If your pregnancy is labeled as high-risk, it essentially indicates that you or your baby might have a greater chance of encountering specific health issues before, during, or after delivery. It doesn’t necessarily indicate that something will malfunction—it simply means you may require some additional attention and oversight throughout the process.
What Causes a Pregnancy to be Considered High-Risk?
Certain pregnancies are considered high-risk from the outset because of pre-existing health issues. Some individuals are classified as high-risk because of complications that arise during the process. Here are some typical risk factors:
Age: Women past 35 years old have a somewhat increased likelihood of experiencing complications during pregnancy.
Lifestyle Habits: Cigarette use, alcohol consumption, or drug usage can elevate the risk.
Existing Health Issues: Conditions such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes, thyroid illnesses, epilepsy, cardiac issues, or infections can contribute significantly.
Pregnancy Complications: Issues such as unusual placenta positioning, restricted fetal growth (baby developing smaller than anticipated), or Rh incompatibility (when your blood type differs from your baby’s) can cause worry.
Expecting multiples: Having twins or triplets typically requires additional monitoring.
History of Preeclampsia or Preterm Birth: If you’ve faced issues in a prior pregnancy, your physician will monitor you carefully during this pregnancy as well.
Managing a High-Risk Pregnancy
Facing a high-risk pregnancy doesn’t necessarily indicate that your experience will be tougher than that of someone with a low-risk pregnancy; however, it might require more regular checkups and the assistance of a maternal-fetal medicine expert.
Crucially, having one high-risk pregnancy does not imply that all your future pregnancies will be like that. Each pregnancy varies. For example, you might experience a complication with one pregnancy and then have a straightforward, healthy pregnancy afterward.
If you have experienced a preterm birth previously, your doctor will probably implement measures to prevent it from occurring again. This may involve medication, increased ultrasound frequency, and tracking your cervical length to lower the chance of premature labor.
Dr. Samanta Dhulipala G is an exceptionally qualified expert in fetal medicine with a robust academic and professional history. We’re always looking for ways to simplify things so you can get better and remain better. Also, remember that fetal treatment is for you to experience a safe, joyful pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby. Book Your first appointment!