High Risk Pregnancy

What might lead to a designation as a high-risk pregnancy?

Many different factors can lead your women’s health specialist to determine that you have a high-risk pregnancy. Some of these factors include:

• Maternal age over 35
• Multiples (twins, triplets, or more fetuses)
• History of miscarriage
• Pre-existing health issues like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease
• History of drug or alcohol abuse
• History of preeclampsia
• Rhesus (Rh) sensitization

Many women fall into one or more of these categories. Being designated as having a high-risk pregnancy should not cause you to feel overly stressed or concerned. Most women with high-risk pregnancies go on to deliver healthy babies.  

How are high-risk pregnancies managed?

If your practitioner determines your pregnancy falls into the high-risk category, the next step involves searching for methods to manage your condition. These steps vary depending on your unique health history. 

In some cases, managing high blood pressure is the primary approach. Other expectant mothers might need to focus on managing blood sugar as they move through pregnancy. 

Women with a history of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications may need to take it easy as they move into the later weeks of pregnancy. Bed rest is sometimes the best option in those essential final weeks.

You may need to come in more frequently for prenatal visits. Your South Valley Women’s Health Care Specialist helps you understand what to expect and which options are available to increase your chances of a healthy and happy pregnancy.  

When will I learn if I have a high-risk pregnancy?

This depends on the factors that apply to your unique pregnancy journey. If you’re over the age of 35 when you become pregnant, your obstetrician may explain the challenges you might face as you move through trimesters. Of course, many women encounter no problems at all, even if they’re 40 or older. 

In other cases, the conditions that cause a high-risk pregnancy aren’t made apparent until later in pregnancy. For example, certain pregnancy complications might not be detected until screening happens or when symptoms arise. 

No matter when you learn you have a high-risk pregnancy, rest assured the team at South Valley Women’s Health Care is here to help. Book a visit online or over the phone today to learn more.