Pregnancy is a magical time in a woman’s life. She experiences an emotional roller coaster that peaks when she welcomes her new addition to the family. However, it is not without its challenges. For example, women are more susceptible to infections and may need transfusions.

The good news is that there are ways to protect yourself and your baby. These include having a healthy pregnancy, ensuring that you have the right amount of iron and other nutrients, and taking prenatal vitamins. It’s also wise to take care of yourself before and after you give birth.

Among the most common postpartum conditions are mental health problems and physical injuries. This can have long-term implications for both the mother and the child. Unfortunately, the health care system is often ill-equipped to handle these issues.

One study analyzed data on 1.8 million pregnancies, finding that rates of pregnancy complications increased by 16 percent over the previous three years. More than a quarter of all pregnant women experienced at least one complication.

In the simplest of terms, pregnancy dials down your immune system to protect your baby. Some of these changes are not obvious but are actually quite beneficial.

For example, the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding can be heart-healthy. Other changes include hormone shifts that help protect you from breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

Having a baby can be a huge accomplishment, but the experience can also be a daunting one. A new report from Blue Cross Blue Shield reveals the most common health problems facing women.