Avoiding Pregnancy Complications: Maternal Conditions in Arizona

A maternal condition is any health condition in the mother that may cause pregnancy complications. Common maternal conditions include: 

• Multiple gestation
• Preeclampsia
• Gestational diabetes
• Isoimmunization, blood type differences between the mother and baby
• Mullerian abnormalities, abnormalities of the vagina and uterus that cause problems with conception and pregnancy
• Cervical incompetence, when the cervix opens before the end of pregnancy
• Premature rupture of membranes, when a woman’s water breaks before the end of pregnancy

At Dignity Health, we know the key to preventing, diagnosing, and treating maternal conditions during pregnancy is on ongoing pregnancy care and monitoring. Our state-of-the-art Family Birth Centers at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, and Chandler Regional Medical Center provide comprehensive care for maternal conditions in Arizona.

Causes & Symptoms of Maternal Conditions

Some maternal conditions, such as Mullerian abnormalities, are congenital, or present since birth. Other possible causes of maternal conditions include:

• Genetic inheritance 
• Injury 
• Infection 

The signs and symptoms of maternal conditions depend on the condition. Your health care provider will evaluate your health, taking note of any signs, symptoms or history of medical problems. If your doctor notices any unusual symptoms, they will likely order additional tests.

Prevention & Treatment of Maternal Conditions at Dignity Health

Regular pregnancy care helps prevent some of these conditions, but others occur by chance. Throughout your pregnancy, your doctor will evaluate you and your baby’s health status and will intervene if necessary. Proper care and treatment can prevent most serious complications and increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth.

Dignity Health provides ongoing care to pregnant women with maternal conditions in Arizona.