Pregnancy brings many changes to your body. Some changes are normal, while others may signal a health problem. Knowing what to watch for can help you catch issues early and keep you and your baby safe.
Common Pregnancy Health Issues
Pregnancy Gingivitis (Bleeding Gums and Dental Health)
Hormone changes during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive. This may lead to swelling and bleeding, known as pregnancy gingivitis.
What You Can Do:
- Brush and floss your teeth daily
- Use a soft toothbrush for sensitive gums
- Go to regular dental checkups, even while pregnant
Gestational Diabetes (High Blood Sugar During Pregnancy)
Gestational diabetes occurs when your body has trouble managing blood sugar during pregnancy. It usually goes away after delivery, but needs to be managed to avoid problems for you and your baby. A screening is generally done between 24-28 weeks.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Peeing often
- Feeling very hungry
- Blurry vision
- Feeling very tired
What You Can Do:
- Eat healthy foods
- Stay active
- Monitor your blood sugar
- Follow your provider’s treatment plan
Gestational Hypertension (High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy)
This condition involves high blood pressure that begins during pregnancy. If not treated, it can lead to preeclampsia, a serious complication.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision or seeing spots
- Dizziness
- Sudden swelling in the face, hands, or feet
- Pain in the upper belly
What You Can Do:
- Go to all prenatal appointments
- Follow guidance on diet and exercise
- Call your provider if symptoms get worse
Group B Strep (GBS) Infection
Group B strep is a common bacteria that can be passed to your baby during birth. While it may not cause problems for you, it can lead to serious infections in newborns.
What You Can Do:
- Your provider will test you between 35-37 weeks
- If you test positive, you’ll receive antibiotics during labor to help protect your baby
When To Get Help Right Away
If you experience any of these symptoms, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital.
- Bright red vaginal bleeding (any amount)
- Abdominal pain that does not go away
- Fever above 100℉
- Nausea that does not go away (with or without throwing up)
- Fainting or dizziness
- Vision changes like seeing things blurred, spots, or double vision
- Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet
- Pain or burning when going to pee
- Sudden feeling of being thirsty with little or no peeing for a day
- Bad-smelling vaginal discharge
- A decrease or change in the baby’s movement
- A fall, accident, or other injury
- Headaches that do not go away with Tylenol