High Risk Pregnancy

Overview

 

A high-risk pregnancy is one that threatens the health or life of the mother or her fetus. It often requires specialized care from specially trained providers. Some pregnancies become a high risk as they progress, while some women are at increased risk for complications even before they get pregnant for a variety of reasons. Early and regular prenatal care helps many women have healthy pregnancies and deliveries without complications.

What else you must know about high-risk pregnancy?

 

Consult Dr. Veena Choodamani about how to manage any medical conditions you might have during your pregnancy and how your health might affect labor and delivery. Ask your health care provider to discuss specific signs or symptoms to look out for, such as:

  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Persistent headaches
  • Pain or cramping in the lower abdomen
  • Watery vaginal discharge — in a gush or a trickle
  • Regular or frequent contractions — a tightening sensation in the abdomen
  • Decreased fetal activity
  • Pain or burning with urination
  • Changes in vision, including blurred vision

A high-risk pregnancy might have ups and downs. Do your best to stay positive as you take steps to promote a healthy pregnancy.

 

How is a High-risk pregnancy diagnosed?

 

A high-risk pregnancy can be detected at an early stage in the pregnancy with a complete medical history of the mother, a thorough medical examination supported by certain investigations. Continuous monitoring of physical health and personal habits helps the doctor in identifying any risks/problems that develop during pregnancy.
Once a diagnosis has been made, the woman with a high-risk pregnancy should receive specialized care from a team of health care providers adept in managing high-risk pregnancies throughout the pregnancy to ensure that she carries the fetus or fetuses to term.