Pregnancy is a time of immense joy, anticipation, and a whirlwind of physical changes. As your body prepares to nurture new life, it experiences a beautiful change. However, along with the glowing skin and baby bumps, some women might encounter gynaecological complications in pregnancy. These range from minor discomforts to serious pregnancy complications.
This blog will guide you through potential challenges and high-risk factors for gynaecological complications in pregnancy. Keep reading to know more.
Why Pregnancy Is a Significant Stage in Women’s Lives?
Pregnancy is a major step for women because it involves:
- Creating a New Life: Nurturing a baby within your body is a unique and powerful experience.
- Significant Physical Changes: Your body adapts dramatically to accommodate a growing foetus.
- Emotional Transformation: Pregnancy can bring joy, excitement, and anxiety, leading to emotional growth and maturity.
- Lifelong Impact: Motherhood brings immense responsibility and shapes your future in powerful ways.
How Pregnancy Affects a Woman's Body and Life?
Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman's body, preparing it for nurturing a new life. Here's a breakdown of some key aspects:
- Reproductive System: The uterus grows significantly to accommodate the growing baby. Ovaries stop ovulation (egg release) and produce hormones like progesterone to support pregnancy.
- Hormones: A surge in hormones like oestrogen and progesterone impacts various bodily functions. It leads to morning sickness, mood swings, and breast changes.
- Metabolism: The body becomes more prone to using nutrients to support both mother and baby, leading to increased appetite and weight gain.
- Circulatory System: Blood volume increases significantly to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the baby. It causes heartburn, fatigue, and swelling in the legs.
- Musculoskeletal System: The growing baby puts pressure on the back and joints, leading to aches and pains. Ligaments loosen to prepare for childbirth.
- Immune System: The immune system becomes slightly suppressed to prevent rejection of the fetus (genetically half-fathers). It makes pregnant women more susceptible to infections.
What Are the Common Gynaecological Problems in Pregnancy?
While pregnancy is a natural process, it can sometimes trigger gynaecological issues. Here's a look at some frequently encountered gynaecological problems in pregnancy:
- Vaginal Infections:
- Yeast Infections: These are characterised by itching, burning, and irritation in the vagina and vulva. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can create an environment favourable for yeast growth.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: This is a bacterial imbalance in the vagina, leading to a greyish-white discharge with a fishy odour. While not an STD, it can increase the risk of preterm birth.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are frequent occurrences during pregnancy due to the pressure of the growing uterus on the bladder. Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and blood in the urine.
- Vaginal Bleeding: While some spotting can occur during early pregnancy, any unexpected vaginal bleeding warrants immediate medical attention. It could be due to implantation bleeding, cervical polyps, or potential complications like placental abruption.
- Pelvic Pain: Round ligament pain, sharp, stabbing pain in the lower abdomen or groyne, is common during pregnancy as the uterus stretches. Other causes might be constipation, sciatica, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Gestational Diabetes: This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy due to the body's inability to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. It can increase the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
- Cervical Changes: The cervix softens and shortens as pregnancy progresses, preparing for childbirth. However, premature cervical shortening can increase the risk of preterm birth.
- Uterine Fibroids: These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. While they often don't cause problems, fibroids can sometimes lead to pain, bleeding, and complications like breech presentation (baby positioned feet first).
High-Risk Factors for Gynaecological Complications in Pregnancy
Some of the high-risk factors that require attention are:
Maternal Age:
Very Young (under 20) or Advanced Maternal Age (over 35): Both extremes can increase the risk of complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth complications.
Pre-existing Health Conditions:
Chronic Diseases: Uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and thyroid disorders can increase the risk of complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and miscarriage.
- Infections: Certain infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) increase the risk of premature birth and birth complications.
- Mental Health Conditions: Unmanaged depression or anxiety can impact prenatal care and increase the risk of complications.
Pregnancy-Related Health Conditions:
- Multiple Gestation (twins, triplets, etc.): Carrying more than one foetus can increase the risk of preterm birth, preeclampsia, and other complications.
- Placental Problems: Issues with the placenta, such as placenta previa (low-lying placenta) or placental abruption (placenta separating from the uterus), can lead to bleeding and other complications.
- Previous Pregnancy Complications: A history of miscarriage, preterm birth, or caesarean section can increase the risk of similar complications in subsequent pregnancies.
Lifestyle Factors:
- Substance Abuse: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can significantly increase the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and birth complications.
- Poor Diet: A diet lacking necessary nutrients can impact foetal development and increase the risk of complications.
- Obesity or Being Underweight: Both extremes can pose health risks during pregnancy.
Other Factors:
- Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions can increase the risk of birth complications.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Lack of access to proper prenatal care, poverty, and stress can all contribute to a higher risk of complications.
Wrapping Up
Pregnancy is a life-changing experience full of anticipation, joy, and, of course, some challenges. Familiarise yourself with common concerns and high-risk factors for gynaecological complications during pregnancy. While prioritising regular prenatal care, you can confidently move forward into this journey. Remember, a healthy and informed pregnancy leads to a healthy and happy future for you and your baby.
Concerned About Gynaecological Problems During Pregnancy? Prerana Hospital Offers Expert Care
Experience a worry-free journey to motherhood with Prerana Hospital. Our dedicated team of experienced doctors is committed to providing comprehensive maternity services designed for your needs. From regular checkups to open discussions about any concerns, we're here to ensure your pregnancy journey is smooth and joyful. Contact us for a consultation today and discover how we can support you on this incredible road to motherhood.
