Successful growth of the fetus and quick recovery of the mother after birth depend on monitoring of a pregnancy by an obstetrics practitioner. Certain individuals, especially those who are older or are suffering from chronic conditions, may be at greater risk for problems carrying a pregnancy. Here are things that potentially make a pregnancy high-risk:
Maternal Age
People who are younger than 15 or older than 35 typically have a higher risk of pregnancy failure. As you get older, the risk of age-related complications increases, as well as an increase in birth defect risks. Having children later in life often comes with higher miscarriage rates since fertility typically declines with age. There’s also the risk of preterm birth or placental issues if you become pregnant at an older age.
Risks regarding genetics increase, and there’s a rise in delivery complications among older women as well. If the pregnancy does go to full-term, a caesarian section is more likely. Other risks among older women are a higher risk of blood pressure issues due to hypertension and restrictions on fetal growth.
Chronic Conditions
Individuals with pre-existing hypertension or diabetes have a higher risk of pregnancy failure. Other chronic conditions that impact pregnancy are heart disease and persistent autoimmune conditions. Those with frequent asthma flare-ups or obesity may also face an increased risk with their pregnancy. You should also talk to a doctor about your pregnancy if you have anxiety disorders or other mental health issues.
Multiple Pregnancies
If you have had previous pregnancies end with miscarriages, your current pregnancy might be at higher risk. Women who previously had twins, triplets, or quadruplets could also have a high pregnancy risk. Multiple pregnancies can result in low birth weights and increase placental issues. They also increase gestational hypertension and increase the likelihood of cesarean deliveries.
Previous pregnancies could increase the amount of amniotic fluid during the current pregnancy, increasing the risk of preterm rupture. This results in high monitoring needs and frequent bed rest. That is why delivery timing is key to increasing the chances of quick postpartum recovery.
Placental Problems
Insufficient placental development and placental abruption occurrences often increase the risk of a miscarriage. There could also be a risk of placenta previa and vasa previa, which can put blood vessels at a greater risk. Retained placental tissue can increase implantation complications and cause blood vessel anomalies in the developing fetus. If a placental accreta is detected by an obstetrics professional, the risk of poor oxygen delivery to your developing fetus increases. Placenta problems also increase hemorrhage risks and can result in early placenta detachment. The probability of stillbirth and delivery complications is also higher among mothers with placental issues and concerns. Medical interventions become necessary to confirm the health of the uterine wall.
Working With an Obstetrics Professional
Obstetrics professionals may suggest lifestyle changes such as reduction of alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of a miscarriage. They conduct multiple tests to detect any infections that might interfere with the pregnancy. They can also talk you through any risks, concerns, or questions you may have regarding childbirth. Reach out to an obstetrician who can help you through a pregnancy journey.
