We all know the process: a 40-week pregnancy is followed by natural labor and delivery, and a new baby is at home within a few days. However, this is not a reality for some women. Sometimes complications arise, constituting a high-risk pregnancy. These require extra care, like the care of our high-risk OBGYN Miami, FL.
What is a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Doctors refer to pregnancy as high-risk when complications arise that could affect the health of mom or baby. Many factors can constitute a high risk of pregnancy, such as:
- Medical Conditions Present Before Pregnancy
Conditions like high blood pressure, organ function issues, autoimmune diseases, and STDs can all be factors that cause a pregnancy to be considered high risk.
- Medical Conditions Existing During Pregnancy
Some medical conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes only show up during pregnancy and require a close eye on the pregnancy
- Pregnancy Complications
Complications such as premature labor, fetal problems, and placenta previa will all require more looking after, and therefore cause the pregnancy to be high risk.
- Multiple Pregnancies
Carrying multiple babies at one time can cause more complications to arise and increase the risk of pregnancy-specific medical conditions.
- Maternal Age
Women under the age of 17 or over the age of 35 face a greater risk of complications when pregnant. After age 40 the possibility of miscarriage and genetic defects increases
- Lifestyle Factors
Choosing to smoke cigarettes, use drugs, or drink alcohol during pregnancy will negatively affect the pregnancy, causing it to carry higher risk.
If any of these factors apply to you, our high-risk OBGYN Miami, FL, can help keep your pregnancy safe.
What Does a High-Risk Pregnancy Mean for You?
Having a high-risk pregnancy means that extra care will be needed to ensure a safe delivery for both the mother and the baby. A capable and caring OBGYN, like our high-risk OBGYN Miami, FL, will be necessary to keep mom and baby safe and happy through the pregnancy and delivery.
In addition to physical care, emotional support may be necessary. A high-risk pregnancy can cause added stress and a mix of emotions. You can ask your healthcare provider to support resources in order to keep your pregnancy enjoyable and exciting.
Though managing a high-risk pregnancy can be tough, consultants such as our high-risk OBGYN Miami, FL, can help take care of you and put your mind at ease. If your pregnancy is a high risk, contact Miami Women’s Health today to make an appointment.