Common Antenatal Problems (inc PROM/hyperemisis) Flashcards
What are two common sources of chronic pain in pregnancy? Why does this pain occur?
Back and pelvis (PGP)
- During pregnancy the ligaments around the back and pelvis soften causing hyperflexibility and associated pain
What can you suggest to women with chronic backache in pregnancy?
What would warrant further investigation?
Support brace, firm mattress and flat shoes may help
You should do a full peripheral nerve examination - if there are any nerve symptoms then this should warrant further investigation
What manoeuvres exacerbate pelvic girdle pain?
How common is it?
How should it be managed?
Pushing on the pubic symphysis and pushing down on each pelvic brim (rocking pelvis from side to side)
- this can aid diagnosis
VERY COMMON (14-22%)
Usually manage with PCM - can suggest obstetric physiotherapist if severe and discuss C-section over vaginal birth
Other than backache and PGP what other MSK problems are more common during pregnancy?
Carpal tunnel syndrome
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Why is it more common in pregnancy?
The compression on median nerva as it passes under the flexor retinaculum in the anterior part of the wrist
Oedema around the wrist / hands makes carpal tunnel more common during pregnancy
What management can be suggested for carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?
Rest with elevation of the wrist can ease the oedema and thus compression
Hydrocortisone injections into the area or surgical decompression can be offered in extreme cases
What GI problems are common during pregnancy?
Constipation, Haemorrhoids and Reflux / Heartburn are really common
What often makes constipation worse during pregnancy?
Pregnant women are commonly anaemic and iron therapy makes constipation worse
What can be done to manage constipation during pregnancy?
DIETARY ADVICE important (increased fruit, veg and fibre)
Laxatives can be given but bowel stimulants such as senna should be avoided as they can stimulant uterine smooth muscle
Why do haemorrhoids occur during pregnancy?
The weight of the uterus bearing down reduced venous return from the superficial veins around the anus
How are haemorrhoids managed during pregnancy?
Consider local acting creams and always try and treat constipation - straining can increase the chance of haemorrhoids occurring
Why is reflux more likely during pregnancy?
What advice can you give for women with reflux?
- Increased abdominal pressure
- Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles
Advice
- Advise avoiding large meals, spicy food, smoking and alcohol
- Can advise to sleep in more upright position (lying down makes worse)
What medicines can be offered for reflux in pregnancy?
- 1st line: Magnesium and Aluminium antiacids safest
- 2nd line: Ranitidine (H2) or omeprazole (not lansoprazol)
What might be the cause of itching in pregnancy?
Depends if the itching is LOCALISED (usually to perineum) - cause is commonly candida infection, or pediculosis pubis)
OR GENERALISED
- Consider obstetric cholestasis, eczema, scabies or urticaria
Causes of itching + rash in pregnancy
Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (most common)
Prurigo of pregnancy
Pruritic Folliculitis
Pemphigoid gestations
How does obstetric cholestasis present?
- Intense itching - particularly bad on soles, palms and abdomen
- LFTS (increased ALT/bile/GGT)
- remember ALP is always raised (placenta)
What are the risks associated with obstetric cholestasis?
Increased risk of premature birth
How should women with obstetric cholestasis be managed?
usually inducing delivery at 37w
URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID
VITAMIN K SUPPLEMENTATION