What Is High-Risk Pregnancy? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

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A high-risk pregnancy is one where the health or life of the mother or her fetus is affected due to complications. In such cases, specialised care from specially trained experts is required. Sometimes pregnancies become high risk as they progress, while some women are subject to risks for complications even before they get pregnant for various reasons.

A few factors that may lead to a high-risk pregnancy include:

• Age. Women who get pregnant at an older age, i.e, more than 35.

• Lifestyle habits. Some lifestyle choices such as smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol and drug abuse can put a pregnancy at risk.

• Health issues. High blood pressure, thyroid disease, heart or blood disorders, and infections can increase pregnancy risks.

• Weight issues. In case of obesity, there is an increase in the risk of having high blood pressure, gestational diabetes etc

• Multiple pregnancy. The pregnancy risks are higher for women carrying twins or higher order multiples.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to have a smooth pregnancy or want to prevent high-risk pregnancy

• Go for a preconception appointment -

If you're thinking about having a baby, consult your doctor. Your doctor will the best person to advise you to start taking a daily prenatal vitamin and recommend you to reach a healthy weight before you become pregnant. If you have a health ailment, your treatment might be aligned in preparation for pregnancy. Your doctor may also explain pregnancy risks, if any.

• Take good prenatal care -

Prenatal visits can help your doctor monitor your health and your baby's health. You might have to consult a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine, genetics, pediatrics or other areas.

• Avoid unhealthy habits -

During pregnancy smoking tobacco, consumption of alcohol and other harmful substance should be quit completely. Consult your doctor about any medications or supplements that you're taking.

Every pregnancy is different, however, women need to take some precautions which may help reduce the risk of complications. Visit your doctor regularly and follow all the medical advice given. Trust what the doctor says and do not try to self-medicate or follow unauthorised tips.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.