Having a baby is an exciting time of life. Many women look forward to experiencing the miracle of life. However, just because it is a miraculous experience doesn't mean that it is always easy or without complications. This is why it is so important that pregnant women know what symptoms to look for that could indicate that there is a problem. Here are some signs you should be on the look out for.

1. Itching

It is not uncommon for expecting women to have irritation of the skin while they are pregnant. Since the skin is stretching so much to accommodate the growing baby, the skin may become irritated and itchy. This is normal. It is not normal however to itch all of over your body, on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. If you are itching so badly that it is waking you up in the middle of the night you might be experiencing something called cholestasis.

Cholestasis is a condition where the liver isn't removing the excess bile properly. It can be very dangerous for the baby and can actually cause still born. Your doctor can do a simple blood test to confirm the illness. If you do have cholestasis you might need to be induced early.

2. Swelling

Another fearful sign is swelling of the extremities. This could be a symptom of pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia is when you have extra protein and toxins in the blood. If the problem isn't corrected the mother could have a life threatening condition of eclampsia after she delivers the baby. She could have dangerous seizures, uncontrollable bleeding and even death. This is why you need to talk to your doctor right away if you are swelling beyond normal amounts.

3. Fever or Signs Of Infection

When you are not pregnant and you get sick there is very little to worry about. Your body will fight off the infection or you can take some medication to help treat it. However, if you are in the later stages of your pregnancy and you are running a fever or have any signs of infection you need to call your doctor. This could endanger the baby, since the baby may not be able to fight off the infection and it could be fatal for them.

By understanding the signs to look for in your body you can protect your baby as well as yourself. 

To learn more, contact a gynecology clinic like Infertility Clinic.