Frank Cline 
Pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting time, but it can also be filled with uncertainty. You might be wondering if you’re at an increased risk of having a high-risk pregnancy, or just what the definition of high risk is in the first place. Your pregnancy doctor will always have your best interests in mind when informing you about your risks, but here are some general guidelines to help you understand the likelihood of having a high-risk pregnancy.
What is a high-risk pregnancy?
A high-risk pregnancy is one in which you have a greater risk of having a baby with a birth defect or delivering preterm. High-risk pregnancies are also associated with complications like miscarriage and placental abruption.
High-risk pregnancies can be broken down into three categories: high-risk first trimester, high-risk second trimester, and high-risk third trimester.
What are the risks of having a high-risk pregnancy?
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of having a high-risk pregnancy include:
- Having a family history of birth defects or genetic disorders
- Previous stillbirth, premature labor, or miscarriage
- History of complications during prior pregnancies, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placental abruption or placenta previa
- Age over 35 years old
How can you stay healthy during your pregnancy?
There are many ways to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy. One way is to stay hydrated. A high-risk pregnancy doctor in Newton recommends drinking three or four cups of water every day, or an additional eight ounces for pregnant women over the age of forty-five. Water will help keep your body functioning properly, which will make your pregnancy smoother and easier for you and your baby.
Eating well is another important part of staying healthy during your pregnancy, so make sure you’re eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits. And it goes without saying that exercise is also essential for both you and your baby’s health. It might seem like a major undertaking before you start trying to get pregnant, but many women find that they can continue their regular workout routine during this time by doing things like walking during the day or joining a prenatal class on a non-working day.
When should you call your doctor?
If you or your partner have a history of multiple high-risk pregnancies or complicated pregnancies, talk to your doctor about any potential risks early. For example, if one of you has diabetes and the other has had a prior miscarriage. If you’re at increased risk for placenta previa, preeclampsia, or gestational hypertension, it’s important to be mindful of these signs so that you can get seen as soon as possible if they arise.
Some of the more common high-risk pregnancy conditions include:
- Placenta previa
- Preterm labor
- Gestational diabetes
- Gestational hypertension
- Abnormal growth of the baby in the uterus (polyhydramnios)
- Antepartum hemorrhage (bleeding during pregnancy).
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