Pregnancy is one of the most exciting lifecycle events for many women. However, many pregnancies come with challenging women’s health issues, including nausea, fatigue, headaches, and food aversions. It’s also common for women to develop illnesses during pregnancy. Visit your doctor regularly to ensure you and your baby are staying healthy, but also watch out for symptoms of these common conditions on your own.

Women’s Health Issues During Pregnancy

1. Anemia 

Many women feel tired and weak during pregnancy, but these symptoms can also be a sign of anemia. When you’re anemic, you lack the proper amount of healthy red blood cells needed to carry oxygen throughout your body. This condition results in an iron deficiency, which is why your doctor will regularly check your iron levels during pregnancy. Your doctor may also advise you to take iron and folic acid supplements to keep your iron levels high.

2. Hypertension & Preeclampsia

Gestational hypertension, otherwise known as high blood pressure during pregnancy, can often be a sign of preeclampsia. This women's health condition typically develops during the third trimester, with common symptoms including swollen hands and feet, shortness of breath, and headaches. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to complications during birth, so be sure to speak with your doctor if you think you may be at risk. They'll monitor you carefully, and they may recommend additional prenatal checkups, bedrest, increased water intake, and cutting back on salt.

3. Depression

Mental health issues are often not taken seriously during pregnancy and written off as mood swings. However, studies have shown that the number of pregnant women with a depression diagnosis at delivery increased by seven times between 2000 to 2015. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in nine women experiences symptoms of postpartum depression. Talk to your doctor if you have a history of depression, or if you start to experience symptoms of depression during pregnancy. Common symptoms include low mood, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, changes in sleep and appetite, and problems thinking or making decisions.

If you’re concerned about your health or the health of your baby, contact the doctors at MediCenter in Kenai, AK. This family medicine clinic provides preventative care and treatment for a wide range of women’s health issues, in addition to chronic disease management, physical therapy programs, annual physicals, and more. Visit their website for a full list of services, and call (907) 283-9118 to schedule appointment today.