As an obstetrician & gynaecologist to many amazing pregnant women, I frequently see the challenges that women face during symptomatic pregnancies.
In addition to routine antenatal appointments, women who experience complications during pregnancy often require additional tests and monitoring, and occasionally hospitalization.
This can be incredibly frustrating for the patient, as well as taxing on the whole family, especially when there are other little ones in the household who require care. For working women, an additional layer of stress would come from having to reorganize office commitments at short notice due to unexpected developments in their pregnancies.
I empathize with all of these challenges. However, I always remind my patients that pregnancy is only temporary – whereas failing to prioritize the safety of mother and baby during this critical period could have permanent implications on both of their lives.
No two pregnancies are the same
Every pregnancy is unique; every baby is a blessing. Even for the same woman, there can be huge differences between the first and subsequent pregnancies.
Advancing maternal age and lack of downtime can contribute to the extent of symptoms such as hyperemesis (severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy) and fatigue.
Consciously avoiding comparisons, and embracing the uniqueness of each trimester, can help make the pregnancy journey more meaningful.
Just because it happened once, doesn’t mean it will happen again
Naturally, women who have experienced very difficult pregnancies may become fearful to conceive again, because they worry that they will face similar struggles in future pregnancies.
Although certain conditions (such as hypertension in pregnancy and gestational diabetes) have increased risks of recurrence in future pregnancies, early intervention measures (such as screening, and Aspirin) can significantly reduce the risks of complications from these conditions.
Other conditions, such as bleeding in early pregnancy, or miscarriage, may not necessarily affect future pregnancies. Hence it is always best to share your history and concerns early with your attending OBGYN.
Here are some tips to cope with a difficult pregnancy
- Seek support from family
- Prioritize rest – this allows your body to reset for the next day
- Look after your mental and spiritual health, too – continue to engage in activities which spark joy and feed your soul
- Don’t be afraid to inform your employer of your condition – most employers would appreciate honesty and early updates
- Get medical help when needed – if in doubt, always seek expert opinion on concerning pregnancy symptoms
And lastly, give yourself grace. Appreciate the changes of pregnancy, and listen to your body. Rest whenever you can, and work closely with your OBGYN as you look towards welcoming new life at the end of your pregnancy journey.