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Early signs which should not be ignored in high-risk pregnancies?
When
a woman, her baby, or both are at risk of developing unanticipated difficulties
during pregnancy or childbirth, it is called a high-risk pregnancy.
Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. Seema Sharma discusses early indicators of a
high-risk pregnancy.
1.
Pre-existing diseases: Diseases such as diabetes,
hypertension, heart or blood disorders, or foetal problems such as birth
abnormalities, genetic syndromes, anaemia, and so on can all contribute to a
high-risk pregnancy. A high-risk pregnancy can also be caused by the use of
alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes, as well as advanced mother age or a multi-foetal
pregnancy, Dr. Seema Sharma agrees.
2.
Vaginal bleeding or watery discharge: During the first
trimester, bleeding or spotting is extremely frequent. Bleeding in the second
or third trimester, on the other hand, is frequently linked to issues such as placental
abruption, preterm labour, and miscarriage. Any bleeding during pregnancy
should never be ignored, and it is essential to seek medical help as soon as
possible. Similarly, if a woman notices an odd clear or colored discharge from
her vaginal area, she should contact her doctor.
3.
Blurred vision or a change in the spectacle number on a regular basis:
Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and indicators of damage
to other organs, as well as a brief loss of eyesight, light sensitivity, and experiencing
flashing lights or spots, and fuzzy vision. It is best to call a doctor or go
to the hospital as soon as these symptoms appear, as they might progress
quickly and cause serious issues.
4.
Severe headaches or dizziness: It's usual to get a
headache or feel dizzy once in a while during the first trimester of pregnancy.
However, a persistent and severe headache, together with dizziness and blurring
throughout the body, could be a sign of preeclampsia. It can lead to major
consequences if not monitored or treated promptly.
5.
Swelling in the face, hands, or feet: Swelling in the legs,
ankles, feet, and fingers is extremely common during pregnancy, and it
frequently worsens as the pregnancy proceeds. An abrupt increase in swelling in
the face, hands, or feet, on the other hand, could be an indication of
preeclampsia and should be closely observed. Severe headaches and cloudy vision
are common during a high-risk pregnancy, and if not addressed promptly, can
lead to significant consequences.
6.
Lower abdominal discomfort or cramping: A woman's body is
preparing for the growing baby throughout the first trimester, so pain or
cramping in the stomach is typical. However, significant pain or cramping that
lasts longer than 30 minutes could suggest a high-risk pregnancy. Ectopic
pregnancy, which can be life-threatening, might be indicated by persistent
cramping that varies from mild to severe pain. Women who are experiencing
severe pain or cramps, as well as vaginal bleeding, should see a doctor right
away.
7.
Reduced foetal movement: As the pregnancy advances over 20-22
weeks, foetal movements become more prevalent, and by the third trimester,
women should be able to feel foetal activity on a regular basis. A sudden
decrease in foetal movement could be a sign that something is wrong. If a
pregnant woman does not have at least 10 foetal movements in two hours, she
should contact her doctor to ensure that she is not at risk of stillbirth or
the umbilical cord looping around the baby's neck.