High-risk pregnancies sound daunting. It is common in women with a medical history, a chronic illness, substance addiction, and other mental or physical health conditions that put the mother at a higher risk of miscarriage or pre-term labor. So, what exactly is a high-risk pregnancy? Does it mean you are supposed to seek help from the best obstetrician-Gynecologist in Thane West? Does it mean your child is at risk of abnormalities after birth?
Causes of High-risk Pregnancy
Pregnancy is the most beautiful yet unpredictable phase in a woman’s life. But, things get pretty complicated for those diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy. To protect yourself and the child, you need to be extra careful with your medication, diet, health, and lifestyle. But, what exactly causes high-risk pregnancy, and who is at a higher risk?
â—� Women above 35 years
â—� Alcohol or drug addiction, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle
â—� Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, irregular thyroid levels, kidney diseases, heart diseases, asthma, or an existing infection
â—� Complications during pregnancy, such as abnormal placenta position
â—� Women carrying twins
â—� Prior pregnancy complications, such as a history of miscarriage or premature birth
Some women might have a healthy pregnancy in the first trimester but may experience complications later. So, it is important to stay in touch with the gynecologist to monitor your blood sugar level, blood pressure, and thyroid levels. In addition, regular health checkups every few weeks are highly recommended for pregnant women.
How Can You manage High-risk Pregnancy?
High-risk pregnancy doesn’t mean you cannot have a healthy pregnancy or a healthy child. It, generally, implies you need special care and regular health monitoring. Here are a few things to consider to manage high-risk pregnancies.
Plan Your Pregnancy: A planned pregnancy can save you and your child from many pregnancy complications. It isn’t only for women exposed to high-risk pregnancy, but every couple trying to conceive should visit the maternity care in Thane to discuss their health with the gynecologist before getting pregnant. The doctor will recommend health supplements, especially folic acid, so you can gain weight before you get pregnant.
Get Regular Prenatal Care: Prenatal care is important for pregnant women, in general. But, it is a necessity for women with a high-risk pregnancy. Your gynecologist may refer you to a specialist to monitor your and the fetus’s health.
Avoid any Harmful Substance: Alcohol, drugs, and smoking increase your risk of miscarriage and pose a health risk for your child. Your gynecologist will give you a list of the items you need to avoid during and after the pregnancy to keep your baby safe. These mainly include alcohol and drugs. You should also aim to follow a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious and balanced diet.
Are Special Tests Necessary?
The doctor recommends additional tests for women with a high-risk pregnancy. It includes:
â—� Targeted ultrasound
â—� Prenatal screening
â—� An ultrasound for cervical length
â—� Lab tests
â—� Invasive genetic screening
â—� Biophysical profile
Note that certain pregnancy tests, like amniocentesis, should be taken only if prescribed by a gynecologist.