3 Common Health Issues In Pregnancy

3 Common Health Issues In Pregnancy

While pregnancy is a journey filled with excitement and anticipation, it can bring some challenges as well. The physical and biological changes that occur are part of the phenomenal process of creating life in the womb. It is, therefore, understandable when some women experience health problems associated with this biological stage in life. For example, 8% of pregnant women are often diagnosed with preeclampsia in their second trimester. Knowing what to expect helps you take precautionary measures to mitigate them. Below are three common health issues in pregnancy worth noting.

1. Morning sickness

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Morning sickness is one of the most well-known pregnancy symptoms, no matter how many times you’ve conceived. It is characterized by nausea and vomiting and, contrary to its name, can occur at any time of the day. Morning sickness is often a mild inconvenience in some pregnant women, but for others, the intensity may require hospitalization. This condition is known in medical circles as hyperemesis gravidarum. As an extreme form of morning sickness, the condition can be debilitating and affect your daily routine. The question now is, what triggers morning sickness? Science explains it as the body’s reaction to the sharp increase in pregnancy hormones, HCG and GDF15. Fortunately, the symptoms can be managed and may go away on their own as the pregnancy progresses. It is, therefore, advisable to eat small, frequent meals to avoid having an empty stomach. Being hungry triggers nausea in pregnancy and may worsen morning sickness. Meanwhile, sipping on lemon water or ginger tea can keep the discomfort at bay. The best advice, though, is to consult your healthcare provider if nothing else works.

2. Varicose veins

Data indicates that varicose veins affect up to 40% of pregnant women, whether as a first-timer or not. This condition affects the legs by causing an appearance of enlarged, twisted veins just below the skin’s surface. It occurs when the valves in the veins get weak, causing them to become enlarged. Although varicose veins can happen to any gender, it is prevalent among pregnant women because of increased blood pressure and pressure on the veins. As the uterus expands to accommodate the fetus, it places a lot of pressure on the lower extremities. Varicose veins can present in any color, depending on your skin tone. The first thing is to consult a vein specialist when you notice these changes in your legs. You may be advised to wear compression stockings to reduce swelling and enhance blood flow. Apart from medical interventions, it is recommended to stay active throughout your pregnancy. It would help to incorporate regular exercise into your routine to prevent blood from pooling in your veins. For relief and reduced swelling, remember to elevate your legs whenever possible when in a resting position.

3. Gestational diabetes

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According to data, 10% of all pregnant women in the US are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. It is characterized by an inability to produce adequate insulin to meet fetal needs, therefore increasing blood sugar levels. That explains why constant monitoring of your blood sugar levels is crucial during pregnancy. Meanwhile, you can take better care of your health by following a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Engaging in regular physical activity can also control your blood sugar levels and manage a healthy weight in pregnancy. The most important thing, however, is for your healthcare provider to be aware of this condition and use medical interventions to keep you and the baby healthy.

Knowing your predisposing risks will be helpful in your pregnancy journey.