hormonal imbalances.
6. Ectopic pregnancy: This is a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
7. Placenta previa: This is a condition in which the placenta covers the cervix, making vaginal delivery impossible. Placenta previa can cause bleeding and requires a caesarean birth.
8. Placental abruption: This is a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery. Placental abruption can cause vaginal bleeding and can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.
9. Intrauterine growth restriction: This is a condition in which the baby’s growth is restricted, resulting in a smaller than expected size and inconsistent development. Intrauterine growth restriction can be caused by a variety of factors, including placental problems and maternal health conditions and maternal tobacco consumption.

It’s important to note that not all women will experience these pathologies and complications during pregnancy, and some women may experience other, less common conditions. It is paramount that you discuss any concerns or symptoms you have with a healthcare provider.

Please follow our pregnancy education classes here at Hera Family Care so we can guide you through your journey and help you understand the intricacies of your specific pregnancy journey.