A high-risk pregnancy poses potential health risks to the mother, the baby, or both. These pregnancies require specialized care and monitoring to ensure the best possible outcomes.
But what is a high-risk pregnancy? The truth is that various types of pregnancies fall into this category, and the term is used to describe multiple medical circumstances that can put a mother or child at risk of serious complications and even death.
The better question is, what are the contributing factors, risks, and proper care strategies associated with a high-risk pregnancy?
Factors That Contribute to a High-Risk Pregnancy
Several factors can increase the likelihood of a pregnancy being classified as high-risk. These factors can be related to the mother’s health, lifestyle, or medical history.
While this list is not all-inclusive because every pregnancy is different, your medical provider will perform routine medical tests during pregnancy to determine if you are high risk, even if the risk factors listed below are not present. My goal is to provide expecting moms with the most common risk factors.
Maternal Age
Women under 17 or over 35 are at a higher risk of pregnancy complications.
Advanced maternal age, in particular, is associated with an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia. Y
According to Women’s Health Services, younger mothers may face risks related to underdeveloped reproductive systems.
Pre-Existing Health Conditions
Chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, or thyroid disorders can complicate pregnancy and require careful management. For example, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to birth defects or macrosomia (a large baby), while hypertension increases the risk of placental abruption.
Multiple Pregnancies
Carrying twins, triplets, or more increases the risk of complications such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes.
Multiple pregnancies often require more frequent monitoring and may involve bed rest or early delivery to manage risks.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of complications, including low birth weight, developmental issues, and neonatal abstinence syndrome. Quitting these habits early in pregnancy can improve outcomes.
History of Pregnancy Complications
Women who have experienced complications in previous pregnancies, such as preterm birth or preeclampsia, are more likely to face similar issues in future pregnancies. A detailed medical history helps healthcare providers tailor care to reduce these risks.
Infections During Pregnancy
Certain infections, such as Zika virus, cytomegalovirus, or sexually transmitted diseases, can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. For example, untreated syphilis can lead to stillbirth or congenital disabilities. Early detection and treatment are critical.
The diseases listed above can cause the serious completely listed below:
- Zika virus: Can cause microcephaly and other birth defects.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV): This may lead to hearing loss or developmental delays in the baby.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Untreated STIs like syphilis can cause stillbirth or congenital disabilities.
Risks Associated With High-Risk Pregnancies
High-risk pregnancies can lead to complications that affect both the mother and the baby. Below are some of the most common risks that expecting moms face.
Preterm Birth
Preterm birth, or delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is a significant risk in high-risk pregnancies. Babies born prematurely may face developmental challenges, respiratory issues, and other health concerns.
Preterm birth is often linked to conditions like multiple pregnancies or infections during pregnancy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, preterm labor can sometimes be delayed with medical interventions, but early delivery may still be necessary in severe cases.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, often the liver and kidneys. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as eclampsia (seizures) or HELLP syndrome, a life-threatening liver and blood clotting disorder. Women with a history of chronic hypertension or preeclampsia in previous pregnancies are at higher risk. Regular monitoring and medications can help manage this condition.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs when high blood sugar levels develop during pregnancy. This condition can increase the risk of preterm birth, high birth weight, and future type 2 diabetes for both the mother and the child. According to Weill Cornell Medicine, managing gestational diabetes often involves dietary changes, blood sugar monitoring, and sometimes insulin therapy.
We’ve written a guide for gestational diabetes that outlines what it is, how it can affect mom and baby, and how to manage it.
Placental Complications
Conditions like placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (where the placenta separates from the uterine wall) can cause severe bleeding and endanger both the mother and the baby. These complications often require close monitoring and may necessitate a cesarean delivery to ensure safety.
Miscarriage or Stillbirth
High-risk pregnancies have a higher likelihood of miscarriage or stillbirth, mainly if underlying health conditions or complications are not managed properly. Factors such as advanced maternal age or chronic illnesses can increase this risk. Early and consistent prenatal care is crucial to reduce these risks.
How to Care for Yourself During a High-Risk Pregnancy
Proper care and management are crucial for ensuring a healthy pregnancy, even when risks are present. Here are some strategies to help you navigate a high-risk pregnancy. Just keep in mind that you should always consult your healthcare provider and not attempt to manage your pregnancy on your own.
Regular Prenatal Care
Frequent check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential. These visits allow for close monitoring of your health and the baby’s development, enabling early detection and management of potential complications.
According to Weill Cornell Medicine, specialized care plans may include additional ultrasounds or blood tests.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active (as recommended by your doctor), and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol can significantly reduce risks.
A diet rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium supports fetal development and maternal health.
Managing Chronic Conditions
If you have pre-existing health conditions, work closely with your healthcare team to manage them effectively. This may include adjusting medications or following a specialized treatment plan. For example, women with diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar levels more frequently during pregnancy.
Monitoring for Warning Signs
Be vigilant about symptoms such as severe headaches, vision changes, abdominal pain, or unusual swelling, as these could indicate complications like preeclampsia. Early reporting of these symptoms can prevent severe outcomes.
If you learn that you have developed gestational diabetes, constant monitoring and regular doctor visits are crucial.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
A high-risk pregnancy can be emotionally taxing. Seek support from loved ones, join support groups, or consider counseling to help manage stress and anxiety. Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being during pregnancy.
If you’re having mental health issues during your pregnancy, you can talk to your doctor and reach out to a free resource such as The Blue Dot Project. The Blue Dot Project focuses on maternal mental health and offers free peer support groups, educational materials, and a community for pregnant and postpartum women. There are many free support groups, both online and in-person, and your healthcare provider can help direct you to the resources best suited to help with your own personal circumstances.
Specialized Care
In some cases, you may need to consult with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist who has expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies. These specialists can provide advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options tailored to your needs.
A high-risk pregnancy requires careful planning, monitoring, and support to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby. You can confidently navigate this challenging journey by understanding the risks, recognizing contributing factors, and following proper care guidelines.
As always, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your situation.