What makes your Pregnancy High Risk

A pregnancy is considered high-risk when there are potential complications that could affect the mother, the baby, or both. Several factors can contribute to a high-risk pregnancy, and these can be categorized into maternal health conditions, pregnancy-related issues, lifestyle factors, and age-related risks. Here are the primary factors that can make a pregnancy high-risk:

Maternal Health Conditions

1. Chronic Conditions: Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can complicate pregnancy.
2. Previous Pregnancy Complications: A history of complications such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or previous cesarean delivery can increase the risk.
3. Infections: Certain infections, like HIV, hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections, can pose risks to the mother and baby.
4. Obesity: Being significantly overweight increases the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and other complications.
5. Mental Health Issues: Conditions like depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders can impact pregnancy.

Pregnancy-Related Issues

1. Multiple Pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more increases the risk of preterm labor, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia.
2. Placental Problems: Issues like placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus) can cause severe complications.
3. Fetal Conditions: Certain congenital abnormalities or genetic conditions in the baby can make the pregnancy high-risk.
4. Preterm Labor: The risk of delivering before 37 weeks of gestation increases the likelihood of complications for the baby.

Lifestyle Factors

1. Substance Use: Smoking, alcohol use, and illicit drug use during pregnancy can lead to numerous complications, including low birth weight and developmental issues.
2. Poor Nutrition: Inadequate nutrition can affect the health of both the mother and the baby.
3. Lack of Prenatal Care: Not receiving regular prenatal care can result in undiagnosed complications and unmanaged health conditions.

Age-Related Risks

1. Advanced Maternal Age: Women who are 35 years or older are at a higher risk for complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.
2. Teen Pregnancy: Adolescents have a higher risk of certain complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and hypertension.

Other Factors

1. Preterm Labor History: A history of preterm births can increase the risk of recurrence.
2. Blood Disorders: Conditions like sickle cell disease or thrombophilia can complicate pregnancy.
3. Medical Interventions: Procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can increase the risk of multiple pregnancies and related complications.

 Conclusion:

Managing a high-risk pregnancy with Dr. Archana Salve involves thorough monitoring and personalized care to address potential complications. Her expertise ensures that both mother and baby receive the best possible care to navigate a safe and healthy pregnancy.