- Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but sometimes it comes with some complications
- Recognising these complications early can help save the lives of the mother and the baby
- TheRadar has compiled some common and uncommon pregnancy complications to prioritise maternal health awareness
Pregnancy is often described as one of the most beautiful and transformative experiences in a woman’s life. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, filled with excitement, anticipation, and joy.
However, while many women experience smooth pregnancies, others face unexpected health challenges that can put both their lives and their babies at risk. These challenges, known as pregnancy complications, range from common and manageable conditions to rare, life-threatening emergencies.
Globally, maternal health remains a crucial issue, with millions of women encountering pregnancy-related complications every year.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 800 women die daily due to preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related causes, with the highest burden in low-resource countries.
While modern medicine has significantly improved pregnancy care, awareness and early detection remain key in preventing severe complications.
In honour of International Women’s Day, TheRadar aims to shine a spotlight on the common and uncommon complications of pregnancy, providing women and families with vital knowledge to recognise warning signs, seek timely medical care, and advocate for better maternal health policies.
By understanding these complications, women can make informed decisions, improve their prenatal care, and ensure safer pregnancies and deliveries.
As we celebrate the strength and resilience of women worldwide, let’s also acknowledge the complications of pregnancy and push for better healthcare support systems to protect mothers and babies, because every woman deserves a healthy pregnancy and safe childbirth experience.
Common pregnancy complications
These are complications that many pregnant women experience. While they can be concerning, early detection and proper medical care can help manage them effectively.
1. Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones interfere with insulin production, causing high blood sugar levels.
This condition typically develops in the second or third trimester and increases the risk of:
- Excessive birth weight (macrosomia), which may lead to delivery complications
- Preterm labour and birth
- Future type 2 diabetes for both the mother and the baby
2. Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition marked by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys.
If left untreated, it can lead to:
- Eclampsia: a severe form of preeclampsia that causes seizures
- HELLP syndrome: a life-threatening condition affecting the liver and blood clotting
- Preterm birth or stillbirth
Warning signs: Severe headaches, blurred vision, swelling in hand and face, protein in urine, and sudden weight gain.
3. Miscarriage
A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks. It can be caused by:
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Uterine abnormalities
- Infections
- Uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid disorders
Warning signs: Vaginal bleeding, severe cramps, and tissue passing from the vagina.
4. Preterm labour and birth
Labour that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy can lead to:
- Low birth weight
- Breathing difficulties
- Long-term developmental issues
Risk factors: Previous preterm births, infections, smoking, and high stress levels.
5. Placenta previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, partially or completely, causing vaginal bleeding and increasing the need for a C-section.
Risk factors: Multiple pregnancies, previous C-sections, or uterine surgeries.
6. Placental abruption
A serious condition where the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery, cutting off oxygen to the baby.
Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, back pain, contractions, and heavy bleeding.
7. Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH)
Excessive bleeding after childbirth can result from:
- Uterine atony (failure of the uterus to contract)
- Retained placenta
- Birth trauma
8. Hyperemesis gravidarum (Severe morning sickness)
Unlike the regular morning sickness, this condition leads to:
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Severe dehydration
- Weight loss
9. Oligohydramnios & Polyhydramnios (Amniotic fluid issues)
- Oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid): Can cause birth defects or growth problems.
- Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid): Can lead to preterm labour and fetal abnormalities.
10. Ectopic pregnancy
A life-threatening condition where a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. If it ruptures, it causes severe internal bleeding.
- Symptoms: Sharp abdominal pain, dizziness, and heavy vaginal bleeding.
11. Depression and anxiety
Pregnancy is not just about physical health, mental health is just as important.
Many women experience prenatal depression and anxiety, which can lead to:
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Postpartum depression
- Preterm birth or low birth weight
Symptoms of pregnancy depression:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Trouble sleeping or excessive fatigue
- Anxiety, irritability, or panic attacks
Uncommon pregnancy complications
11. Amniotic fluid embolism
A rare but deadly allergic reaction where amniotic fluid enters the mother’s bloodstream, leading to heart failure and respiratory distress.
12. Molar pregnancy
A condition where abnormal tissue (instead of a foetus) grows inside the uterus, sometimes leading to cancerous growth.
13. Uterine rupture
A dangerous tearing of the uterus, usually in women with previous C-sections.
14. Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM)
Heart failure occurring during late pregnancy or postpartum, leading to:
- Severe fatigue
- Fluid buildup in the lungs
- Heart complications
15. Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)
In twin pregnancies, one baby receives more blood than the other, causing growth issues and severe complications.
16. Chorioamnionitis (Infected amniotic sac)
A bacterial infection of the amniotic fluid and sac, increasing the risk of preterm labour and fetal infection.
17. HELLP syndrome
A severe form of preeclampsia causing:
- Haemolysis (destruction of red blood cells)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Low platelet count
This condition can cause liver failure and maternal death if untreated.
18. Autoimmune pregnancy complications
Women with conditions like Lupus or Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) may experience:
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Blood clotting issues
- Stillbirth risks
Recognising the signs of complications and seeking early medical care can ensure a safer pregnancy and a healthy baby.
This International Women’s Day, let’s prioritise maternal health awareness.
Every woman deserves a safe pregnancy, and every baby deserves the best start in life.
Adesua Etomi-Wellington shares Hyperemesis Gravidarum experience after pregnant woman’s suicide
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Nollywood actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington, a mother of two, opened up about her personal experience with hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness.
This came after a recent tragic incident involving a 24-year-old pregnant woman who took her own life due to extreme morning sickness, which caught the actress's attention.