Is your pregnancy high-risk? (High-Risk Pregnancy) Let's talk about this

Expecting a baby is a beautiful thing. Most of the time, it's a very natural process. A mother completes her due date and gives birth to a healthy baby . Within a day or two, she goes home from the hospital and starts life with a new family member. However, not every pregnancy is this smooth and problem-free. Some mothers have to face what doctors call a "high-risk pregnancy."

Simply put, a high-risk pregnancy is a pregnancy that is at risk of complications that could affect the mother, the baby, or both. In such cases, specialist medical supervision is essential to ensure the optimal health of both the mother and the baby.

What are the factors that make a pregnancy 'at risk'?

There are several reasons why a pregnancy can be classified as risky. Let's look at each one in turn.

Mother's age

This is the most common and most common risk factor. If the mother is under 17 or over 35 at the time of conception, the risk of complications is higher than for mothers of the normal age group. The risk of miscarriage and genetic defects in the baby increases, especially after the age of 40.

Pre-existing medical conditions before pregnancy

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it can also affect your pregnancy. In such cases, it is important to talk to your doctor before you even think about having a baby. Your doctor can then run the necessary tests, adjust your medications, and advise you on what you should do to protect your and your baby's health.

In addition, previous miscarriages, problems during previous pregnancies, or a family history of genetic diseases are also considered risk factors .

Diseases that occur during pregnancy

Sometimes, even if you are completely healthy when you get pregnant, you may develop new medical conditions during pregnancy. Here are three of the most common ones.

• Preeclampsia: This is a condition characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling. If not managed properly, it can be life-threatening for both mother and baby. However , with proper medical care, most mothers give birth to healthy babies . This condition is more likely to develop if you are older, overweight, or have high blood pressure or diabetes before pregnancy.
• Gestational Diabetes : This is a type of diabetes that only occurs during pregnancy. If you follow the treatment plan given by your doctor exactly, you can have a healthy baby without any problems. This type of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born. However, mothers who have this condition are at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later in life.
• Depression: Hormonal changes, fatigue, and household problems during pregnancy can cause depression and sadness. This condition affects between 14% and 23% of pregnant women. This can lead to problems during childbirth and low birth weight. So if you are feeling this way, don't be shy about talking to your doctor about it.

Other problems related to pregnancy

Sometimes, it can be risky due to problems arising from the pregnancy itself, even without any problems with the mother's health.

• Premature labor : Labor begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preemies are more likely to have health problems.
• Multiple births: Carrying more than one baby (twins, triplets). This increases the risk of preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.
• Placenta Previa: This is when the placenta covers the cervix. This can cause bleeding. If this condition persists even near the time of delivery, your doctor may recommend a cesarean section.
• Fetal problems: Ultrasound scans can sometimes show problems with the baby's development. About 2% - 3% of all babies have minor or major growth problems.

How to check the baby's well-being in a high-risk pregnancy?

For mothers with high-risk pregnancies, your doctor may recommend a special test to check the health of your unborn baby. It's called a Biophysical Profile (BPP) . This is usually done after 28 weeks of pregnancy.

The NST test involves attaching a monitor to the mother's abdomen and looking at how the baby's heart rate changes in response to the baby's movements. The BPP test provides even more in-depth information.

What can be done to prevent and manage complications?

Even if you don't have any health problems right now, it's important to have a preconception appointment with your doctor before you think about having a baby. This way, you can minimize any risks that may exist.

These things will help you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy:

• Take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before and throughout pregnancy.
• Get all recommended vaccinations.
• Eat a healthy diet and maintain a proper body weight.
• Until your doctor says no, engage in light exercise that is appropriate for you.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs completely.
• Only use medications approved by your doctor.
• Attend clinics on the scheduled dates. Don't miss any days.
• Work with your doctor to control conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

If your pregnancy is considered high-risk, your doctor may refer you to a perinatologist , an obstetrician and gynecologist who has special training in high-risk pregnancies. This specialist will work with your other doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

High-Risk Pregnancy, Pregnancy Complications, Preeclampsia, Gestational Diabetes, Pregnancy Health, Perinatologist