How Common Are Pregnancy Complications (and How Can the Risk Be Reduced?)

(Photo : freestocks on Unsplash)

It's natural to be concerned about pregnancy complications. Pregnancy can be unpredictable. Fortunately, most pregnancies are low-risk and can be reduced or prevented with help from your doctor. Let's take a closer look at pregnancy complications and how you can prepare for them. 

What Are Pregnancy Complications? 

Pregnancy complications refer to any medical issue that requires immediate attention during your pregnancy or delivery. These can range from minor problems, like urinary tract infections or slight bleeding, to more serious issues, like high blood pressure and preterm (premature) labor. 

How Common Are Pregnancy Complications?

The majority of pregnancies are low-risk and won't lead to further issues, but some conditions do arise during pregnancy for some women. The likelihood of developing a severe complication increases with age and health status. Around 8% of all pregnancies involve complications.

Some pregnancy complications are more common than others, and a few happen while trying to get pregnant. These include ectopic pregnancies, which are always dangerous to the mother. If you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy, you must remove the fetus as soon as possible.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Pregnancy Complications?

To reduce your risk of developing complications, there are several steps mothers can take in advance of getting pregnant, during pregnancy, and before going into labor. These include:

1. Purchasing Health Insurance

The last thing you want is to not be covered during your pregnancy. If you live in Australia, you can compare private health insurance for pregnancy on iSelect, which lets you choose your doctor and hospital room. In America, insurance helps you pay less for your pregnancy.

Remember that your labor will go much smoother if you work with a doctor you trust. It may be worth it to pay a little extra to ensure you and your baby are comfortable while in hospital.

2. Eating a Balanced Diet 

Eating a balanced diet is essential for both mother and baby. Make sure to get plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods as much as possible. Stick to more nutritious meals that contain vitamins and minerals. 

You should never smoke or drink during pregnancy. While it's okay to give in to cravings once in a while, do your best to hold off if you can. Junk food can harm you and your baby.

3. Staying Active

Exercise is beneficial during pregnancy. It helps keep your weight in check, relieves stress, and improves mental health. What's more, weight training can improve muscle tone, energy levels, and energy, which can reduce swelling in joints and ligaments while reducing pregnancy risks. 

It's easier to commit to a healthy lifestyle if you had one before getting pregnant. A drastic change in lifestyle can add further stress to you and your baby, which really isn't healthy.

4. Getting Regular Checkups

Regular visits with your healthcare provider are essential for monitoring your health throughout the duration of your pregnancy. These visits will allow doctors to detect any potential problems early on, which can prevent serious medical issues from arising during pregnancy or labor.

Speaking to your doctor regularly is one of the best ways to avoid potential complications or even birth defects. Consider booking all appointments in advance to make sure you get seen.

5. Getting Plenty of Rest

Getting enough rest can minimize stress levels while pregnant, which is known to increase complications. Stress is directly related to pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure) or gestational diabetes (diabetes during maternity). If you can take it easy during this time, please do so.

Try adopting a regular sleep pattern so that you get 8 hours per night. This will give both mommy-to-be and baby more energy and less fatigue throughout their journey together!