Expecting a baby is a happy news for any family. Usually, for most mothers, this period passes very naturally and happily. When the due date is complete, a healthy, cute baby is born into this world. In a day or two, you come home from the hospital and start life with a new member of the family. But not every pregnancy goes smoothly like this. Some mothers have to face a situation that doctors call a "high-risk pregnancy ."
Simply put, what is a high-risk pregnancy?
Don't be afraid when you hear this name. "High-risk" doesn't mean that something bad will happen . The simple meaning is that there is a high chance of complications during pregnancy that could affect the mother, the baby, or both. Think of it like a student who needs special attention. A mother with this type of pregnancy is kept under the supervision of a specialist doctor. This is done to ensure the maximum health safety of the mother and the baby and to achieve the best outcome.
The important thing is that, with proper medical supervision and management, most mothers with high-risk pregnancies can give birth to healthy babies.
What are the factors that can make a pregnancy risky?
There are several reasons why a pregnancy can be classified as risky . Let's look at them one by one.
| Reason type | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Mother's age | If the mother is under 17 or over 35 when she gives birth, the chances of complications are higher. The risk of miscarriage and genetic defects increases, especially after the age of 40. |
| Pre-existing medical conditions before pregnancy | If you have had these conditions before you became pregnant, that is also a risk factor. For example:
|
| Diseases that occur during pregnancy | Even if you are healthy when you get pregnant, you may develop new health conditions during pregnancy. Three of the main ones are: 1. Preeclampsia: This is a combination of symptoms that occur during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, protein in the urine , and swelling of the body. If not treated properly, it can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. 2. Gestational Diabetes: A condition of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy. If you follow the treatment plan given by your doctor carefully, there is no obstacle to having a healthy baby. 3. Depression: Depression can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, fatigue, and stress. It is essential to seek medical advice as this can also affect the baby's development. |
| Other problems related to pregnancy | Sometimes, even though the mother's health is good, there are problems caused by the pregnancy itself.
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If you have any of these conditions, it's important to talk to your doctor before you decide to get pregnant . He or she can run tests, adjust your medications, and give you advice to protect your health and that of your baby.
How to check the baby's well-being during a high-risk pregnancy?
If your pregnancy is considered high risk, your doctor will regularly check the baby's health. The main test used for this is the Biophysical Profile (BPP) .
Simply put, the BPP is a report card that gives a score on the baby's health. It mainly uses a test called the Nonstress Test (NST) and an ultrasound scan. It is usually done after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
- Nonstress Test (NST): In this, a monitor is attached to the mother's abdomen and the baby's heart rate is monitored as the baby moves. This can give an idea of whether the baby is getting enough oxygen.
- Ultrasound Scan: The scan performed during the BPP test focuses on 4 main points.
| What the BPP test looks for | How to score |
|---|---|
| Fetal Tone | Each of these sections and the NST test are scored as 0, 1, or 2. The total score is 10. Generally, if the score is 8 or 10 , the baby is considered to be in good health. If the score is less than 8, the doctor may decide to do more tests or deliver the baby. |
| Fetal Breathing | |
| Fetal Movements | |
| Amniotic Fluid Volume | |
| Nonstress Test (NST) Result |
Your doctor will determine which test is most appropriate for you based on your condition.
What can be done to prevent and manage complications?
Even if you don't have any health problems, it's a good idea to visit your doctor before you get pregnant (preconception appointment) so you can learn about steps you can take to reduce your risk of certain problems.
Things you can do:
- Folic Acid: Take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily even before getting pregnant.
- Get recommended vaccinations: Get all the vaccinations your doctor recommends.
- Healthy diet and weight control: Eat nutritious foods. Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Regular exercise: Unless your doctor says no, engage in light exercise that is appropriate for you.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs: These are very harmful to the baby.
- Follow medical advice: Take only the medications your doctor has approved. Go to the clinic on time.
- See a specialist: If your pregnancy is high-risk, your doctor may refer you to a perinatologist or maternal-fetal medicine specialist . He or she will work with your other doctors to provide the best outcome for you and your baby.
Take-Home Message
- "High-Risk Pregnancy" doesn't mean that something bad will definitely happen. It just means that you and your baby need special care and attention .
- If you have any health problems, talk to your doctor before planning to become pregnant.
- Follow your doctor's instructions, prescriptions, and meal plans exactly. Don't miss any clinic dates.
- Don't be afraid. Ask your doctor any questions or concerns you may have. Maintaining good communication is very important.
- With proper medical management, you too can bring a healthy, beautiful baby into this world.
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