Problems During Pregnancy

Pregnancy along with happiness and joy brings lots of unexpected changes in a woman's body. Due to various hormonal changes, the expecting mother experiences varying pregnancy symptoms like missed period, mood swings, vomiting, morning sickness, etc. Though these are some of the inevitable pregnancy symptoms which every woman goes through, at times there can be some mild or severe complications or problems related to the expecting mother's health which if not addressed in time can even lead to a high risk pregnancy. These common problems of pregnancy can be an outcome of various factors like stress, poor eating habits, no prenatal care and many other external factors. Therefore, it is essential for all expecting mothers and even those women who are planning to conceive to be aware of these common health problems during pregnancy. So here comes some useful information on pregnancy problems and complications.

Common Health Problems

Constipation: Constipation is one of the major complications during pregnancy suffered by many women due to hormonal changes, especially during the second and third trimesters. During this time the digestive system absorbs more water than the food which makes the feces more hard and difficult to pass. Moreover, the intestinal muscles become lose and weight of the fetus by the end of the pregnancy can also slow down the passage of waste through the intestines which can contribute to constipation. The only way to get rid of it is to eat foods high in fiber and drink plenty of water.

Vaginal Bleeding: Often mistaken for a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, vaginal bleeding can be a cause of worry especially if there is excessive bleeding. However mild vaginal bleeding or discharge during initial few weeks is usually a sign of placenta implantation in the lower part of the uterus, while blood mixed with mucus during late pregnancy can be an indication that cervix is changing and getting ready for labor to start. However, anytime during the entire nine months if there is excessive vaginal bleeding or discharge do consult a mid wife or doctor immediately.

Anemia: Anemia or iron deficiency is another pregnancy problem wherein there is a drop in the number of red blood cells in the body, resulting in an insufficient supply of oxygen to different body organs. If not addressed in time, it can lead to poor fetal growth, preterm birth and low birth weight. Having foods high in iron and some vitamin supplements can help overcoming anemia.

Hemorrhoids: Piles or hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus which may itch, ache, sore or even bleed. They mainly occur due to hormonal changes that cause the veins to relax. Other causes for hemorrhoids during pregnancy is a low fiber diet and straining during bowel movement while passing hard and dry stools, hence the best way to cure them is to have diet high in fiber and drinking enough water.

High Blood Pressure or Pre-eclampsia: Hypertension is another common pregnancy problem faced by many women. Though it is not life-threatening, if not treated in time, high blood pressure can lead to pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, swelling in the feet and legs, blurred vision, etc.

Varicose Veins: Another common problem during pregnancy is varicose veins which are basically swollen veins in the legs, but occasionally appear around the vulva (the area around the opening to your vagina) as well. Varicose veins mainly occur when the body has more blood and there is more pressure on the leg veins due to growing womb and elevated hormonal levels.

Other Problems: Below given are some other common problems which mainly occur due to hormonal changes.

• Cramps
• Backache
• Sleeplessness
• Hot flashes
• Headaches
• Faintness
• Incontinence
• Indigestion and heartburn
• Nosebleeds
• Severe itching
• Stretch marks
• Baby anxiety
• Nausea and sickness

However, to overcome the aforementioned problems during pregnancy, a pre-pregnancy visit to a health care provider is very important especially, if a woman has a prior medical problem like diabetes, hypertension, etc. Regular visits to your health care provider, proper prenatal care, healthy and balanced diet and a stress free life can enable any woman to enjoy a healthy and successful pregnancy without any pregnancy complications. Take care!