Below are some examples of problems that can affect pregnant women. These problems can be more serious than other common but unpleasant difficulties, such as morning sickness and piles.
High blood pressure
Your blood pressure will be checked at every antenatal appointment, because high blood pressure can be a sign of a condition called pre-eclampsia. If it’s not treated, pre-eclampsia can develop into eclampsia, which can be life-threatening for you and your baby. Pre-eclampsia often has no other symptoms, although some women get headaches, swollen ankles and wrists, visual disturbances, and abdominal pain. Always contact your GP or midwife straightaway if you have any of these symptoms. If you’re diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, you’ll need to rest at home or sometimes in hospital. You may be given medication to lower your blood pressure. Occasionally, it may be necessary to deliver the baby early.
Vaginal bleeding
Bleeding from the vagina at any time during pregnancy can be a danger sign. Some causes of vaginal bleeding are more serious than others, so it’s important to check the cause straightaway. You should always contact your GP or midwife immediately for advice. In early pregnancy, bleeding may be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, although many women who bleed at this time go on to have normal, successful pregnancies. The cells on the surface of the cervix often change in pregnancy and make it more likely to bleed, particularly after sex. Vaginal infections can also cause a small amount of vaginal bleeding.
Severe itching
Mild itching is very common in pregnancy. However, if you have severe itching without a rash, particularly in the last four months of pregnancy, get it checked by your midwife or GP as soon as possible. It may be the only sign of an uncommon condition called obstetric cholestasis that affects the liver and can have serious effects on you and your baby.
Slow-growing babies
Many tests during pregnancy check how your baby is growing. Your GP and midwife will monitor your pregnancy closely if you:
- have previously had a very small baby, or
- smoke heavily.
If there’s concern about your baby’s health, you may have further tests and your baby may be monitored more frequently. If tests show that your baby is not growing well, they may be delivered early by inducing your labor or by Caesarean section.
In your last weeks of pregnancy, you may be asked to keep track of your baby’s movements. Contact your midwife or GP immediately if your baby’s movements:
- become less frequent,
- slow down, or
- stop. (posted by Nurhayati)
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