Signs Of A Healthy And Unhealthy Baby In The Womb | NextMamas.
The health of the expecting mother is the first way to figure out the health of her baby. That’s why being healthy during pregnancy is very important for any woman. If you fail to take proper care of your health at this time, then there are chances that your unborn might develop certain mild to severe health issues. This implies that the mother has to be healthy to ensure the best health of her baby. There are a few more signs that you should know to make sure that your pregnancy is going hale and hearty.
Signs of a healthy baby in Pregnancy
Every parent wishes that their baby is healthy. If you notice the below signs at the initial stages of pregnancy, then you can be assured of his best health.
The right blood sugar, and blood pressure levels: Keep your blood sugar, and blood pressure in check to ensure a healthy pregnancy. In pregnancy, it is common for these levels to fluctuate. High blood pressure can lead to preterm labor. By performing regular health checkups in all trimesters, you can ensure that your baby is safe, and healthy throughout the pregnancy.
Weight gain, and Belly growth: An increase in weight and belly size are the two obvious signs of healthy development in pregnancy. In an average pregnancy, a woman gains around fifteen kilograms of weight. If your weight is consistently increasing by certain kilos, and your belly is enlarging every month, then they are a sign of healthy pregnancy.
The position of the Placenta:
The position of the placenta inside the uterus is very important. A detachment in this position can lead to premature delivery or termination of pregnancy in the form of miscarriage.
Hormone levels:
Estrogen and progesterone are the two important female hormones that have a vital role to play in the pregnancy of a woman. The level of these hormones often fluctuates in pregnancy. If you have an optimal level of both these hormones, then you are having a healthy pregnancy.
The fetal movements:
The movement of the baby is the primary indicator of the health of the baby. With passing time, your baby will gain strength and you can sense that in his movements. Not just the frequency, but the strength of his movements will increase. If that happens, then it indicates that your baby is developing in a healthy way.
Heartbeat:
Your baby’s heart will begin to beat from the fifth week of pregnancy. Electronic fetal monitoring and non-stress test are the methods that will help in monitoring the heart rate of your fetus. The heart of a healthy baby beats between 110 to 160 beats every minute.
Signs of an Unhealthy baby in Pregnancy
Here are some of the signs that show that your baby is not developing as he should be. It is important to take immediate corrective measures to deal with them.
Improper Fundal Height:
By measuring fundal height, a doctor can evaluate whether the uterus of a woman is expanding or not. If the height of the uterus is less or more than expected then it indicates some issue with the development of the fetus.
Drastic Increase in Blood Sugar:
Normal fluctuations in blood sugar levels are common in pregnancy. But if you notice an abrupt and extreme increase in this level, then it is a warning sign. It can cause pre-eclampsia and can initiate preterm labor.
Reduced heartbeat, or no heartbeat:
The heartbeat of the baby begins after the fifth week, but it is noticeable only around the tenth week. It can be detected via an electronic fetal monitoring system, and an ultrasound. If your doctor records a reduction in his heartbeat signals or fails to detect the heartbeat, then it implies either an obstruction in fetal development or a lifeless fetus.
Excessive Bleeding:
A little spotting occasionally in pregnancy is quite common, and normal. However, if you experience a high amount of bleeding then it is a red flag. It can be an indication of miscarriage or implantation bleeding.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction:
Intrauterine growth restriction is another indicator that determines the development of the fetus. A positive IUGR test implies that the fetus is ten percent smaller than its projected gestational age. Here are some symptoms that show that you are suffering from IUGR, which are: difficulty in breathing, high body temperature, and high blood sugar.
Low hCG Level:
hCG hormone is secreted by the placenta at the time of pregnancy. The level of this hormone fluctuates in different trimesters of pregnancy. Abnormally low levels of this hormone indicate miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or a destroyed ovum.
Excessive Cramps:
Poor flow of blood in the body is what results in body cramps. If you frequently notice such a condition, then it can be a warning sign.
Vagnal Discharge:
Clear, whitish, and odorless vginal discharge is normal among pregnant women. However, if the color changes to greenish, or yellowish, with a strong smell, then it becomes a serious concern. It can indicate cervical inflammation and miscarriage.
Author: Dr. Iram Gill
Dr. Iram Gill is an MBBS doctor by profession and a Content Writer by passion. She is a mother as well and has observed the health-related challenges faced by mothers and babies. She wants to play her part in increasing access and support for breastfeeding and maternal health problems.
