Pregnancy is a unique experience that is extremely rewarding but can also be stressful. There are a variety of complications which can arise at different points of the pregnancy, which can affect both baby and mother. Fortunately, there are steps that future parents can take to prevent or protect against these pregnancy complications.
Some of these complications are mild, such as swelling. The increased volume of blood and fluid can cause swelling all over the body. This retention of body fluid is called edema, and although normal, it can cause complications during pregnancy such as carpal tunnel syndrome or preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia is pregnancy complication in which the mother has high blood pressure and excessive protein in her urine. This impairs kidney and liver function and can inhibit pulmonary complications. It can also limit the amount of blood flow to the placenta, which can cause pre-term labor. Conditions like this, which impact the mother and baby, are serious pregnancy complications.
As mentioned, there are several things expectant mothers can do to manage swelling-related pregnancy complications. Pregnant mothers should avoid standing for extended periods of time, wear comfortable shoes and compression clothing, soak their feet or body in water, and rest with their feet elevated. They should also monitor what they eat. Drinking water and reducing sodium intake can help prevent swelling related pregnancy complications.