A pregnancy in which the mother or baby is at an increased risk for complications or health problems.
Certain health conditions and age (over 35 or under 17) can make a pregnancy high risk.
These pregnancies require close monitoring to reduce the chance of complications.
However, having a high-risk pregnancy does not mean you or your fetus will have problems. Many people experience healthy pregnancies and normal labor and delivery despite having special health needs.
Risk Factors of High-risk Pregnancy
There are several factors that can increase the risk of a high-risk pregnancy, including:
1. Maternal age: Women who are younger than 17 or older than 35 are at a higher risk of complications during pregnancy.
2. Medical conditions: Women with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or kidney disease are at a higher risk of complications during pregnancy.
3. Multiple pregnancies: Women who are carrying twins, triplets, or more are at a higher risk of complications during pregnancy.
4. Previous pregnancy complications: Women who have had previous pregnancy complications, such as preterm labor, pre-eclampsia, or gestational diabetes, are at a higher risk of complications in subsequent pregnancies.
5. Lifestyle factors: Women who smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs during pregnancy are at a higher risk of complications.
Complications of High-risk Pregnancy
Some of the common complications associated with high-risk pregnancies include:
1. Preterm labor and delivery
2. Gestational diabetes
3. Pre-eclampsia
4. Placenta previa
5. Intrauterine growth restriction
6. Miscarriage or stillbirth
7. Birth defects
Diagnosis of High-risk Pregnancy
If you are considered to have a high-risk pregnancy, your healthcare provider may recommend additional monitoring and testing to ensure the health and well-being of you and your baby. This may include more frequent prenatal visits, ultrasounds, and other tests to monitor the growth and development of your baby.
It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider throughout your pregnancy to manage any potential complications and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
The specific tests and monitoring required during a high-risk pregnancy will depend on the individual circumstances, but may include more frequent prenatal visits, ultrasounds, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests to monitor the health and development of both you and your baby.
Prevent High-risk Pregnancy with these Simple lifestyle Changes
- Attend regular prenatal care appointments
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking or substance use
- Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing any pre-existing medical conditions
- Manage stress
What are the signs and symptoms of preterm labor, and what to do if you experience them?
Signs and symptoms of preterm labor may include:
- Regular contractions
- Low back pain
- Pelvic pressure
- Vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Change in vaginal discharge
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.
What are the options for delivery for high-risk pregnancy?
The options for delivery will depend on the individual circumstances of your high-risk pregnancy, but may include vaginal delivery, induction of labor, or cesarean delivery.
Your healthcare provider will discuss your options and help you prepare for delivery based on your individual circumstances.
