There is nothing more stressful than to have something go wrong during pregnancy. It doesn’t matter if it is your first time being pregnant or your fourth. There are some common pregnancy concerns expectant women should know about and be prepared to take action.
Vaginal bleedingÂ
This may also be known as spotting, but be sure to know the difference between this and bleeding. This pregnancy concern must be well taken care of. There is a big difference between actively bleeding and spotting. Spotting is light bleeding almost like your period. The blood can be red, pink or even brown. If you are bleeding actively with any pain call your doctor, if you can’t get a hold of your doctor go to the emergency room immediately. Bleeding can be a number of things from implantation, ectopic pregnancy, labour, infection or even miscarriage. Always let your doctor know, so everything can be ruled out, and you will feel better too knowing that you are okay.
Stomach pain or cramping
During the pregnancy, it may be hard to decipher the difference between an actual stomach pain or cramping. However, if you do get a pain of any sort rest. After a few minutes if it doesn’t subside, call your doctor and describe the pain to your doctor. Don’t worry about it if you find out you only had gas or were having Braxton hicks contractions, at least you know everything is okay with pregnancy.
Gush of liquid
This could mean you are in labour and that your water broke, however if it isn’t close to the time of birth it can be something else. Call your doctor immediately and head for the emergency room.
Dehydration
While you are pregnant it is easy to become dehydrated, especially if you have morning sickness or just don’t drink those 8 glasses of water. If you find yourself pale, dry mouth or dizzy, you could be dehydrated and should be seen by a doctor. Dehydration can cause premature labour and or distress on the pregnancy. This is one pregnancy concern that you want to avoid and it is easy to avoid. If you do not like the taste of water, add some lemon or cucumber to the water.
Painful urination
Painful urination could be a urinary tract infection, also known as UTI. This can be easily treated with medication or by drinking lots of fluids and cranberry juice. A urinary tract infection isn’t something to be embarrassed about, this pregnancy concern is very common amongst pregnant women. The growing belly pushes against your ureters and makes it harder for it to flow through. Which of course can cause infection. Another way to find out if you have it is if you have a foul odour when you pee.
Pregnancies can be difficult enough, there is no reason to add to it. If you are ever in doubt or have a concern talk with your doctor. It is common that first-time mums are worried about many pains that they feel. As an expectant mum never be afraid of calling your doctor or feeling silly if you have a question. Being silly might just save yourself and the baby.
Reduce stress and worry, by resting well, seeing your doctor regularly and eating a healthy diet.
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