The idea of carrying a baby for nine months will always raise concerns or anxieties for some women, and many wonder whether their pregnancy will come with risks.
High-risk pregnancies are not entirely uncommon and will require close monitoring and management. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why a pregnancy may be high-risk.
Multiple Pregnancy
Women who are carrying twins or triplets are considered to be at some risk throughout their pregnancy. This is mostly due to the increased chance of premature delivery and low birth weight.
Diabetes
Having Type 1 or 2 diabetes during pregnancy may increase the risk of a number of health problems for the developing baby. It may also increase the chance of an early miscarriage. The risk presented is much higher when blood glucose levels before and during early pregnancy have not been within a set target range.
Chronic medical issues
Women who deal with chronic medical conditions such as blood clots, epilepsy, arthritis and bleeding conditions are at higher risk of a number of complications throughout pregnancy. Their medical condition will need to be very closely monitored alongside pregnancy to ensure safe, complication-free delivery.
Previous pregnancy complications
Women who have already experienced complications in previous pregnancies, such as preterm delivery, pre-eclampsia, tears or still-birth, may be at the same or increased risk in a second pregnancy. Close monitoring is required consistently.
Family history and genetics
Couples with a family history of certain genetic or chromosomal conditions can be at increased risk of passing these genes on to their baby. Furthermore, if there is a family history of pregnancy complications, risk will increase further.
Previous caesarean section
If you have had to have a caesarian section in a previous pregnancy, the risk of needing an emergency c-section in subsequent pregnancies is increased. If you have had a c-section but are aiming for a vaginal birth, go to a hospital that can give an emergency c-section if required.
Previous miscarriage
While miscarriages are usually a one-off thing for most women, about 1% of the population will experience repeated miscarriages. For women who have had more than one, very close monitoring will be required.
Contact Dr Bevan Brown today!
For many women, just reading about high-risk pregnancy can be worrying. Pregnancy and birth is no small feat, and you never have to feel like you are going through it alone. If you have any questions about your pregnancy, potential risks, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Dr Bevan Brown is one of the most trusted gynaecologists and obstetricians in Sydney. Personalised care and strong relationships with our patients are of utmost importance!
