High Risk Pregnancy

A High-Risk Pregnancy is one where the pregnant person, the fetus, or both, face a higher-than-normal chance of experiencing complications or health problems before, during, or after delivery. The term "high-risk" does not guarantee that a problem will occur; rather, it indicates the need for specialized care, increased monitoring, and expert management (often by a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist, also called a Perinatologist) to ensure the safest possible outcome.

What Does a High-Risk Pregnancy Mean?

Not all pregnancies are the same. Some women experience what doctors call a high-risk pregnancy. A high-risk pregnancy may involve minor problems during labor, but in some cases, it can lead to serious or life-threatening complications for both the mother and the baby.

This does not mean you cannot enjoy your pregnancy — it simply means that you and your baby will require extra care, monitoring, and support.

Common Causes of High-Risk Pregnancies

Maternal Age

Women under 17 or over 35 are at higher risk.
Risk of miscarriage and genetic defects increases significantly after age 40.

Blood Disorders

Conditions like thalassemia put extra stress on the body during pregnancy.
Increases the chances of the baby inheriting the condition.

High Blood Pressure

Can cause slow fetal growth or premature birth.
May lead to complications such as preeclampsia.
Risk of placental abruption (placenta separating before birth).

Chronic Kidney Disease

Higher chances of miscarriage.
Increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Greater likelihood of preterm birth and growth defects.

Ovulation Disorders

Cycles longer than 35 days indicate abnormal ovulation.
PCOS is a common cause and is rising among younger women.

HIV or AIDS

High risk of transmitting the infection to the baby during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Timely medication can significantly reduce transmission.

Autoimmune Disorders

May result in small babies (growth retardation).
Higher risk of preterm delivery.
Can cause maternal complications such as high blood pressure or blood clotting.

Depression

Anxiety and depression can worsen during pregnancy.
Self-medication or untreated depression can harm the baby’s health.

Lupus

Increases chances of preterm delivery.
Condition may worsen during pregnancy, impacting the mother's health.

Obesity

BMI above 30 increases pregnancy-related risks.
May lead to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or gestational diabetes.

Thyroid Disease

Both overactive and underactive thyroid can affect maternal and fetal health.

Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes

Poorly managed diabetes increases risks of high blood pressure and early delivery.
Can result in birth defects if not controlled properly.

Other Contributing Factors

Poor dietary habits.
Smoking or tobacco use.
Consumption of alcohol.
Use of recreational drugs.
These may lead to preterm birth, congenital disabilities, stillbirth, or developmental disorders.

Worried that any of the above may lead to a high-risk pregnancy for you? Let me help.