It is important that you discuss with your doctor any complications you may have experienced and consider making lifestyle changes that may prevent the development of heart disease in the future.
Preeclampsia
A serious and potentially fatal pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Increases risk of placental abruption. It is important to monitor your blood pressure after delivery to make sure it returns to a safe level.
Gestational Hypertension
Consistently high blood pressure during pregnancy marked by an absence of protein in the urine. It is important to monitor your blood pressure after delivery to make sure it returns to a safe level.
Gestational Diabetes
High blood sugar that starts during pregnancy. Usually diagnosed between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy through the glucose challenge test. Some cases can be managed with dietary changes, others could require medication.
Placental Abruption
Condition in which placenta separates from the uterus before delivery. Fetal distress and vaginal bleeding can range from mild to severe. If condition suspected, requires immediate assessment.
Preterm Birth
Delivery before 37 weeks gestation. Occurs in 7.1% of all pregnancies greater than 20 weeks gestation.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Refers to poor growth of the baby during pregnancy. May be diagnosed before delivery based on ultrasound or after delivery based on baby’s gestational age and weight. A baby that is less than the fifth percentile of weight for sex and gestational age is considered growth restricted.