Being pregnant is a wonderful and exciting time in a woman’s life, but when your pregnancy is deemed high-risk, it can be a very daunting and frightening experience. A high-risk pregnancy is one in which there are potential complications that could harm both the mother’s and the baby’s health. Women who are under 17 and over 35 years of age, those with pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes, those who are pregnant with twins, triplets, etc., and ladies who have a history of previous pregnancy complications are more prone to having high-risk pregnancies. A high-risk pregnancy is not guaranteed to be more challenging or difficult than a low-risk pregnancy. However, it sometimes implies that you will need to consult a maternal-fetal specialist and undergo more monitoring than someone with a low-risk pregnancy.

If you notice any symptoms of high-risk pregnancy, such as bleeding, severe cramps, or high blood pressure, do not hesitate to reach out to University Park OBGYN and schedule a meeting with our highly-skilled obstetrician in Sarasota, FL. We take pride in our professional and compassionate staff, who can help you navigate your high-risk gestation and ensure that you and your baby receive the best care possible. 

This blog post will cover what to expect during a high-risk pregnancy, including the most common pregnancy complications. We’ll also provide advice on caring for yourself and your growing baby. So, let’s get started!

Identifying High-Risk Pregnancy

If a high-risk pregnancy is suspected or diagnosed, the mother may be referred to a maternal-fetal specialist. These healthcare professionals are experts in managing complicated pregnancies and can provide additional care and support to ensure the best possible results for both the mother and the fetus. They can even work with your primary doctor to closely monitor the growth of the baby and make any necessary changes to the prenatal care plan. That way, you can have multiple support systems and be more at peace with your baby’s health. 

Recognizing a high-risk pregnancy is essential for early intervention and management. Some causes, such as pre-existing medical conditions or a history of preterm labor, may require specialized care and monitoring throughout gestation to minimize potential risks. If you suspect that you are pregnant and at high risk of potential complications, you should contact your gynecologist as soon as possible. Regular prenatal visits and tests are essential for detecting problems early on, and working with a maternal-fetal specialist can give you the reassurance you need.

Risk Factors

Doctor and Female Patient Sitting at the Desk and Talking in Clinic Near Window

Everyone has a unique body and symptoms during pregnancy. Not every expecting mother will be sensitive to the same risk factors. Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of a high-risk pregnancy. These include:

  • Higher maternal age – Women above the age of 35 are at a higher risk of problems such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and chromosomal abnormalities.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions – Patients with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, may be at a higher risk of pregnancy difficulties.
  • Prior pregnancy complications – If you have experienced previous pregnancy issues like preterm labor, you may be at a higher risk of having similar complications in the following pregnancies.
  • Lifestyle factors – Smoking, drinking, and drug use during gestation can raise the chance of preterm labor, low birth weight, and fetal abnormalities.
  • Multiples – Women who are carrying twins, triplets, or more may be at higher risk of difficulties such as premature labor and low birth weight.
  • Infections – Sexually transmitted illnesses and urinary tract infections, for example, can increase the risk of giving birth prematurely. 

The list below covers the most prevalent conditions that might lead to a high-risk pregnancy:

  • Diabetes – If you have had diabetes prior to becoming pregnant, you will most likely be assigned to a maternal-fetal medicine expert who will monitor your health and provide the appropriate treatment. Diabetes during pregnancy is quite common, and your gynecologist will most likely be able to care for you without the help of a maternal-fetal expert. It is a good practice to schedule counseling before conception. 
  • Preeclampsia – This is s a pregnancy-specific illness that is characterized by heightened blood pressure, increased levels of protein in the urine, and edema. Some women with preeclampsia have problems with their livers. Depending on the severity of your ailment or if you are premature, you may be sent to a maternal-fetal specialist. 
  • Hypertension – You will especially need to schedule an appointment with a maternal-fetal specialist if you suffer from high blood pressure. They will keep an eye on your baby’s growth process and tell you if problems occur. Certain drugs that are used to treat hypertension are not allowed to be used in pregnancy, so you will probably need to make a few adjustments.
  • Multiple gestations – Being pregnant with twins or more babies is always riskier than carrying just one. Preeclampsia and premature labor are more common in mothers who have numerous pregnancies.  

Complications

Female Doctor Therapist Wearing White Uniform Consulting Young Woman Patient at Appointment

If your doctor has told you that you are at higher risk for complications, it is understandable to be anxious. Problems are common in high-risk pregnancies, and women should be informed of these possible dangers. Preterm labor and premature delivery, preeclampsia, prenatal hypertension, gestational diabetes, placental abruption, issues with fetal development, miscarriage, and stillbirth are some of the most frequent problems that can occur. However, all of these can be treated and managed, especially if you detect the symptoms of high-risk pregnancy early on and take the necessary steps.

Preterm labor and premature delivery happen when a baby is delivered before the 37th week of gestation. This increases the risk of breathing problems, feeding challenges, and other health problems. Preeclampsia and gestational hypertension are disorders marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine that can result in problems such as placental abruption and organ damage.

Another common problem is gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that shows up during pregnancy and can result in issues such as macrosomia (a huge baby), premature birth, and stillbirth. Placenta previa and placental abruption are disorders in which the placenta is positioned incorrectly or separates from the uterine wall, resulting in bleeding and other problems. Fetal growth problems occur when the baby does not develop at the expected rate, increasing the chance of stillbirth.

Women with high-risk pregnancies should be aware of these potential consequences and seek medical attention as soon as they notice any symptoms. 

When Should I Contact My Doctor?

There are many causes of high-risk pregnancy, including maternal age, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or substance abuse. You should speak with your doctor immediately if you notice any high-risk pregnancy symptoms and think that some of these causes are contributing to the issue. Typical signs like vaginal bleeding, excruciating stomach discomfort, elevated blood pressure, or reduced fetal activity are all concerning and need to be evaluated by a maternal-fetal specialist. With early detection and treatment, serious issues can be avoided, and the outcome for you and your child improved.