At Risk Pregnancies

A pregnancy is considered high-risk when the mother or fetus has a suspected higher-than-normal risk for complications. High-risk can stem from health concerns in the mother, the fetus or from the pregnancy itself. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of pregnant women experience a high-risk pregnancy.

Service/Treatment

If you have been diagnosed as high-risk, your Fetal Care specialist will closely monitor you and your baby throughout your pregnancy.

There are multiple reasons why a pregnancy may be classified as high-risk, including:

• Chronic medical conditions in the mother that may affect the pregnancy, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
• History of pregnancy-related complications
• History of pregnancy loss
• Maternal age – moms who are over 35 or under 17 may need special prenatal care
• Multiple gestation
• Infertility treatments
• Abnormal fetal ultrasound results that need further confirmation/evaluation

Warning Signs

A pregnancy can become high-risk at any time if health concerns develop. Contact your doctor or your local hospital if you experience any of the following symptoms during pregnancy:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Swelling in the face or fingers
• Leakage of fluid or sudden increase in vaginal discharge
• Severe or persistent headache
• Pain in the abdomen or shoulder
• Persistent vomiting that is not related to morning sickness
• Chills or a fever
• Noticeable change in the frequency or strength of your baby's movements
• Painful or urgent urination
• Dizziness or fainting
• Sudden increase in weight or abdominal size
• A sense that something isn’t right – trust your instincts