In any season of transition, there’s plenty to celebrate and plenty to navigate—pregnancy is no different! While friends and family often share advice about what to look out for, not everything you hear is based on fact. Some common “risks” are actually myths that can leave you feeling more confused than confident.
That’s why we’re here to clear things up and walk you through the top five health risks to be aware of during pregnancy. Remember, every pregnancy is different, so if you’re concerned about any risks—or anything else—be sure to check in with your doctor.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is one of the most common health risks during pregnancy, affecting about 2-10% of pregnant women, according to Yale Medicine. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, researchers believe the placenta produces hormones that can interfere with your body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This can lead to glucose building up in your blood instead of being used by your cells—and your baby’s.
One potential complication of gestational diabetes is that it can cause your baby to grow larger than average, a condition called macrosomia. This can make vaginal delivery more difficult, as there’s a chance the baby’s shoulders could get stuck during birth. In such cases, your doctor may recommend a cesarean delivery. Additionally, gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes for both you and your baby later in life.
Risk Factors:
- Obesity
- A family history of diabetes or prediabetes
- Having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
The tricky thing about gestational diabetes is that it doesn’t usually cause symptoms. That’s why your doctor will screen for it between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy—or sooner if you’re at higher risk.
The good news? While some cases of gestational diabetes are unavoidable due to risk factors, many women manage it successfully with diet and exercise. Your doctor might also recommend insulin if needed. Regular check-ins and a personalized nutrition plan can make a world of difference for both you and your baby.
Placenta Previa
The placenta is your baby’s lifeline during pregnancy, delivering oxygen and nutrients to help them grow. In most pregnancies, it attaches to the top or side of the uterus. However, in some cases, the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix—the opening between the uterus and vagina. This is called placenta previa.
Placenta previa can lead to severe bleeding, especially during labor, which can pose risks to both mom and baby. It’s most common in women with uterine scarring from previous pregnancies, uterine surgeries, or fibroids. Smoking and cocaine use also increase your risk for placenta previa.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Bright red vaginal bleeding after 20 weeks of pregnancy (sometimes triggered by sex or a medical exam)
- Spotting or bleeding without pain
In some cases, women with placenta previa experience no symptoms at all, which is why routine ultrasounds and prenatal care are so important. If diagnosed, your doctor will monitor you closely. A cesarean delivery is usually recommended 2–4 weeks before your due date to prevent complications.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a serious condition that develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and affects 5–8% of pregnancies. It’s characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and potential damage to other organs like the liver, kidneys, or brain. Left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to low birth weight, premature birth, or even stillbirth. For mothers, it can cause seizures, organ failure, or stroke.
Risk Factors:
- A history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease
- Obesity
- First-time pregnancy or pregnancies after age 35
- Expecting multiples
- A personal or family history of preeclampsia
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, managing your blood pressure, staying active, and eating a balanced diet can help lower your risk. In some cases, your doctor might recommend taking a baby aspirin daily. If preeclampsia does develop, treatment will depend on how far along you are. In severe cases, early delivery may be necessary for the safety of both mom and baby.
Infections
Pregnancy can make women more susceptible to certain infections that can affect both mom and baby. Here are a few to keep in mind:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This common vaginal infection can raise the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight if left untreated.
Chlamydia: This sexually transmitted infection can lead to complications like preterm birth and infections in the baby. Testing and treatment are key.
Syphilis: This sexually transmitted infection can lead to pregnancy complications including low birth weight and pregnancy loss. The infection may also be transmitted to the baby resulting in severe health complications for the baby including death.
Hepatitis B (HBV): This virus can be passed to your baby during delivery, so it’s important to screen for it early in pregnancy. Babies born to moms with HBV can receive treatment at birth to prevent infection.
If you are at increased risk for any of these infections you should discuss that with your doctor to ensure you have appropriate testing completed.
If you notice unusual symptoms or have pre-existing conditions, talk to your doctor right away. Early detection and treatment are essential to protecting both you and your baby.
Depression and Anxiety
Pregnancy brings a whirlwind of emotions, and it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Your body is changing, your routine is shifting, and life as you know it is about to look very different—whether it’s your first baby or your fifth.
Feelings of sadness, irritability, or anxiety can pop up during pregnancy and may affect your sleep, appetite, or ability to concentrate. For some women, these feelings persist and may lead to depression. If you’ve struggled with mental health issues in the past, it’s especially important to stay in touch with your doctor.
The good news is there are plenty of resources and treatments to help you feel your best. From therapy to lifestyle changes to safe medications, your doctor can help you find the right balance for a healthy pregnancy.