High Risk Pregnancy

A High-Risk Pregnancy is one where the mother or baby has a greater chance of complications during pregnancy, labor, or after delivery. Gynaecologists closely monitor such pregnancies with special tests, medications, and frequent check-ups to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Common Causes of High-Risk Pregnancy

1. Diabetes in Pregnancy

• Gestational Diabetes – Develops during pregnancy
• Pre-existing Diabetes – Type 1 or Type 2 before pregnancy

Management:

• Strict blood sugar control (diet, insulin if needed)
• Regular ultrasounds to monitor baby’s growth
• Frequent sugar level testing

2. Hypertension in Pregnancy

• Gestational Hypertension – High BP after 20 weeks without protein in urine
• Chronic Hypertension – Existing before pregnancy
• Preeclampsia – High BP + protein in urine or organ damage (can be dangerous)

Management:

• Medications to control BP (safe in pregnancy)
• Regular BP monitoring, urine tests, and fetal growth scans
• Early delivery if mother/baby’s health is at risk

Other Causes of High-Risk Pregnancy:

• Age <18 or >35
• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets)
• Previous pregnancy losses
• Thyroid disorders, anemia, autoimmune diseases
• Obesity or underweight
• Lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol)

What Gynaecologists Do for High-Risk Pregnancies:

• Personalized care plan
• More frequent antenatal visits
• Fetal monitoring (e.g., NSTs, growth scans)
• Blood tests and organ function tests
• Planning for safe delivery (timing and method)