If a pregnant woman gains more than 400 grams per week, she should seek immediate medical attention as she may be at risk for multiples, polyhydramnios, or gestational hypertension. To mitigate risks, it is advisable for pregnant women to regularly monitor their weight.
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(Photo: HTV) |
Here are some important points to consider when monitoring pregnant women:
Counting Fetal Movements
Fetal movement is an indication of the fetus’s well-being. Monitoring fetal movements daily can provide early warnings about the safety of the pregnancy; this method is highly practical. Generally, women can begin to feel fetal movements around the 4th to 5th month. As the pregnancy progresses, these movements become more robust. Towards the end of pregnancy, the frequency of movements may decrease slightly, so it is essential to monitor this closely or visit a hospital for a check-up to confirm the fetus’s condition.
Measuring Fundal Height
Measurement of fundal height should begin from week 28 of pregnancy. If a pregnant woman cannot attend regular check-ups at a hospital, this measurement becomes even more critical. The fundal height is measured from the midpoint of the lower abdomen (fundus) to the pubic bone, and it should be measured weekly. Normally, it should increase by 0.5 to 1.5 cm weekly. If there is no increase after three consecutive measurements, it may indicate that the fetus is not developing properly. Conversely, if the height increases more than 8 cm in one week, it could indicate polyhydramnios, and immediate medical attention is needed.
Other Symptoms to Watch For
During pregnancy, a woman’s body is very sensitive, and if she experiences the following symptoms, she should be alert and seek medical care promptly:
Severe Vomiting: Mild vomiting is common in early pregnancy and usually subsides within a few weeks without treatment. However, persistent vomiting that occurs after eating or drinking can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, posing serious risks to both mother and baby, requiring immediate medical attention.
Lower Abdominal Pain: Cramping pain, feelings similar to labor, especially when accompanied by back pain and vaginal bleeding, may be early warning signs of miscarriage, preterm labor, or placenta previa.
Severe Swelling: During the middle and later stages of pregnancy, women may experience swelling in their legs, which is generally normal. However, if the swelling is severe and accompanied by high blood pressure, it may indicate gestational hypertension.
Rapid Weight Gain: Gaining more than 400 grams per week could indicate multiples, polyhydramnios, or gestational hypertension, necessitating immediate medical evaluation.
Fever, Flu, or Measles: In the first three to four months of pregnancy, contracting measles or the flu can pose significant risks to the fetus. If diagnosed with these infections, it is essential to consult an obstetrician for timely intervention.
Abnormal Urination: Painful urination or abdominal pain, coupled with chills and fever, may indicate a urinary tract infection.
Shortness of Breath and Anxiety: Towards the end of pregnancy, if a woman experiences shortness of breath or anxiety during heavy activities, it may be normal. However, if these symptoms occur during light activities or while resting, it could indicate heart issues, which require prompt medical evaluation.
Fever and Swollen Lymph Nodes: This could suggest an infection. If accompanied by fatigue, jaundice, and poor appetite, it may indicate viral hepatitis, warranting a hospital visit for testing.
Fluid Leakage from the Vagina: It is essential to check if this fluid is amniotic fluid, as it may indicate a premature rupture of membranes or preterm labor.
Vaginal Bleeding: Any vaginal bleeding should not be taken lightly. If accompanied by lower abdominal pain, it could indicate miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, placental abruption, or preterm labor, requiring immediate medical attention. However, slight bleeding in the first month may occur without other symptoms, which is usually normal and not a cause for alarm.
Additionally, pregnant women may experience symptoms such as leg cramps, constipation, varicose veins, and anemia. These symptoms are typically physiological and do not usually require medication unless prescribed by a doctor.
Self-monitoring during pregnancy can provide a more objective overview compared to hospital check-ups. Combining both practices is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of pregnant women.
