Management Of High-Risk Pregnancy

What is High-Risk Pregnancy

A pregnancy is categorized into high risk if there are certain complications that pose a health risk for mother, baby or both. For the best outcome,there is a need to manage high-risk pregnancy by a specialist.

Let us first learn the factors that lead to high-risk pregnancy.

Risk Factors That Leads To High-Risk Pregnancy

1.Age of the mother-

Women under the age of 17 years and those above a period of 35 years are more at the risk of developing complications. The risk of genetic defects and miscarriage increases if pregnancy is planned after 40 years of age.

2.Medical conditions existing from before the pregnancy-

High blood pressure, lung disease, STD, heart problems, HIV if present before the conception presents a risk to the unborn baby.

3.The previous history of a miscarriage or family history of miscarriage-

If a woman had miscarriages in the past or if there is a family history of a miscarriage or genetic disorders, pregnancy is considered high-risk and special attention is given. A few tests may b conducted,and the doctors advise specific precautions or give medications to ensure the health of mother and baby.

4.Medical conditions during pregnancy-

There are specific health issues that strike a female during gestation such as gestational hypertension, Precambrian, gestational diabetes etc. These conditions put mother and child health at risk and increase the chances of low birth weight,premature birth and stillbirth.

5.Multiple pregnancies-

Female carrying two or more babies are at high risk.

6.Lifestyle-

Smoking, drinking and taking drugs during pregnancy leads to fetal malformation

Every mother wants to deliver a healthy baby safely. Consult a gynecologist as soon you suspect you are pregnant. If your doctor finds that your pregnancy is at high risk you will be given special care, specific medication and precaution are advise ensuring you give birth to a healthy baby and also to ensure your health.

Managing High-Risk Pregnancies

1.Managing stress and anxiety-

Stress releases hormones that may lead to preterm or low birth weight baby. Stress contracts the blood vessels reduces the blood flow and oxygen supply to the uterus. You cannot avoid stress entirely but can reduce it through meditation and pregnancy yoga. Join prenatal yoga classes for this. Involve your family and friends for moral support. Listen to music, read books, spend time enjoying your hobbies such as painting or playing the guitar.

2.Eat healthy-

Right nutrition during pregnancy is what you can do to prevent or manage a high-risk pregnancy. Follow what your dietitian says. If you are suffering from gestational hypertension,sodium intake is restricted. If you are a victim of gestational diabetes crab intake is limited. Eat lots of green leafy vegetables, pulses, nuts, dairy and drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated. Avoid alcohol and limit the intake of caffeine. Better avoid aerated drinks and soy products.

3.Healthy Lifestyle-

You need to quit smoking and alcohol consumption. Smoking may lead to asthma and increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy causes fetal abnormality and congenital physical and mental defects.

4.Gain right weight-

Overweight and underweight during gestation both the condition scan be detrimental for you and baby’s health. Keep your weight under control. Seek the help of your doctor and follow the advice.

5.Make sure to take medications-

The prenatal medications and multi-vitamins suggested by your doctor are to keep the complication away. So be regular with your medication.

6.If you are travelling during pregnancy be careful-

It is considered safe to travel between 14th to 28th week of gestation if you have a healthy pregnancy.Those who are at high risk may suffer from complications. It is always advised to discuss with your doctor before making any travelling plans.

7.Oral health during pregnancy-

Due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy the risk of oral diseases increase which may adversely affect your pregnancy so take care of oral hygiene.

8.Stay Active-

Pregnancy is not a disease. You don’t need to rest all the time until you are given a bed rest by the doctor. Learn pregnancy exercises from your doctor. A brisk walk is most preferred. Staying active prevents gestational diabetes, ecclesial and also keep stress at bay. Also, staying active increase the chance of normal labour.