Pregnancy Complications - Causes, Types, Risk & Solutions

• Written by Ritika Malik

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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The unparalleled experience of pregnancy is filled with many ups and downs. While most pregnancies are healthy and joyful, some may involve certain complications.There can be many reasons behind pregnancy problems, from a disease that the mother suffers from to complications during delivery. This article will help you gather knowledge on complications during pregnancy so you can help yourself or an expecting mother around you.

Stay tuned!!

What is a Pregnancy Complication? 

Pregnancy complications are health problems that affect the mother and the baby, or both. These complications often differ in severity, but some are manageable with proper care, while some might require instant clinical attention. Complications can happen at any phase of pregnancy and may lead to pre-existing health conditions, lifestyle factors, or unforeseen medical circumstances.

Common Causes of Complications During Pregnancy

Expectant mothers must identify the following causes of complications during pregnancy such as: 

Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

Premature rupture of membranes results from amniotic sac breaks that happen before labour starts. It increases the risk of infection and preterm delivery. This condition occurs due to reasons like smoking, infections, or earlier PROM events that usually cause complications.

Gestational Hypertension

Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy. It causes serious complications if left untreated, possibly leading to problems like preeclampsia. Frequent prenatal checkups and blood monitoring help manage this condition.

Preeclampsia in Pregnancy

Preeclampsia leads to high blood pressure and organ impairment, such as in the liver or kidneys. It usually happens during the 20th week of pregnancy and causes serious complications when ignored. Warning signs of this condition are headaches, vision changes, and swelling.

Liver Complications in Pregnancy

Pregnancy can weaken the liver, causing conditions such as cholestasis or HELLP (Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count) syndrome. These liver issues eventually lead to discomfort, jaundice, and other severe health complications for both the baby and the mother.

C-Section Delivery Side Effects

C-section deliveries, though sometimes necessary, may lead to complications like infections, blood clots, or delayed recovery. Mothers planning a C-section should discuss potential risks and recovery plans with their doctor to minimise complications.

Recognising Warning Signs During Pregnancy

Initial diagnosis of complications during pregnancy confirms improved outcomes. Pregnant mothers must seek clinical attention if they observe signs like:

• Sudden swelling in hands, face, or feet
• Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
• Severe or persistent headaches
• Less fetal movements
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping

Complications During Pregnancy

Pregnancy problems refer to any health condition that affects the health of the fetus or the mother. There can be different problems during pregnancy, which may differ from one mother to another. One may wonder what the most common complications of pregnancy are.  So, here is a list of complications of pregnancy that are most common:

Pregnancy Induced Hypertension Complications

High blood pressure may occur during pregnancy due to the narrowing of the placenta and arteries. A serious condition may further cause the risk of preeclampsia. Hence, immediate treatment to control high BP must be sought.

Gestational Diabetes

Some women may experience high blood sugar during pregnancy. It usually gets cured after pregnancy completes. A diet change and medication, including insulin, can help control diabetes.

Preeclampsia/Toxemia

Preeclampsia, also known as Toxemia, may begin after weeks at the start of pregnancy. It causes high blood pressure and kidney problems and may require the patient to be hospitalised. The solution may include preterm delivery by induced labour. In the case of early pregnancy stage, the patient may be admitted for close monitoring.

Miscarriage

Miscarriage is the loss of the foetus. Usually, miscarriage is reported in the first 20 weeks of the pregnancy. However, some cases may occur after 20 weeks, which is known as stillbirth. Infections, health issues of the child bearer, placenta problems, etc., may cause miscarriage.

Premature Labour Pain

If a woman goes into labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy, when the baby hasn't developed lungs and brains, it is termed preterm labour. Bed rest and medications may be advised.

Anemia

Anaemia refers to a low count of red blood cells in the body. It may cause skin paleness and complications during pregnancy.

Infections

During pregnancy, catching infections can be shared. However, immediate treatment is a must. The infections may include:

• UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Cytomegalovirus
• Streptococcus Group B
• Hepatitis B
• Toxoplasmosis (found in faeces of cats, raw meat, and soil)
• Influenza.

Complications during Labour

There can be certain complications during labour, such as:

Breech Position

If the baby turns inside and is in a position to deliver feet first rather than head, it is known as a breech position. Doctors may be able to spot it before delivery and do the needful or suggest a Cesarean Section.

Placenta Previa

When the placenta covers the cervix, it is known as placenta previa. In this case a C- section delivery may be performed.

Low Birth Weight of the Baby

Due to various conditions like cigarette smoking, alcohol or drugs, or poor diet of the mother, the baby may be born underweight. Later on, the baby may suffer respiratory or heart infections, blindness, or learning disabilities.

These are some of the common problems from the pregnancy complications list. For better diagnosis and treatment, it is highly advisable to connect with your gynaecologist. Early detection can be the best cure.

Are you at Risk of Pregnancy Complications?

The primary question that may arise is who is at risk of pregnancy complications. Women who are suffering from certain existing diseases are at higher risk of complications during pregnancy. These diseases include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Cancer
• STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
• Infections
• Epilepsy
• Anemia
• Kidney problems

Apart from the diseases, certain other conditions may also trigger the risk of complications during pregnancy. These include:

• Getting pregnant at the age of 35 or older
• Young age pregnancy
• Consumption of drugs
• Alcoholism
• Smoking cigarettes
• Anorexia, the eating disorder
• A history of abortion, miscarriage, or preterm birth
• Carrying twins or triplets pregnancy

Preventive Measures for Complications During Pregnancy

Prevention is better than cure applies to pregnancy complications as well. It is very important to be extra careful when anyone in the family is going through pregnancy. With some basic preventive measures, several complications during pregnancy can be prevented. These include:

Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet keeps away various health problems and makes you and your baby healthy. Green vegetables, fruits, fibre and a lean protein-rich diet can be helpful.

Consult Your Doctor

Make sure to stay in constant touch with your doctor and attend all the appointments and tests. Follow all the advice as suggested for a healthy pregnancy.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Try maintaining a healthy weight, as it keeps your pregnancy smooth and healthy

Quit Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs

If you have been into smoking, alcoholism, or drugs, now is the high time to quit them. It not only impacts your health but also your baby.

Be Happy!

A healthy you makes your baby healthy. It is important to think positively and try to stay calm. Keep away from stress as much as possible. Also, if you have someone in the family pregnant, try to keep them happy and jolly.

Wrapping Up!!

Pregnancy complications can be controlled and cured only if you report them on time. If you experience any pregnancy problem, make sure to inform your gynaecologist immediately so the doctor can treat it at the earliest. Also, keep yourself updated about pregnancy problems and solutions to be aware of the situation. 

Other than these, one thing that is common to think of is the medical expenses incurred during pregnancy. Regular tests, appointments, fees, delivery charges, room rent, etc., can sometimes take a toll on your savings. To make sure you have enough savings for building a bright future for the child, you may invest in maternity health insurance that covers the incurred expenses. 

We wish you good health and a happy pregnancy!

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.