Early pregnancy is an exciting time of many changes in a woman’s life. Unfortunately, there are many potential complications that can happen during pregnancies both early and late on.

Understanding these complications, and how to prevent them, is critical for the health of both mother and child. In this article, we’ll explore ten of the most common risks and complications of pregnancy.

1. Miscarriage

A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy within the first 20 weeks. Miscarriages are incredibly common, and up to 25% of all known pregnancies result in miscarriage.

The most common cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities, meaning that the fetus does not develop as it should. Other factors that may increase the risk of a miscarriage include smoking, alcohol use, and drug use. There are also medical conditions or treatments that can increase the risk of miscarriage, such as thyroid disorders or certain cancer therapies.

2. Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition where the fertilized egg implants itself outside the uterus. The most common location for an ectopic pregnancy is in the fallopian tube, but it can also occur in other areas such as the ovaries or abdomen.

Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and can be life-threatening for the mother if left untreated. Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include sharp pain on one side of the abdomen, vaginal bleeding, and nausea.

3. Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to keep up with the increased demand. Gestational diabetes can be harmful to both the mother and baby.

It increases the risk of pre-eclampsia, premature delivery, and macrosomia, which is when the baby is larger than average. Gestational diabetes can usually be managed with diet and exercise, although some women may require insulin injections.

4. Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition that occurs during pregnancy, usually after the 20th week. It is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, which indicates kidney damage.

Pre-eclampsia can damage organs such as the liver, brain, and kidneys, and it can result in low birth weight and premature delivery. The only cure for pre-eclampsia is delivery of the baby, so careful monitoring is critical.

5. Placenta Previa

Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, which can block the baby’s exit from the uterus during delivery. It occurs in about 1 in 200 pregnancies.

Placenta previa can cause bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, and it increases the risk of complications such as preterm labor and fetal distress. Women with placenta previa may require a cesarean section delivery.

6. Preterm Labor

Preterm labor is labor that begins before the 37th week of pregnancy.

Preterm labor can lead to premature birth, which increases the risk of complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal infections, and intraventricular hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain). The risk factors for preterm labor include a history of preterm labor, infections such as bacterial vaginosis, and certain medical conditions such as cervical incompetence.

7. Low Birth Weight

Low birth weight is when a baby is born weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2500 grams). Low birth weight can increase the risk of complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, infections, and hearing and vision problems.

The risk factors for low birth weight include prematurity, maternal smoking, poor maternal nutrition, and certain medical conditions such as hypertension.

8. Multiple Gestation

Multiple gestation is when a woman is carrying more than one baby. Multiple gestation increases the risk of complications such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, and low birth weight.

Women with multiple gestation pregnancies require careful monitoring and may require specialized care from a perinatologist.

9. Postpartum Hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is excessive bleeding after delivery, and it can be life-threatening. The most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage is failure of the uterus to contract properly after delivery, which can lead to hemorrhage.

Other risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage include pregnancy-induced hypertension, multiple gestation, and placental abnormalities.

10. Scarring from Previous C-Sections

Scarring from previous cesarean sections can increase the risk of complications in subsequent pregnancies. The most common risk is placental abnormalities, such as placenta previa or placental abruption.

Women with scarring from previous c-sections should discuss the risks and benefits of a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) with their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a complex and delicate time, and it is essential to be aware of potential risks and complications.

By understanding these ten common complications of pregnancy, women can take steps to reduce their risk and ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. As always, regular prenatal care and communication with healthcare providers can help identify and manage any potential problems.