Complications During Pregnancy

Complications can occur at various stages in a pregnancy. Complications during early pregnancy can include a miscarriage, which is the natural termination of the pregnancy by the body, or an ectopic pregnancy, where the fetus develops outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes.

During mid-pregnancy, complications sometimes include an incompetent cervix causing the cervix to open and expel the fetus naturally. Other complications during mid-pregnancy include urinary tract infections, excessive weight gain, insufficient weight gain, and premature labor.

During late pregnancy, the most common complication is high blood pressure. Polyhydraminos can occur during late pregnancy when extra amniotic fluid develops around the fetus. Intrauterine growth retardation can occur if the fetus does not get the nutrition it needs from the placenta. Other late pregnancy complications include bleeding, early labor contractions, and delivering of the fetus before it is fully developed.

It is important to be aware of signals that could indicate something is wrong. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: vaginal bleeding, severe swelling of the face or fingers, severe abdominal pain, loss of fluids from the vagina, severe vomiting, blurred vision, painful urination, severe headache, a fever over 101 degrees, a significant decrease in the movement of the baby, regular contractions 3 to 4 weeks prior to your due date, an injury, or accident.