Down Syndrome And Other Genetic Disorders
Like other health factors that can lead to complications during pregnancy, they can also contribute to Down syndrome or other genetic disorders.
Although there are some common genetic tests that your OB/GYN may perform, if you fall into certain categories, you may need additional genetic testing.
If the mother is 35 or older, she is at higher risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
Also, if the mother is multiple carriers, has had a previous pregnancy or a child with a genetic condition, or has a family history of genetic conditions, additional testing may be needed.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do once the baby has been diagnosed with a genetic condition.
There are some things you can do to protect yourself against genetic diseases.
Before getting pregnant, she should know her risk factors. She should also maintain a healthy diet and weight during pregnancy and avoid harmful substances like drugs and alcohol.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is often associated with high blood pressure in pregnant women.
High blood pressure during pregnancy is often a side effect of preeclampsia, which also manifests as swollen hands and feet, dizziness, headache, stomach pain, protein in the urine, and blurred vision.
At each of your prenatal visits, your doctor will check your blood pressure and a urine sample for protein and make sure your blood pressure is within a normal range.
Many factors can increase the risks of preeclampsia, such as chronic hypertension, multiple partners, obesity, in vitro fertilization, and/or multiple pregnancies.
If preeclampsia is caught early, it can be easily treated.
However, if it progresses without treatment, it can become severe enough to affect the mother’s organs. Giving delivery is the greatest therapy for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia can also cause fetal distress and lead to a cesarean section.
Preeclampsia can also be controlled with blood pressure medication, bed rest, or hospitalization if needed to monitor the mother and baby.
