What is Pregnancy
Pregnancy is the fertilization and development of one or more offspring, known as an embryo or fetus, in a woman’s uterus. It is the common name for gestation in humans.
Intrauterine Pregnancy
Also known as normal pregnancy where the fetus is implanted inside the uterus. The placenta is attached in the endometrial lining of the uterus. This pregnancy typically lasts for 37-40 weeks (from the time of last menses).
Ectopic Pregnancy
When the fertilized ovum is implanted outside of the uterus. Surgical procedure Is necessary to treat this kind of pregnancy.
Multiple pregnancy
With this kind of pregnancy there are multiple eggs being fertilized during the fertilization stage. It may happen when two sperms enter one egg or when one egg is fertilized by one sperm that divides into two zygotes. If more than one egg is fertilized, the pregnancies will result in fraternal twins. If one egg was fertilized by two sperm, fraternal twins will result. If one egg splits into multiple zygotes, identical twins will occur. Natural multiples, including twins, triplets and quadruplets have been reported. During fertility treatments, multiples may be more likely and can create five or more fertilized and implanted fetuses.
Lupus pregnancies
Lupus is a type of auto-immune disease. Pregnancies of mothers with lupus are considered high risk. Problems will be expected. Women with lupus are recommended to visit a doctor before planning a pregnancy.
Molar pregnancy – It is a pregnancy without a fetus and with an abnormal placental development. The placenta is abnormal and the fetus has too many chromosomes. This type of pregnancy necessitates evacuation of the products of conception through suction curettage.
High-Risk Pregnancies
Women with heart problems, diabetes and hypertension or other health conditions that can affect a woman’s pregnancy are considered high risk and have a higher risk of having complications both for the mother and for the unborn child. Mothers with a history of complicated pregnancy and delivery (eg. Premature labor or birth) are likewise considered to have high risk pregnancies. Medications, series of laboratory exams and close follow up are required to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
