What Are Signs Of An Unhealthy Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it is essential to be aware of any signs that may indicate a potential problem. Recognizing these signs early can help you receive the necessary medical attention to ensure the health of both you and your baby. Here are some common signs of an unhealthy pregnancy:

1. Vaginal Bleeding: If you experience any bleeding from your vagina during pregnancy, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Bleeding can be a sign of various issues, such as miscarriage or placental problems.

2. Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense abdominal pain that is persistent and does not go away should not be ignored. It could be a sign of conditions like ectopic pregnancy or preterm labor, which require immediate medical attention.

3. Blurred Vision: Changes in your vision, especially blurred vision or seeing spots, can be indicative of conditions like gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, both of which can be dangerous if left untreated.

4. Swelling: While some swelling during pregnancy is normal, excessive or sudden swelling in your hands, face, or legs can be a sign of preeclampsia. Monitoring and reporting any unusual swelling to your doctor is important.

5. Persistent Headaches: Severe and persistent headaches that do not subside with rest or hydration should not be disregarded. Headaches, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can be a sign of pregnancy-related complications.

6. Excessive Vomiting: While morning sickness is common in pregnancy, persistent and excessive vomiting could lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies. Severe nausea and vomiting may require medical intervention.

7. Reduced Fetal Movement: A noticeable decrease in your baby’s movements or kicks can be a cause for concern. Monitoring fetal movement and promptly reporting any changes to your healthcare provider is essential.

8. High Fever: Running a high fever during pregnancy can be harmful to both you and your baby. Fever could indicate an infection that needs to be treated promptly to prevent any complications.

9. Difficulty Breathing: If you experience sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, it could be a sign of conditions like pulmonary embolism or complications related to high blood pressure.

10. Persistent Itching: Intense and persistent itching, especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet, can be a symptom of conditions like cholestasis of pregnancy, which may require medical attention.

11. Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying during pregnancy is not normal and could signify underlying issues that need to be addressed by your healthcare provider.

12. Psychological Changes: Severe mood swings, feelings of extreme sadness or anxiety, or changes in mental wellness should not be dismissed. Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being during pregnancy.

What Are Signs Of An Unhealthy Pregnancy?

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Nancy Sherman

Nancy Sherman has more than a decade of experience in education and is passionate about helping schools, teachers, and students succeed. She began her career as a Teaching Fellow in NY where she worked with educators to develop their instructional practice. Since then she held diverse roles in the field including Educational Researcher, Academic Director for a non-profit foundation, Curriculum Expert and Coach, while also serving on boards of directors for multiple organizations. She is trained in Project-Based Learning, Capstone Design (PBL), Competency-Based Evaluation (CBE) and Social Emotional Learning Development (SELD).