Factors of a High Risk Pregnancy

Many hereditary and lifestyle factors can result in a high risk pregnancy.

Before getting pregnant, a woman should do her best to maximize her nutrition and take care of any known health issues or risks (like smoking) that she can. Sometimes, though, complications can occur even when all seems well.

Maternal Age

A woman over the age of 35 is considered to be at an advanced maternal age. There are some health issues that are more prevalent in women age 35 or older, such as arthritis, hypertension or diabetes. Chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus are also more common in women over 35. Experts believe that this is due to the age of the mother's eggs.

Overweight

Being overweight can put both mother and baby at risk. Overweight mothers are at a higher risk for preeclampsia (high blood pressure brought on by pregnancy) and gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes may cause the mother to give birth to a large babe (known as macrosoma). Overweight mothers are also more likely to require a cesarean section at the time of delivery, which increases the risk of injury to the fetus.

Underweight

Being underweight during pregnancy (especially if you were underweight already) can cause complications like premature childbirth. In addition, deficiencies in nutrients such as folic acid during pregnancy can lead to birth defects like spina bifida.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that only pregnant women get. Due to hormonal changes, your body can have a hard time breaking sugars down into energy, resulting in high blood sugar.

Avoid Risks

While you can't avoid some risks in pregnancy, you can minimize potential complications by not smoking, eating well, taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, and exercising.

References

• "The High Risk Pregnancy Sourcebook," Denise Chism, 1998
• The Mayo Clinic

Resources

• Baby Center