By Dr. Effie Siomos, OB/GYN

One of the great joys of being an Obstetrician-Gynecologist is seeing how dedicated women are when it comes to achieving healthy pregnancies.

This willingness to go above and beyond for your baby is especially important when facing the challenges of a high-risk pregnancy. While most pregnancies are healthy and normal, high-risk pregnancies can be successfully managed with quality, local care.

The term comprises a group of conditions that can occur to a mom (maternal) or baby (fetus). The most common maternal conditions are mild high blood pressure, diabetes, twins and preterm labor. Fetal conditions include genetic or anatomic findings on ultrasound or placenta abnormalities.

High-risk pregnancies may be identified before or after conception. Pre-existing factors such as age, family history, current health of the mother and history of difficult pregnancies can be markers of a high-risk pregnancy before conception. High blood pressure and diabetes can occur before or, more often, during pregnancy.

This depends on why your pregnancy is high risk, but as your providers, we will explain the whole process and work together for a healthy baby. Care for a high risk pregnancy usually involves extra office visits and close monitoring of the maternal or fetal condition. This may be by ultrasound, fetal heart rate tracing and extra labs. 

Most high risk pregnancies can be cared for locally. We have the technology to perform ultrasounds and the knowledge to prescribe and adjust medications.

Rarely, certain conditions require consultation and transfer of care to larger centers. This is to make sure the baby has access to an intensive care unit if needed. As in any pregnancy, we will talk you through every step of the way.

A visit to your provider when you are planning a pregnancy is important. We can review your medical history, family history, medications and previous pregnancies. Remember to start a prenatal vitamin two months before attempting pregnancy. We can also reassure you about any worries you may have.

Pregnancy should be a time of joy and expectation. But it is common to be more anxious during a high-risk pregnancy. Relaxation tips include pregnancy massage, time with family and friends, sleeping well and exercise as recommended by your provider. A strong support system is also important, especially for high-risk pregnancies which require significant bed rest.

Talk to your provider about your concerns. Even in high-risk pregnancies, most babies are born healthy. We will help guide you through your healthiest pregnancy possible.