Warning Signs
Pregnancy Warning Signs: What To Look Out For How do you know the difference between when you should call your doctor at 3am or when the pain/symptom which has been keeping you awake for the last 3 hours is normal? We take a look at some of the most common symptoms of possible pregnancy complications that should not be ignored. Remember though, that just because a symptom is not on the list doesn’t mean you shouldn’t call your health care provider. If you are unsure, or if you can just feel that something is not right it is often best…
Premature Birth
A premature birth increases the risk of potential complications in your baby, but unfortunately it also increases the chances of death. Generally babies born prematurely weight less than 5.5lbs. In 1950 the neonatal death rate was about 2% per 1000 live births, but nowa days the rate is less than 1% over 1000 live births. What are the causes of Premature Birth? Unfortunately in most cases the causes of premature birth and labor are unknown, however there are a few reasons that we do know which may cause premature birth: Abnormally shaped uterus Multiple babies Polyhydramnios or hydramnios Placental abruption…
Fetal Distress
What Is Fetal Distress? Fetal distress, also more commonly known as “nonreassuring fetal heart tracing”, is basically a particular complication when during labor your baby’s heart beat becomes flat, or drops to a lower level repeatedly causing stress for your baby. When you are in labor your baby’s heart rate will constantly be monitored for any sign of complications or stress. There are three types of heart decelerations: Early - These are usually indicative of a head compression and are the most common of all three. Variable - These are usually indicative of a cord compression and are usually seen…
Calling Your Doctor
So you are now pregnant and you have read all the books you can get your hands on, viewed web sites etc, but do you know when you should be calling your doctor? Do you know when a sudden ache should make you call your doctor at 3a.m.? Well, I guess it is often difficult to know just when you should be calling your doctor and when you shouldn't. We can only guide you in the right direction, but my feeling is always it is better to be safe than sorry. There are a number of other issues which come…