Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but sometimes extra care is needed to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.

This is what’s known as a high-risk pregnancy. But don’t panic—being labeled “high-risk” doesn’t mean complications are certain. 

It simply means your doctor will monitor you more closely to help prevent potential issues.

You might have questions about what causes a pregnancy to be high-risk, how to recognize warning signs, and what can be done to stay healthy. We’re here to make it all clear and simple for you.

A high-risk pregnancy means that you or your baby are at an increased chance of health complications during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.

It doesn’t mean that something will go wrong—it just means doctors need to be extra careful when managing your care.

Common Misconception:

A high-risk pregnancy isn’t always life-threatening, but it does require closer medical attention to improve the chances of a healthy outcome for both mom and baby.

Certain factors can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. These can include your age, health conditions, lifestyle, or even environmental factors. Here’s a breakdown:

 Maternal Age & Its Impact

• Under 17 or Over 35: Pregnancy at these ages can come with higher risks of miscarriage, premature birth, or conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
• Age can affect egg quality, making chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome more likely.

What You Can Do:

Regular prenatal checkups and screenings for genetic conditions can help monitor and reduce risks.

 Pre-Existing Medical Conditions That Increase Risk

Health conditions like these may require specialized care during pregnancy:

• Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or Gestational): Imbalanced blood sugar levels can affect both mom and baby’s health.
• High Blood Pressure or Preeclampsia: These can increase the chance of preterm delivery or harm the placenta.
• Autoimmune Diseases (e.g., Lupus): Certain autoimmune disorders can increase miscarriage rates.
• Obesity or Being Underweight: Both extremes can lead to gestational diabetes, preterm birth, or difficulty during delivery.

What You Can Do:

Stick to a management plan for chronic conditions, and don’t skip medical advice or necessary medications.

 Lifestyle Factors

• Smoking, Alcohol, and Drug Use: These habits harm the baby’s development and can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, or lifelong complications.
• Physical Activity/Stress Levels: Overdoing exercise or experiencing extreme stress can affect pregnancy outcomes.

What You Can Do:

Quit smoking, avoid alcohol, and practice techniques like meditation or light exercise to manage stress.

Multiple Pregnancies (Twins, Triplets, or More)

The more babies you’re carrying, the more challenging the pregnancy becomes. Risks include:

• Higher chance of preterm birth and the need for NICU care.
• Increased strain on the mother’s body.

What You Can Do:

Consult an obstetrician who specializes in multiple pregnancies for personalized care.

 Genetic & Family History Risks

• If there’s a family history of genetic disorders, your pregnancy may require genetic testing or counseling.

What You Can Do:

Consider non-invasive tests or genetic counseling to understand risks early.

Environmental & Workplace Risks

• Jobs that expose you to chemicals, radiation, or pollutants can increase pregnancy complications.
• Physically demanding jobs may also lead to premature labor.

What You Can Do:

Talk to your employer about accommodations and minimize exposure to harmful substances.

 Mental Health & Pregnancy Risks

Mental health deserves just as much attention as physical health. Anxiety or depression during pregnancy can:

• Affect fetal development.
• Increase the risk of postpartum depression.

What You Can Do:

Speak openly to your doctor about any mood changes. Therapy or safe medications can provide relief.

 Nutrition & High-Risk Pregnancy

A poorly balanced diet can lead to:

• Nutrient Deficiencies like low iron (causing anemia), too little Vitamin D, or insufficient folic acid.
• Higher risks of birth defects or complications.

What You Can Do:

Focus on a prenatal diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and fortified grains. Take recommended prenatal vitamins.

 Infections & Their Impact on Pregnancy

Certain infections can seriously affect pregnancy, such as:

• HIV, Zika virus, Rubella, COVID-19.
• These can harm fetal growth or lead to miscarriage.

What You Can Do:

Get appropriately vaccinated and stay updated on prenatal screenings to catch infections early.

Keep an eye out for warning signs like:

• Severe headaches or sudden swelling in your hands and face.
• Vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge.
• Extreme fatigue, blurred vision, or fewer fetal movements.

Don’t hesitate—if you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Extra Tests & Screenings

Your doctor may recommend extra tests like:

• Ultrasounds, non-stress tests, blood tests, or genetic screening to closely monitor progress.

Choosing the Right Doctor & Hospital

• Work with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist who is trained to handle complicated pregnancies.
• Choose a hospital equipped with a NICU, in case your baby arrives early.

Home Care & Lifestyle Adjustments

• Diet Matters: Eat a balanced diet and follow your doctor’s advice on supplements.
• Exercise Wisely: Low-impact activities like walking or swimming can keep you active without straining your body.
• Manage Stress: Consider yoga, journaling, or speaking with a therapist to ease any anxiety.

Treatment for Specific Conditions

• Gestational Diabetes: Managed through proper diet, exercise, or insulin if needed.
• Preeclampsia: Requires medication and close monitoring to prevent complications.
• Bed Rest: This is less common today but might still be recommended depending on your condition.

1.Can a high-risk pregnancy become normal?

Yes! With proper management, many high-risk pregnancies result in a healthy mom and baby.

2.What foods should I avoid?

Stay away from raw or undercooked seafood, unpasteurized dairy, and high-mercury fish like tuna.

3.Should I be on bed rest?

It depends on your condition. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

4.How often will I need checkups?

High-risk pregnancies often require more frequent visits—possibly every 1-2 weeks.

5.Can I have a natural birth?

It’s possible, depending on the risk factor. Discuss your options with your healthcare provider.

• Pay attention to your body and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.
• Make healthy lifestyle changes like eating well, staying active, and managing stress.
• Regular checkups, extra tests, and good medical care go a long way in ensuring both you and your baby stay safe.
  

If you’ve been diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy, remember that support is available. With early care and expert advice, you can maximize your chances of a smooth and healthy pregnancy.

👉 Need guidance for a high-risk pregnancy? Contact a  high risk pregnancy specialist today! Safeguard your health and your baby’s future.

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• About Author

  Dr. Supriya Puranik

  Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist

Dr. Supriya Puranik, a renowned gynaecologist and infertility expert, leads the IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivaji Nagar, Pune. She is committed to helping couples overcome infertility challenges.