Management of High-risk Pregnancy

High risk pregnancy is common among 6-8 pregnancies out of all pregnancies. If the complications are serious, there might be a need for special care and delivery needs to ensure the finest possible outcome.

There are varied causes of high risk pregnancies putting both mother and the baby at risk. Here are some of them:

• Female above the age of 35 or under 17
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol, and exposure to other toxins
• Pre-existing health conditions 
• Health conditions related to pregnancy

It is important to consult the doctor right away if following signs and symptoms of high risk pregnancy are experienced: 

• Severe abdominal pain which is not going away
• Extreme fatigue
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fever above 100 degrees
• Stopping or slowing of foetal movements
• Heart palpitations
• Nausea and vomiting worse than morning sickness
• Not able to breathe
• Thoughts of killing or harming the foetus
• Vaginal discharge or bleeding
• Redness or swelling on the face or limbs

Females with preexisting health conditions are at the increased risk of experiencing high risk pregnancy. Here are some of the health risk factors for a high risk pregnancy:

• Diabetes 
• Covid-19
• Autoimmune disease like multiple sclerosis or lupus
• High blood pressure
• HIV/ AIDS
• Kidney disease 
• Thyroid disease
• Blood clotting disorders
• Mental health disorders like depression
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Obesity
• Low body weight

There are certain high risk pregnancy complications if left untreated. Here are some of them: 

• Low or high birth weight
• Preeclampsia
• Birth defects
• Miscarriage
• Stillbirth
• Issues with baby’s brain
• Excessive bleeding during labour
• Preterm delivery
• Caesarean delivery
• Intensive care unit admission
• Neonatal intensive care admission for the baby

It is important to consult the healthcare professional on time if any of the signs of high risk pregnancy are observed. One must explain each and everything clearly to the doctor so that the right treatment is considered. If the doctor suspects high risk pregnancy, here are some tests that might be ordered:

• Blood tests- To check genetic conditions or birth defects
• Ultrasonography- To create images of foetus and look for congenital conditions
• Biophysical profile- To ensure that the baby is getting sufficient oxygen
• Monitoring the heart rate, non- stress test, breathing, and baby’s movements in the womb

The management of a high risk pregnancy depends on certain risk factors. Here is the recommended care plan for high risk pregnancies:

• Regular and close follow-up with the expert obstetrician
• Consulting a maternal foetal medicine specialist
• Regular ultrasounds and closer foetal monitoring
• Monitoring blood pressure at home regularly
• Careful monitoring of using medications to treat pre-existing health conditions

It is vital to be aware of the fact that if the doctor suspects high risk pregnancy, chances are C-section is recommended to reduce the risk of more complications.

Rukmani Birla Hospital, Jaipur is a multispecialty hospital delivering healthcare services to its patients for years now. Our patient care is unmatchable and the services we offer are economical for every patient. We make sure that our services are accessible to everyone and that no one has to face problems while reaching us. With our latest and up-to-date advanced medical technology, we offer a reliable and smooth patient experience.

If you have been experiencing problems and think that you have a high risk pregnancy, then consult our most experienced and highly skilled obstetricians. They will guarantee an appropriate diagnosis and give you treatment depending on the symptoms you are experiencing.