Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement, but it can also be a time of worry and stress. Pregnancy complications can put both the mother and baby at risk, so it’s important to take steps to ensure that you are healthy throughout this period.
According to a new study headed by USC, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia may be connected to poorer biological development in babies.
The study, which was published today in JAMA Network Open, discovered that infants who were exposed to these two pregnancy problems were physiologically younger than their chronological gestational age. The biological or "epigenetic" age of the infants is determined by molecular markers in their cells.
Pregnancy Complications
Pregnancy complications refer to health problems that can occur during pregnancy and affect the health of the mother, the developing foetus, or both. Some common pregnancy complications include:
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Gestational diabetes: A type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
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Preeclampsia: A condition characterised by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
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Ectopic pregnancy: When the fertilised egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.
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Placenta previa: A condition in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix.
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Miscarriage: The loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.
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Preterm labour: When labour begins before the 37th week of pregnancy.
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Fetal growth restriction: A condition in which the fetus does not grow as expected.
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Multiple pregnancies: A pregnancy with more than one foetus, such as twins or triplets.
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Rh incompatibility: A condition in which the mother's blood is incompatible with the fetus's blood, which can lead to severe anaemia in the fetus.
The researchers found that babies who were exposed to pregnancy complications, specifically preeclampsia or gestational diabetes while they were developing in the womb were biologically younger than babies without the exposures, indicating that these exposures may have slowed down the babies' biological development.
The difference was more noticeable in female babies compared to male babies. Exposure to hypertension didn't have a measurable impact.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes typically develops during the second or third trimester of pregnancy and can affect up to 10 per cent of pregnant women.
Some risk factors for gestational diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, being older than 25, and having certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Symptoms
Symptoms of gestational diabetes may include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and frequent infections. However, many women with gestational diabetes do not have any symptoms.
If left untreated, gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as preterm labour, preeclampsia, and macrosomia (a large baby). However, with proper management, most women with gestational diabetes can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Treatment
Treatment for gestational diabetes typically involves monitoring blood sugar levels, making dietary changes, and getting regular exercise. In some cases, medication such as insulin may be needed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Women with gestational diabetes may also need to have more frequent prenatal visits and ultrasounds to monitor the health of the baby.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and can affect up to 5 to 8 per cent of pregnant women.
The exact cause of preeclampsia is not known, but it is thought to be related to problems with the blood vessels that supply the placenta. Risk factors for preeclampsia include a history of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, carrying multiples, being overweight or obese, and having certain medical conditions such as diabetes or lupus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of preeclampsia may include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, swelling of the hands and face, headache, blurred vision, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including seizures, stroke, placental abruption, preterm birth, and low birth weight.
Treatment
Treatment for preeclampsia typically involves close monitoring of blood pressure and organ function, bed rest, medication to control blood pressure, and sometimes delivery of the baby. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary. Women with preeclampsia may also need to have more frequent prenatal visits and ultrasounds to monitor the health of the baby.
Gestational Hypertension
Gestational hypertension is a condition in which a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is similar to preeclampsia, but without the presence of protein in the urine or other signs of organ damage.
The exact cause of gestational hypertension is not known, but it is thought to be related to problems with the blood vessels that supply the placenta. Risk factors for gestational hypertension include being older than 40, carrying multiples, having a history of high blood pressure, and having certain medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gestational hypertension may include high blood pressure, swelling of the hands and face, headache, and vision changes. If left untreated, gestational hypertension can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, placental abruption, and preterm birth.
Treatment
Treatment for gestational hypertension typically involves close monitoring of blood pressure and fetal growth, and sometimes medication to control blood pressure. Women with gestational hypertension may also need to have more frequent prenatal visits and ultrasounds to monitor the health of the baby. In some cases, delivery of the baby may be necessary to prevent further complications.
How to Avoid Complications During Pregnancy
There are several steps that pregnant women can take to reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy:
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Get early and regular prenatal care
Regular prenatal visits can help identify and manage any potential complications before they become serious.
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Eat a healthy diet
A well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help ensure the mother and baby receive the nutrients they need.
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Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, which can lead to complications such as preterm labour.
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Avoid harmful substances
Smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs can all increase the risk of pregnancy complications and should be avoided.
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Manage chronic health conditions
Pregnant women with preexisting conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune disorders should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage these conditions during pregnancy.
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Exercise regularly
Moderate exercise can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and preterm labour.
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Get enough rest
Pregnant women should aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night and avoid activities that are overly strenuous or exhausting.
By taking these steps and working closely with their healthcare provider, pregnant women can help reduce the risk of complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy for themselves and their babies.
Taking Care of Your Maternal Health
Maternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. It includes physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Maternal health is important because pregnancy and childbirth can be challenging and sometimes risky for women. Maternal health also affects the health of the newborn and the entire family.
It's important for pregnant women to receive regular prenatal care and to communicate any concerns or symptoms with their healthcare provider. With proper monitoring and treatment, many pregnancy complications can be managed or prevented.
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