Pregnancy can be a beautiful time in a woman’s life, but it also brings about a range of health conditions that need to be managed. The best way to manage these conditions is by knowing what they are and how to treat them. In this blog post, we will be discussing 5 common health conditions that arise during pregnancy. These include:
- Urinary tract infection
- Gestational diabetes
- Anaemia
- Reflux
- Haemorrhoids
We will be providing information on what each condition is, why it occurs and treatment options for each one.
Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection, commonly referred to as a UTI, is an infection that occurs in the urinary system. UTIs are one of the most common health conditions during pregnancy, with around 1 in 10 pregnant women experiencing at least one episode.
The main cause of UTIs during pregnancy is hormonal changes that occur throughout the stages of gestation. These changes can increase the risk of bacteria travelling up to and infecting the urinary tract.
UTIs can be treated with a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. It is important to stay hydrated and practise good hygiene when going to the toilet (i.e. wiping from front to back) to prevent UTIs. This will help flush out bacteria that may otherwise cause an infection in the urinary tract.
Reflux
Reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the oesophagus (or food pipe). Reflux can cause symptoms such as heartburn or nausea and vomiting.
Reflux is a common condition during pregnancy, affecting around 50% of pregnant women.
The main cause of reflux in pregnancy is the increased pressure on the stomach that occurs due to the growing baby. This can lead to stomach acid travelling back up into the oesophagus.
Reflux can be treated with over the counter medications, such as antacids. Alternatively, if you don’t like taking medications, try eating smaller meals and avoid food or drinks that trigger any symptoms. Such foods include fatty or spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol.
If symptoms persist, consider visiting a gastrointestinal centre near you for further assessment, as there may be an underlying health concern.
Gestational Diabetes
One of the most serious health conditions during pregnancy is gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after the baby is born. However, if left untreated, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of complications for both mother and child.
The main cause of gestational diabetes is the increase in hormones that occur during pregnancy. These hormones can impair the body’s ability to use insulin, increasing blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes can be treated with a course of medication and by making lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy food and exercising regularly. It is important to seek medical advice if you think you may be suffering from gestational diabetes.
Anaemia
Anaemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen around the body so that anaemia can result in feelings of tiredness and shortness of breath.
During pregnancy, anaemia is a common condition, affecting around 50% of pregnant women. The main cause of anaemia in pregnancy is increased blood volume that occurs throughout gestation. This increased demand can lead to a depletion of red blood cells, resulting in anemia.
Anaemia can be treated with a course of iron supplements prescribed by your doctor or hematologist. It is important to eat iron-rich foods such as beef and spinach to prevent anemia.
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are a condition that occurs when the veins in the rectum become swollen and inflamed. Haemorrhoids can cause symptoms such as pain, itching and bleeding.
Haemorrhoids are a common condition during pregnancy, affecting around 50% of pregnant women. The main cause of haemorrhoids during pregnancy is the increased pressure on the veins in the rectum that occurs due to the growing baby. This can lead to swelling and inflammation of the veins in the rectum.
Haemorrhoids can be treated with a course of medication, such as a cream or ointment. Alternatively, you can try cold compresses or witch hazel to soothe the area. If the symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the haemorrhoids.
Conclusion
Ultimately, by preparing for these conditions, you take an active step forward for your health and your child, helping them enter the world from a healthy and happy body!
Disclosure: collaborative post
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