Reference · Conditions
Pregnancy conditions, explained.
Doula-perspective explainers on common pregnancy conditions — what each one feels like, what tends to help, and when to call your care team.
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Reference · Conditions
Doula-perspective explainers on common pregnancy conditions — what each one feels like, what tends to help, and when to call your care team.
56 conditions
Braxton Hicks contractions are the uterus's way of practicing for labor, feeling like irregular, mild tightening that often resolves with rest or hydration.
A breech baby position means your baby is positioned bottom or feet first in the uterus, rather than head-down, typically identified in the third trimester.
Cervical insufficiency is a condition where the cervix painlessly opens too early in the second trimester, potentially leading to preterm birth.
Diastasis recti is a common and expected separation of your abdominal muscles during and after pregnancy, often manageable with gentle, targeted support.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube, requiring urgent medical attention.
The fourth trimester, the first 12 weeks after birth, is a significant period of physical and emotional healing and adjustment for new parents.
Gestational diabetes (GD) is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, affecting how your body processes sugar, and is typically identified in the second or third trimester.
Gestational hypertension is a condition where high blood pressure develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, without the additional signs of preeclampsia.
Group B Strep (GBS) is a common bacteria found in some pregnant people that typically causes no symptoms but is screened for to protect the baby.
Heartburn during pregnancy is a very common and often uncomfortable experience, usually caused by hormonal shifts and uterine pressure.
HELLP Syndrome is a severe variant of preeclampsia involving specific blood and liver changes, requiring urgent medical attention.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a severe form of pregnancy nausea and vomiting, distinct from typical morning sickness, requiring medical attention.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is a serious liver condition in pregnancy causing intense itching, requiring careful monitoring and management with your care team.
Iron-deficiency anemia in pregnancy occurs when your body doesn't have enough iron to produce sufficient red blood cells, impacting energy and overall well-being.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), also known as Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR), means your baby's estimated weight is below the 10th percentile for their gestational age.
Leaking colostrum, or early breast milk, is a normal and often surprising part of late pregnancy for some, indicating your body is preparing for feeding.
Lightning crotch is a common, sharp, shooting pelvic pain in late pregnancy, often caused by the baby's position pressing on nerves.
Low blood pressure in pregnancy is a common and often normal physiological adjustment as your body adapts to support your growing baby.
Melasma, often called the "mask of pregnancy," is a common skin pigmentation that appears as dark patches on the face during the second and third trimesters.
Miscarriage, or pregnancy loss before 20 weeks, is a common experience, affecting many pregnancies, often due to factors beyond anyone's control.
Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), often called morning sickness, is a common experience during early pregnancy, involving feelings of queasiness and sometimes vomiting.
Oligohydramnios, or low amniotic fluid, is a condition affecting some pregnancies, characterized by reduced fluid levels surrounding your baby.
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a range of symptoms caused by weakness or tightness in the muscles supporting your pelvis, common during and after pregnancy.
Perinatal depression refers to experiencing depression during pregnancy or in the period after birth, impacting mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Pica is a craving for and/or eating of non-food substances during pregnancy, often linked to nutritional needs and more common than many people realize.
Placental abruption is a serious condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the uterine wall, requiring immediate medical attention.
Polyhydramnios is when there's an excess amount of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby, often identified in the third trimester, requiring close monitoring.
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is significant blood loss after birth, a serious but manageable complication that your care team is prepared to address.
Postpartum preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure condition that can develop after delivery, typically within the first few days but sometimes up to six weeks postpartum.
PPROM, or preterm premature rupture of membranes, means your water has broken before 37 weeks of pregnancy, which requires careful monitoring and support.
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, typically appearing after 20 weeks of gestation or postpartum.
Pregnancy anxiety is a common experience, affecting many expectant parents with feelings of worry and unease throughout their pregnancy.
Lower back pain and pelvic discomfort are common experiences during pregnancy, often manageable with evidence-based approaches and support.
Pregnancy Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common experience in later pregnancy and postpartum, characterized by tingling, numbness, and pain in the hand due to fluid retention.
Pregnancy constipation, or slow digestion, is a common experience that can be managed with evidence-based approaches and support from your care team.
Pregnancy dizziness and lightheadedness are common, manageable experiences often stemming from your body's significant adaptations.
This is general wellness information, not medical advice. For personalized guidance, talk with your obstetric provider.