High Risk Pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy refers to a pregnancy where the mother or baby has an increased chance of experiencing health complications before, during, or after birth. Here are some factors that may classify a pregnancy as high-risk:

Factors Contributing to High-Risk Pregnancies

Maternal Age:

Advanced Maternal Age: Pregnancy in women over 35 years old increases the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome).

Teenage Pregnancy: Young mothers may face higher risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

Medical Conditions:

Pre-existing Conditions: Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and kidney disease can complicate pregnancy.

Previous Pregnancy Complications: History of miscarriages, preterm labor, stillbirth, or previous cesarean sections (C-sections) increases the risk of recurrence.

Medical Conditions:

Twins, Triplets, or More: Pregnancies with multiples are inherently higher risk due to increased likelihood of preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational diabetes.

Pregnancy-related Conditions:

Gestational Diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia/Eclampsia: High blood pressure and protein in the urine, potentially leading to seizures (eclampsia).

Placental Disorders: Placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix) or placental abruption (placenta detaching from the uterus wall).

Genetic Factors:

Family History: Genetic disorders or conditions with a hereditary component may increase the risk of birth defects or genetic abnormalities in the baby.