“At 37 weeks pregnant, Katarina is feeling the full effects of her pregnancy. She is exhausted, her back is hurting, and she has to go to the bathroom all the time. However, she is also excited to meet her baby soon. Katarina’s doctor has told her that she is healthy and her baby is growing well. The doctor has also advised her to start making plans after the baby is born, such as arranging for child care and packing a hospital bag. In the meantime, Katarina is trying to enjoy the last few weeks of her pregnancy by spending time with her family and friends. By the end of this nursing school case study, the student will be able to: 1) list at least three expected changes that occur during pregnancy; 2) identify at least two common discomforts/complaints associated with pregnancy; and 3) explain at least three possible complications that may occur during pregnancy.”
During pregnancy, the expectant mother will go through a variety of changes. These changes include physical, emotional, and hormonal changes.
Some physical changes during pregnancy include an increase in body size and weight, changes in skin and hair, and increased blood volume. As the baby grows, the expectant mother’s uterus will also grow. This can cause backaches and make it difficult to breathe. The expectant mother may also experience Braxton Hicks contractions, painless contractions of the uterus that can occur throughout pregnancy.
Emotional changes during pregnancy can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. These emotions are caused by the hormones released during pregnancy. The expectant mother needs to talk to her healthcare provider about any emotional changes she is experiencing.
Some of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy include an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones help to prepare the body for childbirth and lactation. They also relax the smooth muscles in the pregnant woman’s body, which can cause fatigue and dizziness.
There are many common discomforts and complaints associated with pregnancy. These include nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), indigestion and heartburn, constipation, hemorrhoids, backaches, headaches, leg cramps, sneezing, stuffy nose ( nasal congestion), and sleeping problems. Most of these discomforts are caused by physical changes during pregnancy.
While most pregnancies progress without any complications, some potential complications may occur. These potential complications include preterm labor ( before 37 weeks), gestational diabetes (high blood sugar levels during pregnancy), pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), Chandler syndrome (a condition in which urine leaks from the vagina), placenta previa ( when the placenta covers part or all of the opening to the cervix), and premature rupture of membranes ( when the amniotic sac breaks before labor begin). If these complications develop, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
At 37 weeks pregnant, you may feel anxious and excited about meeting your baby. You may also be experiencing a range of physical symptoms, including Braxton Hicks contractions, increased vaginal discharge, and back pain. It’s important to remember that every pregnancy is different, and you may not experience all of these symptoms. If you’re concerned about any changes that you’re experiencing, it’s always best to speak to your doctor or midwife. They will be able to give you advice on what to do next.
There are a number of possible causes of the signs and symptoms described in the case study. It is possible that the mother, 37 weeks pregnant, can experience pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Pre-eclampsia can lead to a variety of serious complications, including seizures and organ damage, so it is vital to seek medical attention if these symptoms are present.
Another possibility at 37 weeks of pregnancy is placental abruption when the placenta tears away from the uterine wall. The condition can be dangerous for the mother and baby and result in heavy bleeding. If the bleeding is severe, it can lead to shock and even death. Placental abruption is considered a medical emergency, so it is vital to seek medical attention immediately if this symptom is present.
Finally, it is also possible that at 37 weeks of pregnancy, a mother experiences normal pregnancy symptoms such as Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain.
At 37 weeks pregnant, you are considered full-term. That means that your baby is developed enough to be born and that you can be induced at any time. You will likely be seen by your doctor or midwife every week until you give birth. They will monitor your baby’s heart rate and blood pressure, and they may also do a vaginal exam to check your progress.
If everything is progressing normally, there is no need for medical intervention, and you can go into labor on your own. However, if there are concerns about your health or your baby’s health, you may be induced. Induction involves using medication to stimulate labor contractions. This can be done with Pitocin, which is a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin, or with prostaglandins, which are hormones that naturally occur in the body. The goal of induction is to help you have a healthy delivery.
There are several risks associated with induction, so discuss the pros and cons with healthcare providers before making a decision. These risks include infection, increased pain, and membrane rupture (breaking the water). Despite these risks, induction may be the best option if there are concerns about the mother’s or baby’s health. In some cases, preventing complications such as preeclampsia or fetal growth restriction may even be necessary. Ultimately, whether or not to induce labor is up to the mother and the healthcare provider.
Pregnancy is a time of many physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. There are also many common discomforts/complaints associated with pregnancy. While most pregnancies progress without any complications, some potential complications may occur. If complications develop during pregnancy, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Get a unique and customized 37 weeks pregnant case study.
