Tag: pregnancy complications
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Fifth Disease and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more Fifth disease, also known as erythema infectiosum, is a contagious viral infection caused by human parvovirus B19. This illness spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, as well as through bodily fluids. In the United States, about 1 in 400 pregnant women contract fifth disease each year. Fortunately, most women who…
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Best and Worst States for Maternal Health
Read more In the United States, the disparities in maternal health are alarming, with the well-being of mothers and their babies varying greatly from state to state. Every year, approximately 700 to 900 women lose their lives due to pregnancy-related complications, and at least 50,000 experience severe health risks, as reported by the Centers for…
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Understanding Molar Pregnancy: An Overview
Read more Pregnancy can be a beautiful journey, yet it sometimes has unexpected twists, one of which is a molar pregnancy. This uncommon condition happens when the tissue that is supposed to develop into the placenta grows abnormally, forming a cluster of cysts instead. In simpler terms, it’s a situation where the fertilized egg doesn’t…
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Fetal Arrhythmia
Read more Fetal arrhythmia refers to any irregularity in your baby’s heart rate, which can manifest as tachycardia (an elevated heart rate) or bradycardia (a slowed heartbeat). The typical fetal heart rate ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute. This condition is relatively uncommon, occurring in only 1-2% of pregnancies. In most cases, it…
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Cervical Cerclage Explained: A Key Procedure for Pregnancy Support
Read more When a woman’s cervix is weak—often referred to as an incompetent cervix—there is an increased risk of premature birth due to the cervix shortening or opening too early. To help prevent premature labor, a healthcare provider may recommend a cervical cerclage. A cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure designed to secure the cervix…
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Stomach Pain During Pregnancy: Understanding Causes and Treatments
Read more Experiencing abdominal pain during pregnancy is not uncommon; it’s often a sign of the body’s adjustments as it prepares for the arrival of your little one. While many causes of this discomfort are benign, some may indicate a more serious issue. As an expectant mother, it’s crucial to be informed about potential causes…
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Understanding Preeclampsia: What You Need to Know
Read more Hey there, future parents! Let’s chat about a condition that can pop up during pregnancy called preeclampsia. It may sound serious, and it can be, but knowing about it helps you stay alert and keep both you and your baby healthy. What Is Preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood…
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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…