Pregnancy Complications: A Guide to Common Issues
Pregnancy Complications
Abortion
Definition
Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy before 5 months (20 weeks).
Types
- Spontaneous
- Provoked
- Therapeutic
Causes
The most common cause is a malformation of the zygote.
Complications
- Bleeding
- Septic abortion
- Complications of curettage
Prevention
Comprehensive monitoring from the beginning of pregnancy.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Definition
An ectopic pregnancy is an abnormal pregnancy that occurs outside the womb, usually in the fallopian tubes.
Causes
Retention of the egg in the fallopian tubes.
Signs and Symptoms
- Amenorrhea
- Lower back pain
- Nausea
Complications
Rupture with internal bleeding.
Treatment
Removal of the developing cells to avoid maternal death.
Molar Pregnancy
Definition
A molar pregnancy is a condition where the placenta grows abnormally in the first months and becomes a mass of cysts (called a hydatidiform mole). The baby (embryo) either does not form at all or is malformed and cannot survive.
Causes
The exact cause is not fully understood, but potential causes include defects in the egg, abnormalities within the uterus, or nutritional deficiencies. Women younger than 20 and older than 40 have a higher risk.
Types
- Complete: No embryo or normal placental tissue is present.
- Partial: A portion of normal placenta and embryo tissue may be present alongside the characteristic cysts.
Signs and Symptoms
A molar pregnancy may initially resemble a normal pregnancy. Around 10 weeks, the following symptoms may appear:
- Vaginal bleeding (usually dark brown)
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain (due to an enlarged uterus)
- High blood pressure
Treatment
Molar tissue must be removed from the uterus, usually through a procedure called suction curettage. In some cases, a hysterectomy may be performed. After the procedure, hCG levels are monitored for a year to ensure no molar tissue remains. Women are advised to avoid pregnancy for a year after treatment.
Multiple Pregnancy
Definition
A multiple pregnancy is the presence of more than one baby in the womb.
Types
- Dizygotic (fraternal twins)
- Monozygotic (identical twins)
Causes
- Natural conception
- Artificial insemination
Risk Factors
- Age
- Race
- Having had multiple previous pregnancies (multiparity)
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Definition
UTIs are more common in women than in men and are more frequent during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Types
- Bacteriuria (bacteria in the urine)
- Cystitis (bladder infection)
- Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Chills
- Frequent urination
Treatment
UTIs during pregnancy are usually treated with antibiotics that are safe for use during pregnancy.
Prevention
- Drink plenty of water
- Take vitamin C
- Avoid tight-fitting pants
Hypertension in Pregnancy
Definition
Hypertension (high blood pressure) during pregnancy is a common complication.
Types
- Chronic hypertension (present before pregnancy)
- Gestational hypertension (develops during pregnancy)
Complications
- Preterm birth
- Stillbirth
- Postnatal complications
Placenta Previa
Definition
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta grows in the lower part of the uterus, partially or completely covering the cervix.
Types
- Low-lying
- Marginal or peripheral
- Partial
- Complete
Causes
No specific causes are known, but the main hypothesis is related to abnormal vascularization of the uterus.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Definition
Hyperemesis gravidarum is the presence of persistent vomiting that appears in the early stages of pregnancy.
Causes
The cause is uncertain but is attributed to high levels of pregnancy hormones such as hCG, progesterone, and estradiol.
Signs and Symptoms
Vomiting typically appears in the morning and can sometimes last all day.
Treatment
Treatment may involve isolating the pregnant woman from her everyday surroundings and providing intravenous fluids and medications to reduce nausea and vomiting.