High-risk pregnancies and deliveries pose greater challenges and require special attention to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. Various factors can contribute to a pregnancy being classified as high-risk, including:
Maternal age: Women who are very young (under 17) or older (over 35) are at higher risk for complications.
Health conditions: Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, or infections can increase the risk.
Pregnancy-related conditions: Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta previa, or multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets) can complicate pregnancies.
Previous pregnancy complications: A history of miscarriages, preterm labor, or complications in previous pregnancies may increase the risk for subsequent pregnancies.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol or drug abuse, poor nutrition, and obesity can all increase the risk of complications.
Genetic factors: Certain genetic conditions can increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins or pollutants can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.
In high-risk pregnancies, medical care is usually more intensive and may involve regular monitoring, specialized testing, and interventions to manage or prevent complications. This could include more frequent prenatal visits, ultrasounds, blood tests, and consultations with specialists such as maternal-fetal medicine doctors or perinatologists.
During delivery, close monitoring of both the mother and baby is essential. Depending on the specific circumstances, the delivery may take place in a hospital equipped with a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to provide immediate care for the baby if needed.
It's important for pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies to closely follow their healthcare provider's recommendations, attend all prenatal appointments, and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms promptly. Early detection and management of potential complications can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
© 2024 DR. MANISHA ARORA | All Rights Reserved.