Pregnancy requires a few lifestyle changes, particularly if your gynecologist recognizes an increased risk due to your medical history or other conditions. A high-risk pregnancy requires extra precautions, from bed rest to medication, to safely carry and deliver the baby. Many factors can cause a pregnancy to be a high risk, including the following four.

4 Common Reasons for High-Risk Pregnancy

1. Chronic Illness

If the expecting mother has a chronic illness like diabetes or a thyroid condition, the observing physician will likely require certain precautions to help the mother and baby remain healthy. This may involve medication to regulate blood levels, bed rest, or frequent monitoring.

2. Premature Childbirth

Women who have had a premature birth in the past are more likely to have another in future pregnancies, so if you gone into labor before 37 weeks with previous children, you will likely be deemed a higher risk. Most gynecologists will order additional monitoring to check fetal size and health in addition to bed rest or medication to stall labor as long as possible.

3. Age

Teenagers or women over 35 may have additional complications due to how their bodies are changing. Expecting teenage mothers are more likely to develop high blood pressure or anemia, and they may go into premature labor. Women whose first pregnancy occurs after the age of 35 may also be deemed high risk because they are more prone to delivery complications resulting in a C-section, prolonged labor, or infant health problems like down syndrome. The gynecologist will closely monitor the mother and baby’s health if their age puts them at risk for these conditions.

4.  Pregnancy Conditions

Women expecting multiples or who are diagnosed with pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia will require additional evaluation and scans to ensure the safety of both the baby and mother. Multiples are more likely to result in early labor and health strain on the mother and babies, while gestational illnesses can put the mother at risk for developing serious health issues. Women with these complications will likely require medication, additional assessments, and bed rest.

If you are experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, remember to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your gynecologist. South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology PC is located in Foley, AL, and offers vital health services to women in the surrounding communities. From high-risk pregnancies to general gynecological care, the doctors at South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology PC offer comprehensive services for women’s needs. To learn more about the services they offer, visit their website, and call (251) 943-2141 to schedule an appointment.