High-Risk Pregnancies

Pregnancy is a special time for many women, though it’s not without its share of worry. For women with a high-risk pregnancy, there can be added stress and fear. Creating a strong partnership with an experienced OB/GYN can help make the journey easier and ensure you deliver a healthy baby.

What Makes a Pregnancy High Risk?

Many different health factors can cause your pregnancy to be considered high risk, including:

• Preexisting health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, certain heart conditions, asthma, or obesity
• A baby that measures small for gestational age
• Decreased fetal activity
• Being diagnosed with gestational diabetes or preeclampsia in pregnancy
• Certain lifestyle risk factors like smoking, using alcohol or drugs during pregnancy
• Advanced maternal age
• Being pregnant with multiples, such as twins, triplets, or quadruplets
• Placental problems like placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus)
• A history of previous pregnancy complications that may increase the risk of future pregnancy complications

What Kind of Care Do You Receive During a High-Risk Pregnancy?

Doctors experienced with managing high-risk pregnancies are there to help you have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. Your OB/GYN is there to:

• Diagnose and treat prenatal conditions to prevent further complications
• Reduce the risk of preterm labor or premature birth
• Monitor your baby for proper growth and development
• Provide care for your newborn immediately after birth
• Provide you with the support you need during a high-risk pregnancy, both physically and emotionally

Prenatal Screenings and Diagnosis for High-Risk Pregnancies

It is essential to stay informed about your and your baby’s health during pregnancy. Your high-risk pregnancy doctor may recommend advanced prenatal testing, such as:

• Fetal ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth
• Amniocentesis to collect a sample of amniotic fluid to help diagnose chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome.
• Blood tests to detect genetic disorders or neural tube defects.
• Chorionic villus sampling, or CVS, tests cells from the placenta to help diagnose chromosomal abnormalities or other genetic disorders.
• Non-stress testing to monitor fetal heart rate and movement.
• Fetal echocardiograms are used to look for cardiac abnormalities in your baby.

Partner with a High-Risk Pregnancy Doctor Today

Being diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy can lead to many unknowns, but our providers are highly trained to help you have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.

Whether you are already pregnant or are thinking of having a baby in the future, it’s time to partner with an experienced OB/GYN – schedule an appointment today!