Most people may experience the excitement and thrill frequently depicted as being associated with pregnancy. But as medical professionals, it can be challenging to overlook the health dangers and anxieties that some of the most defenseless patients may experience after a positive pregnancy test.

Pregnancy-associated with various short- and long-term health risks 

There are serious short- and long-term health risks associated with pregnancy, especially in the US. With an average of 700 deaths annually, the US has the greatest rate of severe pregnancy-related problems among developed countries. Moreover, this health cost is distributed unequally, disproportionately affecting low-income and women of color. For instance, Black women are thrice more likely to die from pregnancy-linked problems than White women.

Pregnancy is a continuous stress test that strains the body’s system and leads to certain health risks. It alters how the heart, kidneys, and lungs work. It also affects many organs, disrupting immune function and impacting metabolism. The body’s blood circulation is increased as a result. Anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other medical issues will be further affected. Pregnancy could also exacerbate the symptoms of pre-existing mental health conditions like anxiety and sadness.

Risks associated with pregnancy 

Two health risks unique to pregnancy include postpartum hemorrhage and preeclampsia. Preeclampsia causes high blood pressure and potential damage to organs such as the brain, liver, and kidneys. Pregnancy adds more strain to the blood vessels and arteries. The Preeclampsia Foundation indicates that pregnancy could triple cardiovascular risks like heart attack and stroke. Some of the preeclampsia risk factors include being younger than 18 years or more than 40 years, having high blood pressure or autoimmune disorders like lupus, and having a history of preeclampsia in the previous history.

Postpartum hemorrhage, excessive bleeding after birth, is another risk factor and can occur even with uncomplicated pregnancies. Usually, women can navigate pregnancy safely when one is healthy, but with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, complications and death risk is high. Pregnancies in later years are common, and most pregnancies are complicated by existing cardiovascular disease.