Pregnancy Complications
Complications can fall into the category that is harmful to the baby and/or harmful to the mother. Many women develop gestational diabetes, which only affects the mother. Preeclampsia, which elevates the blood pressure of the mother during pregnancy, can be harmful to both mother and baby. Ectopic pregnancies can put both the mother and baby at risk when the embryo attaches to the fallopian tube, instead of moving to the uterus.
Miscarriages or premature births can also happen to pregnant women with certain risk factors. When going through labor, progress can slow, causing distress for the baby and mother. In some cases, a C-section is needed to keep from causing harm to both the baby and mother.
Recently Answered
- Q What causes preeclampsia?
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We don't know what causes preeclampsia, but there are several theories, including: Not enough blood getting to the uterus Hormonal imbalances affect the size of blood vessels Damage or injury to blood vessel linings Too little calcium... Full Answer
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- Q How can I prevent preeclampsia?
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Lowering your blood pressure helps to prevent preeclampsia. If you have chronic high blood pressure, you can lower your blood pressure before pregnancy by: Exercising. Eating a diet low in sodium and rich in fruits and vegetables. Staying at a healthy... Full Answer
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- Q When should I seek immediate help if I have preeclampsia or eclampsia?
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Someone must call 911 or other emergency services immediately if you are having a seizure ( eclampsia ). Eclampsia can lead to a coma. It is life-threatening to both you and your baby. If you are pregnant and have preeclampsia, your family and friends... Full Answer
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- Q How is preeclampsia treated?
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Mild preeclampsia For mild preeclampsia that is not rapidly getting worse, you may only have to reduce your level of activity, monitor how you feel and have frequent office visits and testing. Moderate to severe preeclampsia For moderate or severe... Full Answer
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- Q What procedures treat preeclampsia and high blood pressure in pregnancy?
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There is no surgical treatment for preeclampsia. A cesarean section delivery is used when: A rapid delivery is medically needed for the mother's or baby's well-being or survival. Induction of labor has not been successful, usually after 24... Full Answer
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- Q What increases risk for preeclampsia and high blood pressure in pregnancy?
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Risk factors (things that increase your risk) for preeclampsia include: Chronic (ongoing) high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or diabetes. High blood pressure in a past pregnancy, especially before week 34. Personal history of... Full Answer
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- Q What medications help treat preeclampsia?
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Medicine for preeclampsia may be used to: Control high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure doesn't prevent preeclampsia from getting worse. That's because high blood pressure is only a symptom of the condition, not a cause. Your doctor may... Full Answer
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- Q How is high blood pressure during pregnancy diagnosed?
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Preeclampsia is usually found during regular prenatal checkups. Routine prenatal tests Certain tests are given at each prenatal visit to check for preeclampsia. These include a: Blood pressure reading. Blood pressure is always monitored closely... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of high blood pressure during pregnancy?
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If you get high blood pressure during pregnancy, you will probably not have any symptoms. It usually requires a blood pressure check to detect high blood pressure. Blood pressure is shown as two numbers. The top number ( systolic ) is the pressure... Full Answer
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- Q What are choroid plexus cysts?
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The choroid plexus is the area of the brain that produces the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This is not an area of the brain that involves learning or thinking. Occasionally, one or more cysts can form in the choroid plexus. These cysts... Full Answer
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