Sep 08 2008
In Tune with Your Body During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body goes through so many changes – physically, emotionally and hormonally - so it is important to recognize when something does not seem right to you. Pain during pregnancy is somewhat common but it is important to know what a “normal” pain is as opposed to one that may be life-threatening to you, the baby or both.
Normal Occurrences
Nausea and vomiting often rear its ugly head during pregnancy and is often called morning sickness regardless of what time it occurs during the day. Some swelling in the hands and feet are normal as women do retain some water during pregnancy. Because women are eating for two (or more), there may be some occasional dizziness or shortness of breath, especially when enough calories are not consumed to provide enough energy for both the baby and mom.
What is Not Normal
While some morning sickness is quite normal, excessive vomiting or nausea during pregnancy is not and you must let your doctor know if this occurs. In addition, excessive swelling of the hands and feet to the point of pain and not being able to walk or wear shoes is a problem. This swelling can signal a host of health issues that the doctor must address immediately. While lightheadedness and periodic dizziness is normal (getting up to fast or not eating enough), persistence in these symptoms signal another underlying issue that must be addressed.
Some women during pregnancy may develop gestational diabetes (which goes away after the baby is born) which can cause some of the symptoms listed above. More serious complications like preeclampsia can also cause the swelling, dizziness and other issues such as fast weight gain, trouble with vision, high blood pressure and headaches. Not only can preeclampsia put your health in danger but your baby could also be put at risk.
Placenta previa is another condition that can cause a whole host of problems for moms during pregnancy. Vaginal breakthrough bleeding, leaking of amniotic fluid, cramping and uterine pain are all indicators of this possible condition which can endanger the baby by cutting off its oxygen supply. There are also the chance of early labor before your baby is ready to be born that could be caused by any number of factors – some being out of your control like genetics. Some of the symptoms of early labor during pregnancy could be cramping, contractions, dull aching in the lower spinal area of the back, odd discharge or even diarrhea.
It is very important that you consult with your doctor whenever you have any symptoms that may seem atypical during pregnancy. While carrying a baby in the womb can be tiring, emotional and wreak havoc on a number of bodily functions, you will likely be able to tell when some symptoms are “just not right.” Trust your instincts and get checked out if you are in the least worried about what you are feeling or experiencing.
