Pregnancy Complications You Can Detect with Proper Antenatal Care

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Pregnancy can be exciting to experience but it also comes with challenges. Pregnant mothers go the extra mile to do everything right so they don’t put their child at risk, including restricting diets to safe foods and bulking up on nutrients. No caffeine, no hot tubs and no cats. Proper antenatal care is crucial for monitoring both the mother’s and baby’s health and identifying any potential complications early on.

Regular check-ups and screenings during pregnancy help ensure that any issues are managed promptly, leading to better outcomes for both mother and child. But what are the complications that may arise? And when are you able to catch the problems early?

Antenatal Care in Malaysia

In Malaysia, most mothers are mandated to have a pink book which becomes the essential health record referenced by doctors and clinics. Any result of complications will be seen and examined before your child is born, and healthcare professionals will ensure that you’re well-informed about what may happen and what you can do.

Pregnancy Health Issues You Can Detect

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organs, usually the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms include severe headaches, changes in vision, upper abdominal pain, and swelling of the hands and face. Early detection through blood pressure monitoring and urine tests (for protein) is crucial for managing this condition.

If detected, management strategies include medication to control blood pressure and, in severe cases, early delivery. Continuous monitoring and careful management are crucial to prevent further complications.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs when a woman develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It is usually detected through glucose screening tests between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Managing gestational diabetes involves dietary changes, exercise, and sometimes insulin therapy to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

Placenta Previa

Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or wholly covers the cervix, which can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. This is usually diagnosed through routine ultrasounds. Depending on the severity, it may require special precautions or a caesarean delivery.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

IUGR is a condition where the baby is smaller than expected for the gestational age, usually due to problems with the placenta, maternal health issues, or foetal anomalies. This condition is typically detected through ultrasounds that measure the baby’s growth and development. Close monitoring and appropriate interventions are essential to manage IUGR.

Rh Incompatibility

Rh incompatibility occurs when a mother with Rh-negative blood develops antibodies against Rh-positive foetal blood cells. This can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn. Blood tests during early pregnancy can detect Rh incompatibility, and Rh immunoglobulin injections can prevent complications.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Infection

GBS is a bacterial infection that can be passed from mother to baby during delivery, potentially causing severe illness in the newborn. Screening for GBS is typically done between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. If detected, antibiotics are administered during labour to prevent transmission to the baby.

Anaemia

Anaemia, characterised by low levels of red blood cells, is common during pregnancy. Blood tests can detect anaemia, which can be treated with iron supplements and dietary changes to ensure the mother’s and baby’s health.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum

This is a severe form of morning sickness that can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalance. Symptoms include severe nausea and vomiting. Early detection allows for interventions such as dietary changes, medications, and sometimes hospitalisation for intravenous fluids.

Congenital Anomalies

Ultrasound and other prenatal screening tests can detect structural abnormalities in the developing baby, such as heart defects, neural tube defects, and Down syndrome. Early detection allows parents and healthcare providers to plan for any necessary interventions or specialised care after birth.

Complications from Preterm Labour

Preterm labour occurs when a woman goes into labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms include regular contractions, lower back pain, and changes in vaginal discharge.

There are many factors that can cause a mother to go into preterm labour. This include infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis), uterine or cervical abnormalities, chronic maternal health conditions (like high blood pressure or diabetes), and placental problems (such as placenta previa). Lifestyle factors as well as physical trauma, high stress levels, poor nutrition, and overdistended uterus can also contribute to preterm labour.

The baby can suffer from a multitude of health issues after birth —

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): Premature babies often have underdeveloped lungs, which can lead to RDS. This condition makes breathing difficult and may require treatments such as supplemental oxygen, surfactant therapy, or mechanical ventilation.

Neonatal Jaundice: Preterm babies are more likely to develop jaundice due to an immature liver, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Treatment may involve phototherapy to reduce bilirubin levels.

Infections: Premature infants have a less developed immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. They may need antibiotics and other supportive care to fight infections.

Brain Bleeding (Intraventricular Haemorrhage):Preterm babies are at higher risk of bleeding in the brain, which can lead to developmental delays and long-term neurological problems.

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP): This eye condition affects premature infants and can lead to vision problems or even blindness. Regular eye exams are necessary to monitor and manage ROP.

Gastrointestinal Problems: Premature infants are at risk for conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious intestinal illness. Feeding difficulties and digestive problems can also arise.

This complication can also affect the mother. Preterm labour can increase the risk of maternal infections, particularly if labour is prolonged or if there are complications such as premature rupture of membranes.

The risk of heavy bleeding after delivery can be higher if labour is complicated by preterm delivery, especially if the uterus does not contract properly after birth. Additionally, the stress associated with preterm labour can have a significant emotional impact on the mother. Postpartum depression and anxiety are also more common in mothers of preterm infants.

How to Avoid Complications in Pregnancy

Avoiding complications during pregnancy involves a combination of regular medical care, healthy lifestyle choices, and proactive management of any risk factors. Here’s a guide to help minimise the risk of complications and ensure a healthier pregnancy.

Regular prenatal care including screenings and ultrasounds.
Inform your doctor immediate of any symptoms or changes.
Healthy lifestyle changes to diet and moderate exercise.
Monitor pre-existing conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, etc).

Regular prenatal care should be your top concern. Attend all your scheduled prenatal appointments to monitor the health of both you and your baby. Your doctor will track your blood pressure, weight, and foetal development. Follow through with recommended screenings and tests to detect any potential issues early, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, and glucose tolerance tests.

Be proactive in keeping track of the records, examining any changes in your body and asking your doctor questions if you have any concerns. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience unusual symptoms such as severe headaches, vision changes, sudden swelling, or persistent abdominal pain.

Of course, keep your daily consumption healthy. Eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Ensure you get adequate vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, iron, and calcium. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support your body’s increased fluid needs during pregnancy. Engage in regular, moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall well-being.

If you have pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders, work with your healthcare provider to manage these effectively. Only take medications approved by your doctor and avoid over-the-counter drugs without prior consultation.

By incorporating these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications and promote a healthier pregnancy for both you and your baby.

A Women’s Health Clinic in Alam Damai Cheras

Detect Pregnancy Complications At Klinik Azurose

Antenatal care plays a critical role in detecting and managing potential complications during pregnancy. Regular check-ups, screenings, and tests allow healthcare providers to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing baby, ensuring timely interventions and the best possible outcomes for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.