Tag: pregnancy complications
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One Mother’s ‘Heartburn’ Turned Out to Be a Life-Threatening Condition
Read more Roma Boles had never learned about postpartum preeclampsia until after welcoming her baby. Increased patient education and attentive care are crucial in recognizing warning signs. Before leaving the hospital with her newborn daughter, Lily, in December 2021, New Jersey mom, Emma, mentioned to a nurse that she was experiencing chest pain. “It was…
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Understanding Chickenpox and Shingles During and After Pregnancy
Read more Pregnancy is a time filled with joy and anticipation, but it can also bring about health concerns that need attention. One such concern is the risk of chickenpox and shingles, which are both caused by the varicella zoster virus. Understanding these conditions is crucial for expecting mothers. What’s the Difference Between Chickenpox and…
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Understanding Gestational Hypertension
Read more As you navigate through your pregnancy journey, you might notice your blood pressure readings fluctuating. It’s not uncommon for expectant mothers to experience elevated blood pressure during this time. Let’s explore what gestational hypertension is, how it can affect your pregnancy, and what you can do to manage it. What is Gestational Hypertension?…
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Understanding Vanishing Twin Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Implications
Read more Vanishing Twin Syndrome, first identified in 1945, occurs when one twin or multiple fetuses vanish in the womb, usually due to a miscarriage. The fetal tissue from the lost twin is absorbed by the surviving sibling, the placenta, or the mother, creating the impression of a “vanishing twin.” How is Vanishing Twin Syndrome…
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Navigating a High-Risk Pregnancy
Read more If you’ve been informed that your pregnancy is considered high-risk, you might be feeling a mix of emotions. But what does it really mean? Let’s break it down together! Understanding High-Risk Pregnancy A high-risk pregnancy indicates that you may have a greater likelihood of complications due to pre-existing health conditions or issues that…
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Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy
Read more Toxoplasmosis is a rare but potentially serious infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, often found in cat feces. It can also be contracted through consuming undercooked meat or contaminated fruits and vegetables. If you’ve had cats in the past, it’s possible that you may have already been exposed to the parasite and…
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Placental Abruption in Pregnancy: Understanding the Basics
Read more Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can come with its share of complications. One such issue is placental abruption, a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely. This separation can occur before childbirth, affecting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to your baby. What is Placental Abruption? Placental abruption,…
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Understanding Pregnancy Blood Tests
Read more Pregnancy blood tests play a vital role in confirming a pregnancy and are a standard part of your prenatal care. During your initial prenatal visit, expect to undergo one of these tests, which may also be used to monitor potential complications like anemia or to diagnose infections such as toxoplasmosis. What Do Pregnancy…
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Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Read more Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly referred to as PCOS, is a hormonal imbalance that affects many women during their reproductive years. This condition can disrupt a woman’s menstrual cycle, impact fertility, affect insulin levels, and alter physical appearance. Women with PCOS typically have higher levels of male hormones, which can lead to irregular or…
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Understanding Gestational Hypertension
Read more Gestational hypertension, also referred to as pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), is a condition marked by elevated blood pressure during pregnancy. This condition can lead to serious complications such as preeclampsia, which is also known as toxemia. Approximately 6 to 8% of pregnant women experience gestational hypertension. Types of Hypertension During Pregnancy High blood pressure…