Pregnancy is a remarkable but also demanding period in a woman’s life, requiring special attention. During this time, it is important not only to monitor your health but also to be prepared for various emergency situations that may arise at different stages of pregnancy. First aid during pregnancy involves knowing how to act when dangerous or painful symptoms occur, such as bleeding, severe pain, or difficulty breathing. This set of knowledge and skills can significantly reduce the risks to both the mother's and the baby's health, as well as help ensure timely medical attention if necessary.

First aid for bleeding and blood discharge

Bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of serious problems, such as a threatened miscarriage, preterm labor, or even placental abruption. It is always a cause for concern, and it is important to immediately assess its intensity and nature. Even light bleeding requires attention, as it could be the early stage of a more serious condition.

What to do with light bleeding and heavy bleeding?

• For light bleeding (such as brown or pink discharge), it is important not to panic. It may be caused by hormonal changes, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. However, it is still important to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and rule out more serious causes.
• For heavy bleeding, especially if it is accompanied by abdominal pain or cramps, immediately call for emergency medical help. In this case, it is essential to stay calm, avoid physical exertion, and refrain from self-treatment.

When to call for emergency help

If the bleeding is severe, accompanied by pain or other concerning symptoms (such as dizziness or weakness), calling for emergency help is mandatory. This could be a sign of a threatened miscarriage or other serious conditions requiring urgent medical attention.

First aid for shortness of breath and breathing difficulty

Shortness of breath during pregnancy is a relatively common symptom caused by changes in the body. During pregnancy, blood volume increases, and the load on the cardiovascular system rises. Additionally, the growing uterus compresses the diaphragm, which makes breathing more difficult. Shortness of breath can also be caused by hormonal changes, anemia, or respiratory infections.

What to do in case of breathing difficulty?

• Try sitting or standing, slightly leaning forward, to ease your breathing.
• Avoid physical activity that may worsen the situation.
• Make sure the room has fresh air. You can ventilate the room or take several deep breaths.

When to seek medical attention immediately?

If shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or a feeling of suffocation, seek medical help immediately. These symptoms may indicate more serious conditions, such as pulmonary embolism, anemia, or heart failure, which require urgent medical attention.

First aid for falls and injuries

A fall or injury can be particularly dangerous during pregnancy, as it can affect not only the woman's health but also the condition of the fetus. It is important to remain calm and assess the situation.

• After a fall or injury, first check for any obvious damage, such as fractures or severe bruises.
• If there is severe abdominal pain, lie down immediately and try to remain still to minimize the risk of injury to the fetus.
• In the case of a head injury, if there is a headache, dizziness, nausea, or loss of consciousness, immediately call for emergency medical help.
• If there is no severe pain, but the injury causes discomfort, consult a doctor for a preventive checkup.

Assessment of condition (e.g., abdominal injury, headache)

• If you have an abdominal injury, monitor your condition, and if the pain does not subside or if cramps occur, seek medical attention immediately.
• A headache after a fall could be a sign of a concussion or other head injuries. In such cases, it is important to undergo a medical examination.

When to seek hospital care

If, after a fall or injury, you experience symptoms such as severe pain, dizziness, loss of consciousness, or notice a decrease in fetal movements, urgently go to the hospital for diagnosis and qualified medical assistance.

First aid for seizures and fainting

Seizures and fainting can occur for various reasons, such as low blood pressure, calcium or magnesium deficiency, dehydration, or hormonal changes affecting circulation. Fainting can also be caused by overheating or stress.

First aid measures for fainting

• If a woman loses consciousness, gently lay her on her back, raise her legs to improve circulation, and ensure access to fresh air.
• If the loss of consciousness was brief, offer her water or sweet tea to drink.
• In the case of a prolonged fainting episode or repeated fainting, immediately call for emergency medical help.

When hospitalization is required

Hospitalization is necessary if fainting episodes recur, are accompanied by seizures, or involve other serious symptoms (such as headache, vision problems, or difficulty breathing). A doctor should conduct an examination to rule out conditions such as hypotension, anemia, or epilepsy, which require specialized treatment.

First aid for surrogate mothers

Surrogacy in Ukraine, the USA, Canada, Georgia and many countries around the world is becoming more and more commonplace. A surrogate mother is a woman who carries and delivers a child for others, typically for a couple unable to conceive and give birth themselves due to medical reasons. It is important to understand that a surrogate mother goes through all the stages of pregnancy just like any other woman, but her role in the process differs from that of the biological mother, as she is not the genetic mother of the child, see more about surrogacy in Georgia  https://nccconline.org/blog/article/surrogacy-in-georgia.

The first aid for a surrogate mother, like for any other pregnant woman, mainly involves adhering to standard pregnancy health recommendations. However, there may be additional considerations for surrogate mothers. For example, when providing assistance or directing the woman to a hospital, it is important to inform not only her relatives but also the intended parents or the agency representing their interests.

Surrogate mothers may face emotional challenges, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. This can affect their psychological and physical well-being. In such cases, both medical and psychological support are crucial to help manage stress and anxiety. Additionally, as with all pregnant women, it is essential to be prepared for emergency medical assistance in the event of complications, such as bleeding, high blood pressure, or severe pain.

The first aid for pregnant women, including surrogate mothers, is based on quick response and the proper application of standard medical methods. Knowing how to act in various situations is essential for maintaining the health of both the mother and the child.

Timely visits to the doctor and regular check-ups are the foundation for preventing complications and diagnosing potential threats to the health of the mother and the baby. This is particularly relevant for surrogate mothers, who may experience additional physical and psychological burdens.