What is High-risk Pregnancy? - IVF | ICU | ICSI | OI/TI

High-Risk Pregnancy

Egg freezing

What is a High-risk Pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy threatens the health of the pregnant woman, her fetus, or both. It often requires specialized care for better pregnancy outcomes.

Due to the existing factors, some women are already at increased risk for complications even before they become pregnant. Women who receive regular and early prenatal care can have a healthier pregnancy and delivery.

High-risk pregnancy factors include

1

Existing health conditions

Such as high blood pressure, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, e.g., HIV, VDRL, or Hepatitis B positive, or some autoimmune diseases, depression,
and pre-existing heart, kidney, or lung problems

2

Overweight and obesity

Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, stillbirth, neural tube defects, cesarean delivery, & post-delivery complications like delayed wound healing and thromboembolism

3

Multiple births

Complications are more likely to occur in women carrying two or more fetuses (twins and higher-order multiples). Common complications include pre-eclampsia, premature labor, premature rupture of membranes, and preterm birth

4

Young or advanced maternal age

Pregnancy in teens and women aged 35 or older increases the risk for chromosomal anomalies in the fetus, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, & gestational diabetes mellitus

5

Placental abnormalities

Some abnormalities, like Placenta Previa where the placenta is low lying or covering the internal organs completely, pose a risk for cesarean delivery and postpartum hemorrhage, needing a blood transfusion or even a hysterectomy

6

A previous history of miscarriages

Problems with a previous pregnancy and a family history of genetic disorders are also risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy

Preventing and Treating Pregnancy Complications

Pre-conceptional counseling with your doctor helps you know your health better before conceiving.

  • Getting at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, starting 3 months before and continuing through pregnancy
  • Getting recommended immunizations before conception
  • Eating a healthy and balanced diet and maintaining optimal weight
  • Doing regular physical activities
  • Avoiding smoking, alcohol and drug abuse
  • Managing pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, or infections

Seeing a doctor who has expertise in treating high-risk cases ensures better pregnancy outcomes for you and your baby.