The following are some of the more common pregnancy complications:

Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy is when an embryo implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes.  About 1% of pregnancies are ectopic, with half having no known risk factors. Factors that increase the risk include fertility treatments, previous tubal surgery, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine infections, and previous ectopic pregnancy. Early signs include abdominal pain and bleeding around three to six weeks after a missed period. Doctors may use ultrasound and monitor hormone levels to determine the location and viability of the pregnancy. Treatment options include medication and surgery. If left untreated, it can lead to a medical emergency if the pregnancy ruptures.

Hyperemesis gravidarum: Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. The symptoms include severe nausea and feeling faint or dizzy when standing. It can also cause persistent vomiting, which can lead to dehydration. This condition can require hospitalization and treatment with IV fluids and anti-nausea medication prescribed by the doctor.  

Miscarriage: Most miscarriages happen before 20 weeks of pregnancy, with the majority occurring before 12 weeks. They are commonly caused by genetic or chromosomal

abnormalities. Signs of a miscarriage may include severe cramps and spotting. Ultrasound and blood tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include medication to induce the expulsion of the foetus, or a procedure called dilation and curettage. Foetal loss during the second trimester can occur due to various factors, including placental issues, infections, or premature opening of the cervix, which is referred to as cervical insufficiency. Cervical insufficiency can be managed with a procedure called cerclage (a suture to help hold the cervix closed).

Amniotic fluid complications: Amniotic fluid is the liquid in the sac around the foetus. Too much (polyhydramnios) and too little (oligohydramnios) fluid may cause complications. Too much fluid can result in complications such as premature rupture of membranes, preterm labour, and respiratory issues for the mother. Factors responsible for polyhydramnios are diabetes, multiple pregnancies, infections, incompatible blood types, and congenital disabilities can contribute to increased levels of fluid. On the other hand, oligohydramnios may indicate problems such as birth defects, placental issues, restricted foetal growth, premature membrane rupture, or foetal demise.

Hypertensive disorders like preeclampsia and eclampsia: Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and an abnormal amount of protein in the urine. Eclampsia, the more severe form, is defined as seizures occurring due to this condition. Risk factors for preeclampsia include preeclampsia in a prior pregnancy, pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney and some autoimmune diseases, multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.), age younger than 18 or older than 35 at the time of delivery, and obesity. The symptoms may include high blood pressure, headaches, vision changes, shortness of breath, decreased urine output, and abdominal pain. Treatment varies based on severity and pregnancy stage, possibly involving hospitalization, bed rest, medication, close monitoring, and early delivery.

Placental complications:  Under normal circumstances, the placenta attaches to the uterine wall. Certain complications can arise, such as:

Placental Abruption

At times, the placenta detaches prematurely from the uterine wall, resulting in bleeding and reduced oxygen and nutrients reaching the foetus. This detachment can be either complete or partial. Placental abruption is more prevalent among individuals who smoke, have high blood pressure, or are carrying multiple pregnancies. It also occurs more frequently in women who have previously given birth or have a history of placental abruption. The symptoms and treatment options vary depending on the extent of detachment. Symptoms may include bleeding, cramping, and tenderness in the abdomen. Hospitalization is often necessary, and early delivery may be required.

Placenta Previa

Normally, the placenta is situated at a distance from the cervix, the opening into the uterus. However, in cases of placenta previa, it is either close to or covering the cervix. Placenta previa is more common in women with uterine scarring, a common occurrence after multiple

pregnancies. Placenta previa can also occur in those with fibroids or other uterine issues, as well as those who have undergone previous uterine surgeries. Signs and symptoms may include bright red vaginal bleeding, along with abdominal tenderness or pain. The baby is usually delivered through a caesarean section to ensure safety, as the placenta obstructs vaginal delivery.

Iron deficiency anaemia: Iron deficiency anaemia is a common complication in pregnancy, marked by insufficient iron levels leading to reduced production of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Pregnant women require more iron to support the increased blood volume and the growing needs of the foetus and placenta. If these needs are not met through diet or supplements, anaemia can develop, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Severe iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is associated with increased risks of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and postpartum depression. Effective management includes routine screening, an iron-rich diet, and supplementation to ensure adequate iron levels and promote maternal and foetal health.

Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, characterized by high blood glucose levels that can affect both the mother and baby. It typically arises due to hormonal changes that cause insulin resistance. Risk factors include being overweight, older maternal age, a family history of diabetes, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Often asymptomatic, it is usually diagnosed through glucose screening tests between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. Complications can include preeclampsia, a higher likelihood of caesarean delivery, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes for the mother, while the baby may face risks such as macrosomia (baby born much heavier than normal), neonatal hypoglycaemia, and respiratory distress syndrome. Management involves monitoring blood sugar levels, adhering to a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and possibly insulin or other medications to maintain blood glucose within the target range.

Infection: Various viral and bacterial infections have the potential to create complications during pregnancy. Examples of these include urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, group B strep, and bacterial vaginosis. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to pregnancy complications. Some infections can be transmitted to the foetus while in utero (TORCH infections). The acronym TORCH stands for a group of infections that can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby. It includes toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes, as well as other infections such as HIV, syphilis, and other infections such as HIV, syphilis, etc.

Preterm labour: Preterm labour is a complication of pregnancy where labour begins before 37 weeks of gestation, potentially leading to the birth of a premature baby. This can result in significant health challenges for the newborn, including respiratory distress syndrome, infections, and long-term developmental delays. Risk factors for preterm labour include multiple pregnancies, infections, chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, and lifestyle factors like smoking. Early signs of preterm labour include regular contractions, constant lower back pain, and changes in vaginal discharge. Prompt medical intervention and treatments like medications to delay labour and steroids to accelerate foetal lung maturity are crucial in managing preterm labour and improving outcomes for the baby.