Preeclampsia (5-8% of pregnancies)
Hypertensive disorder with new-onset BP >140/90 after 20 weeks plus proteinuria or end-organ damage. Caused by abnormal placental development.
Pregnancy Complications
Evidence-based guide to pregnancy complications: preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cholestasis, placenta disorders, preterm labor, and more — diagnosis, prevention, and management.
Gestational Diabetes (GDM) (6-9% of pregnancies)
Glucose intolerance first recognized in pregnancy. Screening at 24-28 weeks with glucose challenge test. Managed with diet, exercise, and insulin if needed.
Placenta Previa (0.3-0.5% of pregnancies)
Placenta covers the cervical os. Painless vaginal bleeding in 2nd/3rd trimester. Cesarean delivery required if persists to term.
Placental Abruption (0.5-1% of pregnancies)
Premature separation of placenta from uterine wall. Painful bleeding, uterine rigidity. Emergency delivery may be required.
Preterm Labor (10-12% of pregnancies)
Regular contractions causing cervical change before 37 weeks. Tocolytics may delay delivery 48 hours for steroid administration.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum (0.3-2% of pregnancies)
Severe nausea/vomiting causing >5% weight loss, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances. IV fluids and antiemetics required.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis (ICP) (0.2-2% of pregnancies)
Intense itching (especially palms/soles) with elevated bile acids in 3rd trimester. Associated with increased stillbirth risk; early delivery at 36-37 weeks recommended.
HELLP Syndrome (0.5-0.9% of pregnancies)
Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelets. Variant of severe preeclampsia. Can occur without hypertension. Emergency delivery required.
Ectopic Pregnancy (1-2% of pregnancies)
Implantation outside the uterus (95% in fallopian tube). Surgical emergency if ruptured. Methotrexate for unruptured cases.
Miscarriage (15-25% of pregnancies)
Pregnancy loss before 20 weeks. Most common in first trimester. >50% due to chromosomal abnormalities. Risk decreases after heartbeat confirmed.