All women face some type of discomforts or issues during their pregnancy. And while some women have health problems before pregnancy that if left untreated can cause problems, others might develop some serious issues during pregnancy as well. While others face common health problems during pregnancy you might face.
This is why women need to receive proper health care before and during pregnancy as well.
Regular checkups to your obstetrician can help you diagnose these issues early and you can take the necessary precautions or steps to manage them well.
This article tries to inform you of 5 such health problems and their symptoms that might occur during your pregnancy
Note: Pregnancy symptoms can range anywhere from mild fever or discomfort to severe life-threatening issues. Always contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns during your pregnancy.
5 common health problems that might occur during pregnancy are:
1. Anemia
One of the most common health problems during pregnancy is anemia. Anemia is a condition that occurs if you have a lower count of healthy red blood cells. Although there are various types of anemia, iron deficiency anemia is the most common one that occurs in pregnant women. This is because a healthy pregnant woman needs more iron than normal for the increased amount of blood in their body and for the development of their child.
Symptoms:
- Feeling weak or tired.
- Feeling fatigued.
- Shortness of breath.
2. Depression
Another common health problem during pregnancy is depression. Many people have heard of postpartum depression i.e. depression after the baby is born, but depression during pregnancy is really common as well. There can be various reasons for a pregnant woman to be depressed but it most likely happens because of hormonal changes, stress, complications during pregnancy, family history, etc.
Therapy and support groups are often recommended for pregnant women to help combat their depression and loneliness.
Symptoms:
- Intense sadness and irritability.
- Feeling of shame or guilt.
- Self-harming thoughts.
3. High Blood Pressure or Hypertension
Poorly controlled blood pressure during pregnancy is yet another of the common health problems during pregnancy. High blood pressure can put both the mother and baby at risk for a myriad of health problems. Pregnant women with high blood pressure are also associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia ( a pregnancy complication that can damage your organs most likely the kidneys and liver).
It also increases your risk of preterm delivery, having an infant who is small, and infant death. Thus, It is important to take the necessary medications and control your blood pressure levels during pregnancy to avoid all these complications.
Symptoms:
- High blood pressure often has no signs but you might have symptoms of preeclampsia.
- Symptoms of preeclampsia include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
4. Infections
Infections can range from the common cold or slight fever to more severe bacterial or viral infections that can put both the mother and baby in danger. It’s important to seek treatment right away if you show any signs of infection.
Some examples of infections that can be common health problems during pregnancy include UTI ( urinary tract infection), influenza, bacterial vaginosis, STI( sexually transmitted infections), etc.
Washing your hands properly and avoiding junk foods may help you fight some of these infections.
Symptoms-
- Nausea, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Pain or burning sensations while urinating.
- Pain during sex.
5. Miscarriage
Last up on our list of some of the most common health problems during pregnancy including miscarriage. Pregnancy loss before the 20th week of pregnancy is considered a miscarriage. According to the American pregnancy association apa as many as 20% of healthy pregnant women can end up having a miscarriage.
Sometimes, this can happen even before the woman is aware of her pregnancy. In many cases, miscarriage isn’t preventable.
Symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Abdominal pain.
- Discharge of fluid or tissue from your vagina.
These are the 5 health problems and symptoms among a dozen of others. So the most important advice you can do for you and your baby is to have frequent checkups with your healthcare provider.