A high-risk pregnancy is one in which the birthing individual or infant is at higher risk for health problems or complications than usual. Having a high-risk pregnancy does not necessarily mean you will have a difficult pregnancy or delivery – it just means your care team will closely monitor you and your baby to ensure you are both as healthy as possible.
High-Risk Pregnancy FAQs
What are the risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy?
Age, lifestyle, or a pre-existing health condition can put you at high risk at conception. Some risk factors include:
- Pregnancy in teens and women ages 35 and older
- Smoking, alcohol and drug use
- Existing conditions such as autoimmune diseases, blood-clotting disorders, breathing problems, cancer or diabetes
- Overweight and obesity
- Previous surgeries involving the uterus
- Multiple gestation (carrying multiple babies, such as twins or triplets)
What conditions may increase my risk during pregnancy?
Even if you don’t have pre-existing risk factors, you or your baby may develop a health concern during pregnancy. Health conditions that increase your risk during pregnancy include:
- Cervical insufficiency — A condition that causes the cervix to dilate prematurely during pregnancy, often without contractions and related pain.
- Gestational diabetes — A type of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy.
- Maternal heart disease — Women who have a history of heart disease, with high blood pressure, or who are over 40 are at greater risk for this type of heart disease.
- Placenta previa — This occurs when the placenta rests low in the uterus and either partially or completely covers the woman’s cervix. It can also separate from the uterine wall when the cervix dilates (becomes widened or enlarges, or opens).
- Preeclampsia – This is a high blood pressure condition that can arise during pregnancy.
- Thyroid disease in pregnancy — Graves’ disease can cause your thyroid to produce excess hormones.
Are there any symptoms of a high-risk pregnancy that I should be aware of?
Symptoms of a high-risk pregnancy will vary, particularly if there is a pre-existing condition, and should be discussed with your doctor at the time of diagnosis. If you are concerned or experience any pain during pregnancy, consult with your doctor immediately. Symptoms that require attention during a high-risk pregnancy include unexplained bleeding, serious headaches, blurred vision, pain, cramping, and rapid breathing or heart rate.
What should I do if my pregnancy is considered high-risk?
You will likely be advised to see one of our maternal-fetal medicine specialists, also known as a perinatologist. These doctors have special expertise in caring for those with high-risk pregnancies, including individuals with gestational diabetes or endometriosis, those who are over 35, or those having twins or triplets. They will help guide you through your pregnancy.