Every pregnancy has some level of danger. A “high-risk” pregnancy is defined as one in which the pregnant woman, the foetus (unborn infant), or both are exposed to greater health hazards. High-risk pregnancies may need special attention before, during, and after delivery. This helps to minimise the risk of problems. Having a high-risk pregnancy, on the other hand, does not guarantee that you or your unborn child will have complications. Despite having particular health needs, many people have healthy pregnancies and regular labor and delivery.
Preexisting health issues, pregnancy-related health conditions, lifestyle variables (such as smoking, drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and exposure to specific chemicals), and age all contribute to a high-risk pregnancy (being over 35 or under 17 when pregnant).
What are common medical risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy?
Pregnant women who have a number of prior illnesses face greater health risks. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or multiple sclerosis (MS), COVID-19, Diabetes, Fibroids, High blood pressure, HIV/AIDS, Kidney disease, Low body weight (BMI less than 18.5), Mental health disorders, such as depression, Obesity, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Thyroid disease, and Blood clotting disorders are just a few of these conditions.
Birth defects or genetic disorders in the unborn infant are among the pregnancy-related health issues that might endanger the pregnant woman and her unborn child. Unhealthy growth in the foetus, Preeclampsia and eclampsia, as well as past premature labour or birth, or other difficulties with previous pregnancies.
What are the signs and symptoms of high-risk pregnancy?
Whether or whether your pregnancy is deemed high-risk, go to your doctor immediately away if you have any of the following symptoms: Pain in the abdomen that won’t go away, Dizziness or fainting, chest discomfort Extreme exhaustion, The movement of your unborn baby has slowed or stopped. A fever of more than 100.4°F, Palpitations in the heart, Nausea and vomiting that are more severe than regular morning sickness A severe headache that refuses to go away or worsens, Swelling, redness, or discomfort in your face or limbs are all signs of an infection. Suicidal thoughts towards yourself or your unborn child, Breathing difficulties and vaginal haemorrhage or discharge.
What are the potential complications of high-risk pregnancy?
A high-risk pregnancy might put the pregnant woman’s or the unborn baby’s life in jeopardy. Preeclampsia (high blood pressure caused by pregnancy), Eclampsia (seizures caused by pregnancy), Preterm delivery, Cesarean delivery (C-section), Excessive bleeding during labour and delivery, or after birth, Low or high birth weight are all serious issues. Defects in the womb, If your child’s brain growth is causing you concern, Your baby’s admittance to a neonatal intensive care unit, your own admission to an intensive care unit, miscarriage, and stillbirth are all possibilities.
How is high-risk pregnancy managed?
The way you handle a high-risk pregnancy will be determined by your individual risk factors. Closer follow-up with your obstetrician may be part of your treatment strategy. Consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine expert (for high-risk pregnancies), Consultation with other medical specialties More ultrasounds and prenatal screening, home blood pressure monitoring, and careful monitoring of drugs used to treat pre-existing illnesses are all recommended.
If your health or the health of your baby is in danger, your healthcare provider may recommend labor induction or a C-section.
PREVENTION
How can I prevent a high-risk pregnancy?
Avoiding drugs and alcohol, as well as identifying potential health concerns before becoming pregnant, can help you avoid pregnancy difficulties. Tell your doctor about your medical history, both family and personal. Maintaining a healthy body weight before to pregnancy is important. Taking care of any pre-existing medical issues you may have Ensure that any long-term drugs you’re taking are safe to use while you’re pregnant. Smoking cessation, Between the ages of 18 and 34, plan pregnancies and practise safe sex.
Dr. Chetna Jain is the top gynaecologist in Gurgaon. She is extremely qualified (MS – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, MBBS, MRCOG) and happens to have 28 years of experience which is more than most gynaecologists available in India, let alone NCR region. She has treated countless patients and has an impeccable record of innumerable happy patients. She has treated both domestic and international patients suffering from fibroids, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, tubal block, and infertility. You’re in safe hands when you’re under the care of Dr. Chetna Jain. She promises to treat her patients through an amalgamation of skills, compassion and expertise making use of the most advanced technology at her clinic located at Sector 14, Gurgaon.
