Problem Pregnancy

Complications with pregnancy are not uncommon; most problems are relatively mild, but some carry significant health risk to the mother, child, or both. The following table indicates the frequency of the three most commonly reported problems as a percent of all pregnancies in the U.S. in 1995 (this is birth certificate data and probably underestimates that actual incidence).

Complication Percent of all births
High blood pressure 3.41%
Diabetes 2.52%
Anemia 2.05%


Data from Ventura, et al. Report of Final Natality Statistics, 1995

Monthly Vital Statistics Report, From the CDC, Volume

45(11):1-73, June 10, 1997.

Danger Signs

Warning signs can alert you when pregnancy complications arise. Unfortunately, some women ignore these signs until the problem has become serious. Recognizing danger signs when they first occur helps you to get treatment before a critical situation develops. If you think something might be wrong, call your physician without delay.

Getting Answers to Your Questions

Your physician or midwife is the most reliable source for answers to your questions about problems in your pregnancy. There is much information on the web, some accurate and some not; however, none of it substitutes for your primary care provider. She is most familiar with your situation and is in the best position to help you.

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