High-Risk Pregnancy

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a delicate time for expectant mothers, as they have to be vigilant about their health at all times. Proper nutrition, adequate rest, and exercise are considered to be important factors that ensure a smooth pregnancy. But, in some cases, few expectant mothers are classified as high-risk. A high-risk pregnancy is one where there are complications in the pregnancy that may cause serious damage to the health of the baby, the mother, or both.

What causes a high-risk pregnancy?

There can be many reasons why a pregnancy is deemed high-risk. Here are some common reasons:

• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Being obese or underweight
• Age: Ideally, the maternal age should be between 18 and 34 years for a healthy pregnancy.
• Alcohol consumption and smoking
• Multiple pregnancies
• Infectious diseases

Symptoms of a High-Risk Pregnancy

Expectant mothers who are in good health can also develop complications due to several factors. Expectant mothers need to be vigilant during pregnancy so that they can get proper medical care to manage their pregnancy smoothly. Some symptoms that can indicate a high-risk pregnancy are

• Heart palpitations
• Consistent fever
• Severe nausea, vomiting, and headache
• Decreased foetal movement
• Vaginal bleeding or excessive discharge
• Extreme fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
• Lower abdominal pain
• Thoughts about self-harm or harming the foetus

Diagnosis and Testing of a High-Risk Pregnancy

Several lab tests and ultrasounds are prescribed by doctors to determine the right treatment path for high-risk pregnancy cases. Some commonly prescribed tests are

• Non-stress test: This non-invasive test is conducted to monitor the fetal heart rate and movements.
• Foetal echocardiography: This test helps doctors study the baby's heart closely and check for abnormalities.
• Amniocentesis: This test is typically done after the 15th week of pregnancy. In this test, the amniotic fluid is extracted to check for chromosomal and genetic abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: Fetal blood tests use blood samples from the umbilical cord or foetus to test for blood-related disorders.

Managing a High-Risk Pregnancy

Getting diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy is not necessarily bad news. Expectant mothers can manage their pregnancy and avoid further complications by following these tips.

• Low stress: It is important to reduce stress and avoid thinking too much about the diagnosis. Listening to calming music, practising meditation or yoga, or enjoying any relaxing activity helps relieve stress.
• Proper medication: Expectant mothers should take all the prescribed medications on time, as advised by the doctors. These medicines will help to better manage the pregnancy and avoid further complications.
• Timely medical checkup: Having timely medical checkups and scans is vital for high-risk pregnancies. Foetal development and the mother's health are monitored closely at each visit. This will help doctors analyse the situation and make necessary changes to the medication if needed.
• Proper nutrition: Consumption of healthy, fresh, nutrient-rich foods is vital in high-risk pregnancy cases.
• Adequate rest: Getting adequate rest and avoiding physical strain will help the body retain energy.

How to Prevent a High-Risk Pregnancy

Although many factors might cause a high-risk pregnancy, keeping a positive outlook is crucial. A few simple tips that might help prevent a high-risk pregnancy are:

• Body Weight: Women planning for pregnancy should strive to maintain an ideal body weight.
• Pre-natal appointment: Taking a pre-natal medical appointment will help to diagnose any underlying medical conditions that can cause complications in pregnancy.
• Nutrition: Both partners should eat healthy foods and exercise to maintain good health while attempting to get pregnant.
• Pre-natal Vitamins: Doctors often prescribe prenatal vitamins before the pregnancy is confirmed to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
• Avoiding Nicotine and Alcohol: Both partners should refrain from smoking and drinking. This will help ensure a healthy pregnancy and reduce the chance of complications.

Conclusion

A high-risk pregnancy need not be a cause for concern, as it does not imply a serious threat to the life of the mother or the baby. With proper medical advice, this condition can be easily managed for a successful pregnancy.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Bengaluru - Brookefield. Call 1860-500-4424 to book an appointment.