What is a high-risk pregnancy?
A high-risk pregnancy is one that involves an increased risk of health problems to the mother or baby before, during, or after delivery. Some pregnancies develop risk factors as they progress, while some women are already at a higher risk of complications before they get pregnant.
The expert team at Advanced Women’s Healthcare helps you identify risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy, including:
- Young or old maternal age, including teenagers and women age 35 and older
- Multiple births, including twins and other multiples
- A history of pregnancy problems
- Being overweight or underweight
- Pre-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure
If you’re trying to become pregnant, schedule a preconception counseling appointment at Advanced Women’s Healthcare. Your caring provider evaluates your health and lifestyle choices, then counsels you on how to best prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
What conditions can cause a high-risk pregnancy?
Many health conditions can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, including:
Preeclampsia and eclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition that causes high blood pressure and can damage the mother’s kidneys, liver, and brain. Fortunately, preeclampsia is treatable, and many women have healthy babies. Eclampsia is a more severe form of this condition that can cause the mother to experience seizures and coma.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that only affects pregnant women. If you already have diabetes or develop gestational diabetes, the team at Advanced Women’s Healthcare develop a personalized treatment plan to help you stay healthy.
Preterm labor
Labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered preterm. More than half of twins and about 93% of triplets are born preterm. These babies may require special care to survive outside the womb.
Other medical conditions
Pre-existing conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and high blood pressure can pose risks to you and your baby during pregnancy. The team at Advanced Women’s Healthcare helps you prevent problems by carefully monitoring your condition and providing early treatment.
How can my baby and I stay healthy throughout pregnancy?
The best way to promote a healthy pregnancy is to see your provider at Advanced Women’s Healthcare. The friendly and knowledgeable team provides preconception counseling and routine prenatal care to protect you and your baby.
You can also take the following steps.
- Take a prenatal vitamin with folic acid
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Receive necessary immunizations
- Avoid smoking and alcohol use
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly
You should also schedule your first prenatal care appointment as soon as you learn you’re pregnant. Call Advanced Women’s Healthcare or book an appointment online today for high-risk pregnancy care.
