Features of High-Risk Pregnancy


High-Risk Pregnancy pic

High-Risk Pregnancy
Image: drreislerobgyn.com

Keith Reisler, MD, provides high-quality obstetric and gynecological care at his private office in Plano, TX. There, Dr. Keith Reisler has welcomed numerous women with pregnancies classified as high-risk.

The term high-risk can be intimidating, particularly when applied to a pregnancy. It does not mean, however, that there is certainly or almost certainly something wrong with the baby. It simply means that the mother or baby is more likely than average to present with challenges during gestation or delivery. This can be true of any pregnant woman who is below the age of 17 or above the age of 35, is expecting multiple babies, or has experienced two or more spontaneous pregnancy losses.

Mothers with a history of previous labor and delivery problems, or who have children with genetic abnormalities, also receive the attention due to a high-risk pregnancy. The same is true for women whose current prenatal care has identified a genetic condition in the developing fetus.

An expectant mother may also be at high risk if she has certain medical issues of her own, hypertension and diabetes being prominent examples. Cardiovascular issues, history of kidney infections, history of seizures, autoimmune disease, and other chronic illnesses can similarly increase risk, as can some medications. Women who believe that they may be at high risk should consult with their obstetrician for further information.