Catch The Drift On The Common Health Complications In Pregnancy

Bringing a new life into the world can be a joyous and fulfilling experience.

Not to mention that pregnancy can be a time of personal growth and self-discovery.

However, some health complications come with pregnancy that concern both the health of you and your unborn child.

Complications can arise even in pregnant women who were in good health before. 

These issues could turn the pregnancy into a high-risk pregnancy.

So, by allowing medical professionals to identify, manage, or treat concerns early on, receiving early and routine prenatal care can help lower the risk of complications. 

Rarely is there any need to be afraid, but you should let your maternity team know about anything that worries you.

What are the common health complications in pregnancy?

During pregnancy, several common health complications can arise. 

Some of the most common include:

Bleeding gums

Bleeding gums during pregnancy is common and can be caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow. 

The gums can become inflamed and more sensitive, leading to bleeding when brushing or flossing. 

This condition is known as pregnancy gingivitis.

You must maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. 

Treating gum disease during pregnancy can help prevent complications such as preterm labor and low birth weight.

Suppose you are experiencing bleeding gums during pregnancy. In that case, it’s important to contact your dentist or obstetrician to discuss the best treatment. 

In some cases, special dental cleaning is recommended. 

Keeping your gums healthy is important for both you and your developing baby.

Constipation

Constipation is a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting up to half of all expectant mothers. 

Hormonal changes increase pressure on the intestines from the growing uterus, and changes in diet can all contribute to constipation.

To help relieve constipation during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Eat a diet high in fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Exercise regularly, such as going for a walk or doing gentle stretching
• Avoid foods that can make constipation worse, such as cheese, processed foods, and high-fat foods

Suppose lifestyle changes do not help relieve constipation. In that case, over-the-counter remedies such as fiber supplements or stool softeners are recommended. 

However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy.

In severe cases, constipation can lead to complications such as fecal impaction or hemorrhoids, so it’s important to address it promptly. 

If you are experiencing persistent constipation during pregnancy, you should speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and treatment options.

Leg cramps

Leg cramps during pregnancy are a common experience. Various factors, including hormonal changes, increased weight, and dehydration, can cause them. 

Leg cramps are usually characterized by sudden and painful contractions of the calf muscles, often occurring at night.

To help relieve leg cramps during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Stretch your legs before bed
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Exercise regularly, such as going for a walk or doing gentle stretching
• Massage your legs to help relax the muscles
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
• Wear comfortable shoes with good support

Headaches

Headaches are a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting many expectant mothers at some point. 

Hormonal changes, stress, and changes in the levels of caffeine and other substances can all contribute to headaches.

To help alleviate headaches during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Get plenty of rest and avoid becoming over-tired
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga
• Avoid triggers that can cause headaches, such as bright lights, strong odors, or noise
• Massage your temples or neck
• Practice good posture

Feeling hot

Feeling hot or experiencing frequent hot flashes during pregnancy is a common experience and can be caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow. 

Pregnant women often feel more sensitive to heat, which can cause discomfort and even interfere with sleep.

To help reduce feelings of heat during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoid activities that can raise your body temperature, such as hot baths or saunas
• Use a fan or open a window to increase airflow
• Take breaks and rest regularly
• Use a cool compress, such as a damp cloth, on your forehead or neck

Indigestion and heartburn

Indigestion and heartburn are common during pregnancy and can be caused by hormonal changes and the physical pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach.

To help relieve indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones
• Avoid foods that can trigger heartburn, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
• Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down
• Wear loose-fitting clothing
• Avoid drinking fluids with meals
• Prop up the head of your bed with pillows to help reduce heartburn at night

Incontinence

Incontinence, or the loss of bladder control, is a common issue during pregnancy, especially as the uterus grows and puts pressure on the bladder. 

Hormonal changes and weakened pelvic muscles can also contribute to incontinence.

To help prevent incontinence during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Practice pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, to strengthen the muscles that control urination
• Avoid activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as heavy lifting or coughing
• Go to the bathroom regularly, and don’t wait too long to urinate
• Wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t put pressure on the bladder
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the bladder

Diarrhea

Various factors, including hormonal changes, dietary changes, and exposure to viruses or bacteria, can cause diarrhea during pregnancy.

