A high-risk pregnancy is a pregnancy in which the mother, baby, or both have a higher-than-usual chance of developing complications during pregnancy, delivery, or after birth.

Being classified as high-risk does not mean that something will definitely go wrong. It simply means that closer monitoring or specialized care may be recommended.

Common factors that can make a pregnancy high-risk

• Maternal age: Very young pregnancy or age 35+ at delivery
• Existing health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, etc.
• Pregnancy-related conditions: Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta problems, or significant anemia
• Multiple pregnancy: Twins, triplets, or more
• Previous pregnancy complications: Previous miscarriage, preterm birth, stillbirth, or cesarean complications
• Fetal concerns: Growth problems, congenital abnormalities, or abnormal genetic screening
• Lifestyle or other factors: Certain medications, smoking, alcohol use, or other circumstances that can affect pregnancy

How is a high-risk pregnancy managed?

Depending on the reason, care may include:

• More frequent prenatal visits
• Additional blood tests and ultrasounds
• Monitoring the baby’s growth and wellbeing
• Closer monitoring of blood pressure and blood sugar
• Consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist when appropriate
• Planning the timing and method of delivery based on the mother’s and baby’s condition

In short: High-risk pregnancy means extra risk, not necessarily a bad outcome. With appropriate monitoring and treatment, many high-risk pregnancies result in healthy mothers and babies.