Every pregnancy has risks. However, with proper prenatal care and support, you can reduce your risks. Complications during pregnancy can be increased by factors such as age and overall health. First-time mothers may be wondering which pregnancy symptoms require immediate medical attention and which can wait until your next prenatal visit. Always discuss your concerns with your doctor during your visits. However, keep in mind that some signs of complications require immediate attention. Following are some signs of an unhealthy pregnancy that need close attention and medical assistance:
1. Bleeding
Throughout your pregnancy, bleeding can mean a variety of things. If you are bleeding profusely, have severe abdominal pain and menstrual-like cramps, or feel like you are about to faint during your first trimester, you may have an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, can be fatal.
Heavy bleeding and cramping may also indicate a miscarriage in the first or early second trimester.
In contrast, third-trimester bleeding with abdominal pain may indicate placental abruption when the placenta separates from the uterine lining. Bleeding is always dangerous, and any bleeding during pregnancy requires immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or visit the nearest emergency room.
2. Reduced Fetal Activity
What does it mean if your previously active baby suddenly appears to be losing energy? It could be normal. But how do you know? Some troubleshooting can assist in determining whether or not there is a problem. Experts recommend that you first drink or eat something cold. Then try lying on your side to see if this helps the baby move.
Counting kicks can also be beneficial. There is no optimal or critical number of movements, but you should generally establish a baseline and have a subjective sense of whether your baby is moving more or less. As a general rule, you should be able to kick ten or more times in two hours. Anything less should prompt you to contact your doctor. It is advised to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will have monitoring equipment that can be used to determine whether or not the baby is moving and growing normally.
3. Severe Vomiting and Nausea
When you’re pregnant, it’s normal to feel nauseous. If it becomes severe, it may become more serious. You are at the risk of becoming dehydrated if you can’t eat or drink anything. Malnutrition and dehydration can be harmful to your baby. Inform your doctor if you are experiencing severe nausea. Your doctor may prescribe medication or suggest that you change your diet.
4. Early Contractions
Contractions could indicate preterm labor. However, many first-time mothers may mix up true and false labor. False labor contractions are unpredictable, non-rhythmic, and do not intensify. They will go away in an hour or so if you drink enough water. On the other hand, regular contractions are about 10 minutes apart or less and increase in intensity. If you’re in your third trimester and suspect you’re having contractions, contact your doctor immediately. If the baby is due to be born too soon, your doctor may be able to induce labor.
5. Preeclampsia
A persistent severe headache, abdominal pain, visual disturbances, and swelling during your third trimester could be signs of preeclampsia. This is a potentially fatal condition that develops during pregnancy. High blood pressure and an excess of protein in your urine are symptoms of the disorder, usually appearing after the 20th week of pregnancy. Make an appointment with your doctor right away to have your blood pressure checked. Preeclampsia can be detected early with good prenatal care.
6. Flu
According to experts, pregnant women should get the flu vaccine because they are more likely than other women to get sick and have serious complications from the flu during flu season. However, if you do catch the flu, don’t rush to the hospital or doctor’s office, where you could infect other pregnant women. First, contact your doctor.
7. Gaining Too Much Weight
Gaining too much weight during pregnancy increases your baby’s risk of health problems, such as being born significantly larger than average, leading to birth complications, such as preterm birth. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy may also increase the chances of postpartum weight retention. Your doctor will advise you on how much weight you should gain and will assist you in maintaining a healthy weight throughout your pregnancy.
How to Prevent Complications
The following steps may help you have a healthy pregnancy and avoid a high-risk pregnancy:
- If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, talk to your doctor first to make sure you’re ready. For example, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, your doctor may advise you to modify your treatment in order to prepare for your pregnancy.
- Consume a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and fiber.
- Take prenatal vitamins every day.
- Try to reduce your stress levels.
Pregnancy is a challenging time for females. If you ever feel any of the above-mentioned symptoms, contact your gynecologist immediately.