To help prevent and treat diarrhea during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid contaminated food and water
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and clear broths, to stay hydrated
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones
• Avoid foods that can trigger diarrhea, such as spicy or fatty foods
• Avoid over-the-counter remedies unless recommended by a healthcare provider

Suppose diarrhea is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or abdominal pain. In that case, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and treatment options. 

Dehydration is a concern during pregnancy, so taking diarrhea seriously and seeking medical attention if necessary is important.

Skin and hair changes

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause many skin and hair changes, including:

Skin Changes:

• Melasma (also known as the “mask of pregnancy”) is a darkening of the skin on the face
• Acne or a flare-up of existing skin conditions
• Itching and dry skin
• Stretch marks on the belly, hips, and breasts

Hair Changes:

• Thicker and shinier hair due to increased hormone production
• Hair loss after delivery, as hormonal changes reverse

Most of these temporary skin and hair changes will resolve after delivery.

To help care for your skin and hair during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Keep your skin moisturized
• Avoid exposure to the sun and wear sun protection
• Avoid harsh skincare products
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet to support skin and hair health

Consult with a healthcare provider before using any skincare or hair care products.

Suppose skin or hair changes are severe or causing discomfort. In that case, you should speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and treatment options.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that can occur in the legs and feet during pregnancy.

They are caused by increased pressure on the veins due to the growing uterus and hormonal changes that cause the veins to relax and expand.

To help prevent or relieve varicose veins during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
• Elevate your feet whenever possible
• Exercise regularly, such as walking or swimming
• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
• Avoid tight clothing or accessories that can restrict blood flow
• Sleep on your left side to help improve circulation

You can also try these foot drills:

• Bend and stretch your foot 30 times up and down
• Rotate your foot 8 times in one direction and 8 times in the opposite direction
• Repeat both steps with the other foot

Suppose varicose veins are causing discomfort or pain. In that case, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and treatment options. 

They can recommend compression stockings or other remedies to help relieve symptoms. 

In some cases, varicose veins could require medical treatment after delivery.

Piles

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can occur during pregnancy. 

They are caused by increased pressure on the veins due to the growing uterus and hormonal changes that cause the veins to relax and expand.

To help prevent or relieve piles during pregnancy, it’s recommended to:

• Eat a high-fiber diet to help regulate bowel movements
• Avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting
• Exercise regularly to promote circulation
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Use a stool softener or a mild laxative if recommended by a healthcare provider

Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting

Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can signify hyperemesis gravidarum. 

This condition can lead to dehydration and malnutrition, harming the mother and the baby.

If you are experiencing severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, it’s important to seek medical attention. 

Your healthcare provider can help recommend treatments or medications to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

In some cases, hospitalization could be necessary for IV fluids and other treatments. 

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and to keep them informed of any changes in symptoms.

If left untreated, hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to serious complications, including electrolyte imbalances, low blood pressure, and weight loss. 

You can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby by seeking prompt medical attention.

Depression and anxiety

Depression and anxiety are common during pregnancy and can significantly impact a woman’s emotional well-being.

Pregnancy can bring many physical and emotional changes, which can trigger depression and anxiety symptoms. 

Hormonal changes, stress, and the added responsibilities of motherhood can also contribute to these conditions.

If you are experiencing depression or anxiety during pregnancy, it’s important to seek help. 

Your healthcare provider can offer support and resources and be able to recommend therapy or medication to help manage symptoms.

There are also self-care practices that can be helpful, such as:

• Engaging in regular physical activity and exercise
• Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Eating a healthy and balanced diet
• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Staying connected with friends and family for support

It’s important to remember that seeking treatment for depression or anxiety during pregnancy is important for your emotional well-being and the health and development of your baby.

Take away

Here is the list of the common health complications that occur in pregnancy:

• Bleeding gums
• Constipation
• Leg cramps
• Headaches
• Feeling hot
• Indigestion and heartburn
• Incontinence
• Diarrhea
• Skin and hair changes
• Varicose veins
• Piles
• Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting
• Depression and anxiety

It’s important to remember that every pregnancy is unique, and not all women will experience all of these health complications.

It’s also important to have a support system and to talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns early on to work on preventing the onset of these common 13 health complications.