Late Pregnancy Complications and Warning Signs, You Can't Ignore

Late pregnancy complications have become significant and must be identified and monitored during pregnancy—the early weeks of the third trimester. Pregnant mothers should know what symptoms of their pregnancy are normal and what is not. Keeping track of the important dates using a pregnancy calculator will help one stay prepared. Here are some late pregnancy complications and their warning signs that you should know to keep you and your baby healthy and safe.

1. Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is one of the more significant complications in late pregnancy stages. It is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and significant amounts of protein within the urine, which usually presents after the 20th week. This condition can be quite dangerous if left untreated and leads to liver and kidney damage, placental abruption, and preterm birth.

Preeclampsia can happen at any time after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Keep visiting your doctor to keep up with your health and pregnancy symptoms. If mild preeclampsia is diagnosed, you may be asked to regularly check your blood pressure and urine to keep control of the condition.

Warning Signs:

• Change in vision, including blurry vision or temporary blindness

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea and vomiting

• Severe headache

• Vaginal bleeding

• Lessened urine output

2. Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes arises when the body fails to keep blood sugar levels at a manageable level during pregnancy. It most commonly occurs in the later stages of pregnancy. Delivery of the baby becomes complicated due to the high birth weight. Gestational diabetes can be controlled by monitoring blood sugar levels. Blood sugar can be reduced by managing your diet and including exercises like yoga, walking, and swimming.

Warning Signs:

• Frequent urination

• Increased thirst

• Dry mouth

• Blurred eyesight

• Genital itching

3. Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is one of many conditions in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery, depriving the baby of vital nutrients and oxygen. The moment such a condition is suspected, immediate medical intervention is necessary because it will impact both the mother and the baby. It can make all the difference if recognized early and care sought promptly.

Warning Signs:

• Vaginal bleeding

• Abdominal and Back pain

• Continuous uterine contractions

4. Preterm Labor

Preterm labor, or the start of labor before 37 weeks, complicates the baby because most of the major organs and body systems are underdeveloped. Early intervention may delay labor, giving the baby more time to develop inside the womb. Tracking the stages of pregnancy using a pregnancy calculator gives an easy timeline of fetal development. Thus, one can spot high-risk periods for preterm labor and prepare in advance accordingly.

Warning Signs:

• Frequent uterine contractions in an hour

• Menstrual-like cramps in the lower abdomen

• Pressure in the lower pelvic region

• Change in vaginal discharge

5. Fetal Distress

Fetal distress is identified by the baby's inability to receive enough oxygen, which can be confirmed through decreased fetal movement or an abnormal heart rhythm. Ultrasounds and non-stress tests are common practices to assess the baby's condition, and the provider will act quickly if the provider identifies the state of fetal distress.

Warning Signs:

• Increased fetal heart rate

• Non-existent fetal movement

• Greenish brown liquid when water breaks

Conclusion

In the last weeks before birth, especially during the third trimester, important milestones, symptoms, and health measurements of both mother and child should be noted. Pregnancy calculations: tracking fetal growth, due dates, and the marked milestones of each trimester helps mothers be prepared and note potential complications in good time. Monitoring their pregnancies regularly is important so that all medical appointments and treatments are not missed, thus safeguarding the health of the mother and the child.

Cord blood banking is a premium service that Cryoviva Biotech offers to parents who want to be in control of their pregnancy timelines. Storing and collecting cord blood at birth means having access to blood stem cells, which could save lives and maybe be useful in future medical procedures. This gives parents peace of mind about the long-term health of their children.