Common Health Issues During Pregnancy

And What to Do If They Arise

Rarely any pregnancy goes by without a single health concern. Luckily, though, most of these problems are minor inconveniences. If not appropriately treated, however, some could affect the well-being of you and your baby. 

Even if you're generally healthy, issues can arise, and it's better to prepare yourself mentally and develop a strategy. Today, we'll review the most frequent conditions and ways to deal with them.

Anemia

Anemia involves having a below-average number of red blood cells. Treating its underlying causes helps restore the count to a healthy level. 

Examining your iron levels will show whether you're a victim of this condition. Moreover, as a pregnant person, you might experience tiredness and general weakness.

Luckily, taking iron and folic acid supplements will do the trick as long as it's not a severe case of anemia.

Urinary Tract Infections

A UTI is a bacterial infection of your urinary tract. 

Its traits include pain or burning while peeing, frequent visits to the bathroom, and feeling feverish, shaky, and tired. You might also experience nausea, back pain, and pressure in your lower belly, and your urine might look reddish or cloudy.

If you experience these symptoms, have your urine tested. Generally, antibiotics tend to kill the bacteria or reduce the issues in a day or two. However, not all such drugs are safe for pregnant people. 

Your healthcare provider might prescribe safe medicines or suggest a natural product as an alternative. As Utiva explains, options exist that help you resolve such infections while staying off antibiotics.

High Blood Pressure

Chronic and poorly-controlled hypertension can put you and your baby at risk. It could lead to placental abruption and gestational diabetes, as well as preterm delivery. 

If you have a hypertension diagnosis, discuss it with your healthcare provider as soon as you become pregnant. They'll help you develop a blood pressure control plan. 

Weight Gain 

Some weight gain is natural during pregnancy. However, the heavier you get, the more your risk of pregnancy complications grows. So, keep standard weight gain levels in mind. 

If you're overweight or obese before pregnancy, and you're planning for one, try to lose weight before it starts to increase the likelihood of a healthy delivery. 

Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is another common occurrence during pregnancy and nothing to worry about in general. 

However, some women experience prolonged periods of nausea, which can lead to weight loss and dehydration. Your doctor might prescribe supplements or even IV therapy to help you stay nourished.

Infections

Pregnancy by itself protects your baby from many common illnesses, like the cold, flu, and stomach bug. Still, some can harm you and the baby, so practice good hygiene and avoid spending time around sick people. 

STDs can further complicate pregnancies. If you suspect such an issue, get yourself checked and receive treatment. 

Mental Health Conditions

Pregnancies can be tough on your mental state as much as on your physical body. Some women might struggle with depression before and after their delivery.

You might experience a low mood, changes in your appetite and energy levels, cloudiness and trouble concentrating, shame, guilt, and even suicidal thoughts. 

While not each of these symptoms alone is a sign of depression, they point towards mental health issues if they occur in tandem and last over a week or two at a time. 

Getting treatment is crucial. Otherwise, you're reducing your capabilities of taking care of your body and the baby and putting yourself at risk of postpartum depression. 

The Bottom Line

Your body goes through a lot during pregnancy. Sometimes, the discomfort is unavoidable. 

However, you must know when you should get concerned and seek assistance to help yourself carry it out as comfortably as possible. Although these issues are rarely severe, it's always better to take precautions.