8 Common Pregnancy Concerns

During pregnancy, women may face complications or health issues. These issues may affect the mother’s health, the health of the fetus, or perhaps both. These issues can turn the pregnancy into a high-risk pregnancy. By allowing medical professionals to identify, manage, or treat concerns early on, receiving early and routine care from the Best Gynaecologist in Chennai can help lower the risk. 

Complications During Pregnancy

1. Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common concern during pregnancy. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health risks like preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a risky condition that begins after 20 weeks of their pregnancy, even for women whose blood pressure has been normal. High blood pressure and protein in urine trigger the condition leading to swelling in the legs or water retention. However, this can be hard to differentiate from a normal pregnancy. 

Thus, pregnant women with pre-existing hypertension or those who develop it during their pregnancy must take regular check-ups to ensure that their blood pressure remains within normal limits.

2. Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and affects how the body processes sugar. The main risk factor is a previous history of gestational diabetes or having a family member with type 2 diabetes, but it can also occur when pregnant women have higher than normal blood sugar levels due to hormonal changes. If left untreated, gestational diabetes can result in high birth weight babies or preeclampsia or hypertension, which can put both mother and baby at risk. 

3. Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is a common concern for many expectant mothers. Generally, morning sickness begins around week 6 and peaks at weeks 8-10 of pregnancy, but it can last much longer in some cases. Women may experience light-headedness or faintness due to low blood sugar levels caused by inadequate nutrition from lack of eating or vomiting. 

4. Menopause 

Menopause, or the permanent end of menstruation, typically occurs around the age of 45 to 55 but can occasionally start earlier. Women considering pregnancy at this stage should know that although it is possible to conceive during menopause, it may be more difficult than in earlier stages of life due to decreased egg quality and production. Women experiencing menopausal symptoms should seek Menopause Treatment in Chennai before getting pregnant to receive hormones and fertility treatments that could potentially improve the chances of conceiving. 

5.  Hyperemesis Gravidarum

It is a serious medical condition that affects some pregnant women. Characterized by severe nausea, vomiting and weight loss during pregnancy, it typically occurs between the sixth and twelfth weeks of pregnancy but can happen at any time during gestation. Symptoms include intense nausea and vomiting, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and rapid weight loss.

6. Depression

Depression is a common and serious concern amongst pregnant women. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, changes in lifestyle and physical discomfort associated with pregnancy. Depression during pregnancy has been linked to adverse outcomes for both the mother and baby, such as preterm labour, low birth weight, difficulty bonding with the infant and postpartum depression. 

However, pregnancy is a time of great joy, but can also cause some anxiety. By being informed and proactive, pregnant women can help ensure they have a happy and healthy pregnancy.