Understanding the importance of professional care during high risk pregnancy
A pregnancy is possibly one of the most emotional times of a woman’s life. There’s often a mix of feelings including love, excitement, anticipation, and for some, fear. Many women, especially first time moms, are nervous about what to expect from labor, delivery, and life with a newborn. Yet, those women who have been diagnosed with a high risk pregnancy often deeper, and very real, fears about both their and the baby’s health.
A pregnancy can be diagnosed as high risk for any reason that would put the health of the baby or mother in jeopardy, including:
- A former pregnancy that resulted in preterm labor or delivery.
- Carrying twins, triplets, or more.
- A medical history that includes several miscarriages or a family history of complications during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
- Maternal medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, epilepsy, or high blood pressure.
- A woman who is of advanced maternal age.
- Prenatal testing or screening that shows abnormalities or causes for concern.
Being termed “high risk” may sound scary; however, it’s simply a common phrase used to ensure that the mother receives the appropriate amount of prenatal care. It does not indicate that there will be any problems for the baby or the mother. Care for a high-risk pregnancy includes more frequent appointments, ultrasounds, and testing. If you are on medication for a health condition, your prescriptions will be monitored carefully. As your pregnancy progesses, your doctor will monitor you carefully to determine if the baby should be delivered early.
Expectant mothers with high-risk pregnancies should work with their physician to keep themselves and the baby as healthy. This includes going to all of your checkups and testing appointments, eating a healthy diet, taking prescribed medication and vitamins, avoiding individuals who have the cold or flu, not smoking, and getting the appropriate level of exercise and activity.
Dr. Taryll Jenkins of Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine understands that high-risk pregnancies can be overwhelming. Dr. Jenkins and his team work closely with his Katy-area patient to ensure she has the right care. For more information about high risk prenatal care call Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine today.
