Pregnancy Complications And How To Prevent Them

Complications

Obie Editorial Team

Through regular check-ups, your healthcare team is committed to monitoring your baby's growth and development while being vigilant for indicators of common pregnancy complications. Identifying these early is key to preventing potential issues and supporting a healthy pregnancy and delivery. You're taking essential steps towards a healthy future for both you and your little one.

Let’s explore some of the most common pregnancy complications and how you can prepare and manage them proactively:

  1. Maternal Mortality
  2. Hemorrhage/Bleeding
  3. Pulmonary Embolism
  4. Stillbirth
  5. Deep Vein Thrombosis
  6. Miscarriage: Occurs in about 1 in 3-4 pregnancies
  7. Group B Strep (GBS): Approximately 1 in 3-4 pregnancies
  8. Rh Negative: Occurs in 1 in 7 pregnancies
  9. Preterm Birth: Affects 1 in 10 pregnancies
  10. Low Birth Weight: Seen in 1 in 10 pregnancies
  11. Preeclampsia: Impacts 1 in 10 first pregnancies
  12. Diabetes: Occurs in 1 in 10-50 pregnancies
  13. Hypertension: Affects 1 in 10-20 pregnancies
  14. Ectopic Pregnancy: Happens in 1 in 50 pregnancies
  15. Placenta Previa: Seen in 1 in 100 pregnancies

Miscarriage:
Understanding that miscarriage is common can help manage expectations. Miscarriage before the 6th week of pregnancy is often termed early pregnancy loss. After the 6th week, it’s referred to as a clinical spontaneous abortion. Staying informed and connected with your healthcare provider can aid emotional and physical recovery.

Group B Strep:
Screening for Group B Strep occurs between weeks 35-37 of gestation. If you test positive, antibiotics during labor can effectively prevent transmission to the newborn, mitigating risks of infections. Understanding your screening results empowers you to take preventive measures for a healthy delivery.

Rh Negative:
Less than 15% of individuals are Rh negative. If you lack this factor, you may need Rh immunoglobulin injections during and after pregnancy to guard future pregnancies. Open communication with your healthcare team ensures you receive appropriate care to prevent sensitization.

Preterm Birth:
Babies born before week 37 of pregnancy may face various health challenges, but proactive monitoring and planning with your healthcare team can ensure you’re prepared for any possibilities. Each week in the womb is vital for organ development, and understanding signs of labor can help you seek care promptly.

Low Birth Weight:
While sometimes related to preterm birth, full-term infants can be of low birth weight too. If premature, hospital teams will closely monitor potential complications, but not all low weight infants require medical intervention. Emphasizing optimal nutrition and prenatal care can support healthy fetal growth.

Preeclampsia:
This serious condition, marked by high blood pressure and other symptoms like vision changes and headaches, requires careful management. Early detection through regular monitoring is crucial. Treatment often focuses on managing symptoms until it’s safe for the baby to be delivered, ideally at term.

Diabetes:
Whether type 1, type 2, or gestational, managing diabetes requires strategic planning—with your team focusing on diet, physical activity, and possibly medication. Monitoring blood sugar levels and adhering to a tailored management plan ensures both you and your baby remain healthy.

Hypertension:
High blood pressure can develop during pregnancy independent of other issues, like preeclampsia. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, but sometimes medication is necessary. Regular BP checks and open dialogue with healthcare providers facilitate effective management.

Ectopic Pregnancy:
When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, it cannot progress normally. This serious condition requires early diagnosis—typically indicated by abdominal pain—to prevent severe complications. Immediate care is crucial, and support from your medical team will guide you through treatment.

Placenta Previa:
This condition, where the placenta covers the cervix, can lead to bleeding and may require planning for a safe birth strategy, often via C-section. Consistent monitoring via ultrasounds guides the treatment plan and helps plan the safest delivery for you and your baby.

You’re taking a vital—and empowering—step by educating yourself about these conditions. With the proper knowledge and support, you and your team can navigate any challenges that arise during your pregnancy with confidence and care.