Generally, pregnancies will progress uneventfully, bringing joy to the parents at the end of the term. It is important to note that, though taken for granted, pregnancy is a difficult period for the mother-to-be, as her body undergoes a great deal of changes in the period between conception and childbirth. These changes could lead to problems like irritation and discomfort which is understandable. Unfortunately, not all problems are to be taken lightly, as many of them are alarming, which may even lead to loss of life.
Any warning signs that tell that there could be something amiss should be immediately brought to the notice of the consulting doctor, because many problems could be handled easily if taken care of at the earliest.
Importance of Medical Tests and Check-ups
The consulting medical practitioner often orders variety of clinical and laboratory tests for the pregnant woman in the course of her gestation period. These medical check-ups provide information regarding the general health of the mother, growth of baby, blood count, and any complications that should be taken care of.
Most of the tests are standard procedure which will be done at specified periods during pregnancy, whereas some could be done when the mother-to-be shows symptoms of complications. Some tests are for women who are in the high risk category due to their personal problems or keeping in mind the medical history of her family.
Health Conditions Known to Cause Problems
Certain chronic conditions are great risk to the health of the pregnant woman and unborn baby during pregnancy and childbirth. Some of the common conditions that require pre-pregnancy attention are:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Infections
- Kidney problems
- STDs
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Weak cervix
- History of miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Molar pregnancy
With proper pre-natal care and medical attention, most of the problems can be overcome for successful completion of pregnancy.
Common Problems in Pregnancy
Though pregnancy could be a smooth sailing for few lucky women, for most of them it is time of suffering from various common problems that crop up at different stages of gestation. Some of the inevitable problems are:
- Constipation
- Morning sickness
- Heartburn
- Cramps in legs
- Fainting spells
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Varicose veins
- Stretch marks
- Frequent urination
- Incontinence
- Changes in skin and hair
- Hemorrhoids
- Gestational diabetes
With proper care and few adjustments, these problems can be managed without much trouble to either the mother or the baby. Healthy diet and regular exercises help a great deal in overcoming the simple problems like these.
Warning Signs that Need Immediate Attention
There is no need to panic with minor inevitable problems that crop up during pregnancy, though it is tough to distinguish between the symptoms that warrant immediate medical help and those that can wait until the next check-up is due. Some of the signs that warn impeding danger and require immediate medical attention during pregnancy are:
- Bleeding
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Baby that does not move
- Contraction in lower abdomen
- Breaking of water
- Preeclampsia
- High Fever
It is also important to consult a doctor immediately in case the pregnant woman has had a fall or there has been some trauma to the abdomen. At times the internal injury will not show any symptoms but will lead to complications in future.