What Are The Dangers To Pregnancy?
No pregnant person wishes ill health or danger to themselves or their unborn baby. Beyond the normal aches and pains, it’s important to know the risks and how to identify them. Here are some dangers to pregnancy that should be discussed with your doctor.
Complications Of Pregnancy
Pregnancy can bring with it a range of potential complications, which can range from mild to serious and require medical assistance. Some of these include the following:
- pre-eclampsia
- placenta praevia
- gestational diabetes
- postnatal depression
- Rh incompatibility
- unexplained bleeding
Birth Defects
Pregnant people may also be at risk of their child being born with a birth defect. The most common birth defects are those related to the heart and spine. Other birth defects include:
- Mental retardation
- Cleft lip and cleft palate
- Musculoskeletal conditions such as spina bifida and scoliosis
- Genetic conditions such as Down Syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Marfan Syndrome
Contagious Illnesses
Pregnant people should take extra care to avoid contact with potential sources of infection. Common illnesses such as colds and flu can pose serious risks to both the pregnant person and the unborn baby. It is also important to avoid contact with anyone suffering from a contagious illness, such as measles or chicken pox.
Environmental Stressors
Pregnant people should also be aware of environmental stressors that can put them or their baby at risk. These can include:
- Lead exposure
- Radiation exposure
- Smoking and secondhand smoke
- Alcohol consumption
- Drug consumption
- Exposure to certain chemicals
Taking simple precautions to avoid these stressors can greatly reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Medical Conditions
Certain pre-existing medical conditions can also increase the risks to both the pregnant person and their unborn baby. Some of these include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Kidney or heart disease
- Thyroid problems
- Autoimmune diseases
If you have any of these conditions, it is important to let your doctor know so that they can monitor both your condition and the state of your pregnancy.
Summary
Pregnancy can be an exciting yet anxious time for expectant parents. Being informed about any potential risks or dangers can help you make the best decisions for yourself and your unborn child. Talk to your doctor about any concerns and keep up to date with the latest medical advice.
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
