Health Conditions During Pregnancy

You’re doing all the right things — eating well, avoiding smoking and taking care of yourself — to give your baby the best start. Even so, pregnancy can bring some unexpected challenges. Here’s what to know about common risks and how to handle them.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens only during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can raise your blood sugar (glucose) levels, which may cause problems for you and your baby.

You’re more likely to develop gestational diabetes if you:

• Are overweight
• Gave birth to a baby weighing 9 pounds or more
• Had a baby die before birth
• Had gestational diabetes in the past
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Identify as Latin, American Indian, African, Asian or Pacific Islander

If your blood sugar isn’t controlled, your baby may face:

• Excessive weight
• Jaundice
• Low blood sugar
• Premature birth
• Stillbirth (rare)

You may experience:

• Bladder or kidney infection
• Harder birth and longer recovery
• High blood pressure
• Increased chance of cesarean delivery
• Shortness of breath

If you develop gestational diabetes, your healthcare provider will guide you with a plan for diet, exercise and blood sugar monitoring. Following that plan is key for your health and your baby’s.

Overheating

When you’re pregnant, a body temperature above 102° for more than a few minutes can increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriage. Avoid activities that can raise your temperature above 102°, such as:

• Electric blankets or heating pads
• Long, hot baths or showers
• Saunas and hot tubs
• Strenuous exercise in hot weather

If you develop a fever, call your doctor to discuss safe ways to lower it.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia — also called pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) or toxemia — affects 2% to 8% of pregnancies. No one knows exactly what causes it, but it’s more common in:

• First pregnancies
• Multiple pregnancies (twins or more)
• Women who've had preeclampsia before
• Women with high blood pressure or diabetes
• Women who are obese

Early detection is critical, so don’t skip prenatal visits. Untreated preeclampsia can cause life-threatening complications for you and your baby.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you notice:

• Pain in your upper belly or shoulder
• Rapid weight gain or swelling
• Rise in blood pressure
• Severe, persistent headache
• Trouble breathing
• Vision changes (blurring, seeing spots)

Rh Disease

Rh factor is a protein in red blood cells. If your blood is Rh negative and your baby’s is Rh positive, your body may produce antibodies that attack your baby’s blood cells. This usually doesn’t affect your first baby, but it can affect future pregnancies.

A simple blood test will show if you’re Rh negative. If so, you’ll receive an injection called RhoGAM to prevent antibodies from forming. RhoGAM is given:

• At about 28 weeks of pregnancy
• Within 72 hours after birth if your baby is Rh positive (or unknown)
• Anytime your blood may mix with your baby’s, such as after miscarriage, amniocentesis or a blow to the belly

Solvent Exposure

Breathing in fumes from solvents — such as paint thinners, lacquers and degreasers — can increase the risk of:

• Birth defects
• Miscarriage
• Premature birth
• Slow growth

Avoid solvents whenever possible. If you work with them, talk to your employer and healthcare provider about temporary reassignment. If exposure is unavoidable, keep windows open, use fans and wear gloves and a mask.

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite found in cat feces, soil and raw or undercooked meat. It can lead to preterm birth or brain damage in a developing baby.

To reduce your risk:

• Avoid touching cat feces — have someone else change the litter box
• Cook all meat to at least medium, preferably well done
• Don’t touch children’s sandboxes
• Use gloves when gardening
• Wash fresh produce thoroughly
• Wash your hands after handling raw meat, fruits or vegetables

If you think you’ve been exposed, ask your healthcare provider about a blood test and treatment options.

Pregnancy brings big changes, but knowing what to watch for can help you feel more confident and in control. Stay informed, keep up with your prenatal visits and reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns. You’re doing an amazing job — and every step you take helps keep you and your baby healthy.