
While pregnancy can be a memorable time filled with anticipation, love, hope, and endless possibilities, learning that you have a high-risk pregnancy may dampen your joy and make you worry about yourself and your baby. Our expert team at AllSafe Medical Group is available to explain your diagnosis and ensure you receive the best possible care for a safe and healthy pregnancy.
What Defines a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Doctors consider a pregnancy to be high-risk when factors increase the likelihood of complications for the mother, baby, or both. These may include conditions such as maternal age (under 17 or over 35), chronic health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure, carrying multiples, or difficulties with previous pregnancies.
Being high-risk doesn’t guarantee you will have complications; it means your doctor will work closely with you to anticipate and prevent possible adverse outcomes.
Why You Should Choose an Experienced OB-GYN to Oversee Your High-Risk Pregnancy
Your OB-GYN’s expertise is vital for ensuring a safe pregnancy and delivery. For high-risk pregnancies, this means creating a personalized care plan that addresses your unique needs. Frequent check-ups, open communication, and close monitoring will allow your doctor to identify potential issues and intervene as necessary.
AllSafe Medical Group’s team uses advanced diagnostic tools and stays abreast of the latest treatments to give you the best care possible. We work with you to prioritize your health and the health of your baby throughout the journey.
Essential Questions to Ask About Your High-Risk Pregnancy
Consider asking your OB-GYN these questions to ease your mind during your high-risk pregnancy.
1. What Specific Factors Indicate a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Doctors may classify your pregnancy as high-risk for various reasons, such as being older than 35 or having a history of pregnancy complications.
Your OB-GYN can provide detailed information about how these factors can impact your pregnancy and the steps your care team will take to monitor and manage them. This knowledge will allow you to make wiser choices and actively participate in your care plan.
2. How Will My Prenatal Care Differ From a Typical Pregnancy?
High-risk pregnancies often require more intensive care. Your OB-GYN may recommend additional ultrasounds, blood tests, or noninvasive prenatal screenings to closely monitor your baby’s development and your health. These tools help your physician identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
You may also need to schedule more frequent doctor’s visits and potentially consult with specialists, such as a perinatologist or maternal-fetal medicine doctor. By understanding how your care plan differs from a typical pregnancy, you’ll know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
3. What Are the Warning Signs I Should Watch For?
Being aware of red flags that could indicate complications is critical for high-risk pregnancies. Your OB-GYN can outline specific symptoms to monitor, such as severe headaches, vision changes, reduced fetal movement, or unusual bleeding.
Knowing these signs helps you act quickly if something feels wrong, potentially preventing severe consequences. Make sure to ask for guidance on what to do and who to call if you experience concerning symptoms.
4. What Can I Do to Reduce Potential Risks?
While you can’t eliminate every risk, you can still proactively improve your pregnancy’s outcome by maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercise, managing stress, and attending all scheduled appointments.
Avoid harmful habits like smoking or alcohol consumption, and discuss medications or supplements with your OB-GYN. Your doctor can provide tailored advice to address your specific situation and improve the outlook for you and your baby.
5. Will I Need a Specialized Delivery Plan?
Many high-risk pregnancies require a customized delivery strategy to ensure the safest experience for mother and baby. Your OB-GYN may suggest options such as a planned C-section, inducing labor, or delivering in a hospital with an on-site neonatal intensive care unit.
Understanding your delivery plan in advance reduces anxiety and helps you prepare mentally and logistically for labor and birth. Be sure to ask your doctor about any potential scenarios so you feel ready to deliver a healthy baby.
High-Risk Pregnancy Management in Orange County, LA
At AllSafe Medical Group, we understand how challenging a high-risk pregnancy can be. Our team has created an environment of openness, empathy, and expert care to give you the confidence you need.For expert management of high-risk pregnancies, contact our office today at (562) 904-6031 or use our online form to schedule an appointment.