Are you experiencing horrible pregnancy side effects? Some women experience side effects that can seem debilitating at times. These side effects don’t make having to navigate a pregnancy decision any easier.
Under the best of circumstances, pregnancy decisions can be challenging and difficult. At Avenue Women’s Center we understand the complexities of pregnancy in the unique situation of each individual client who comes to us. Whatever the reason, if you are a woman confronting a complicated pregnancy decision, we are waiting to accompany you with information, services, and support for your decision-making process and for what follows. Many of our services are available at no cost to you. Contact us for a private, no-obligation pregnancy consultation with a caring, nonjudgmental client advocate. We are ready to accompany you in your first steps, and to continue with you on the journey ahead.
What horrible pregnancy side effects might play a part in impacting a decision about the pregnancy?
Most of us are aware that certain side effects are common in pregnancy for the majority of women. For example, about 70 – 80% of women experience some degree of nausea, commonly referred to as “morning sickness,” when they become pregnant. It may not be the same for everyone: Vomiting may or may not be part of this familiar pregnancy side effect, and it can actually occur at any time of day—not just in the morning. Other pregnancy side effects often include food aversion, swollen or tender breasts, fatigue, bloating, cramping, and constipation – even nasal congestion. Although none of these are pleasant, they’re usually expected and considered a normal part of pregnancy.
But what about other, extraordinary pregnancy side effects—horrible enough to impact your pregnancy decision? Hyperemesus gravidarum is a classification of extreme morning sickness which may require treatments with intravenous (IV) fluids, electrolytes, vitamins, nutrients, medications, or hospitalization, as it did with Kate Middleton, wife of Great Britain’s Prince William, in her first pregnancy.
This condition is rare, occurring in only up to 3% of pregnancies. It is characterized by severe vomiting, more debilitating than normal morning sickness, which does not subside. Its severity may range from mild to severe among those who are affected by it. Patients are closely monitored for excessive weight loss and dehydration.
Depending on the severity of the case, symptoms may be improved through natural methods without the need for hospitalization.
Today we have highlighted just a couple of pregnancy side effects. There are many ways that pregnancy can impact the body—some more serious than others. If you are experiencing any physical issues as a result of pregnancy, please contact a medical professional right away.
Whether it’s horrible pregnancy side effects, or one of many other possible circumstances impacting a decision about your pregnancy, we urge you to share this burden with a trustworthy, third party – a bit farther removed than friends and family. Avenue Women’s Center will provide you further information about your options as you navigate the path before you. You will be treated with respect and care. All our services are strictly confidential. Contact us by phone, text, email or chat, for an appointment at one of our five DuPage County locations serving the western suburbs: Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, or Wood Dale, Illinois. We hope to hear from you soon!
References:
- Mayo Clinic. (2017, January). Getting Pregnant. Retrieved from:mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/getting-pregnant/in-depth/symptoms-of-pregnancy/art-20043853
- Mayo Clinic. Morning Sickess. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/morning-sickness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375254 (The Mayo Clinic source did not include a date.)
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2015, December). FAQ 126. Morning Sickness: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Morning-Sickness-Nausea-and-Vomiting-of-Pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association (ASA) (2017, July).. Hyperemesis Gravidarum. Retrieved from: http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-complications/hyperemesis-gravidarum/
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.