What is a High-Risk Pregnancy?

Last updated 10 months ago

Maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and lifestyle are important for everyone, but these elements become essential for a woman planning a pregnancy. In combination with excellent prenatal care, making healthy choices will help prevent the complications of a high-risk pregnancy. At Overland Park Regional Medical Center, our Woman and Infant Care Center prioritizes the health and wellness of the women, mothers, and children in our community. Our physicians are experienced in the diagnosis and management of any high-risk situation, and strive to promote the healthy development and delivery of every baby.

So, what is a high-risk pregnancy? A pregnancy that is deemed “high-risk” has certain characteristics that place the health of the mother and developing child at a greater risk. Some of the conditions that can cause a high-risk pregnancy include:

Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure, high urinary protein, and abnormal blood concentrations of liver enzymes. When left unmanaged, this condition can lead to long-term health problems in mother and baby, and can even be fatal to both.
HIV/AIDS
Over time, HIV compromises and destroys the body’s ability to fight infection. A mother can transfer this disease to her developing child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding, compromising the baby’s immune system and long-term health.
Gestational diabetes
This form of diabetes is temporary and occurs only during a woman’s pregnancy.Like other forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes causes unsafe increases in blood sugar levels that can affect all aspects of bodily function.

If you are planning a pregnancy and are at risk for experiencing complications, work closely with your obstetrician or healthcare professional. With their help, you can carefully manage your health and promote the continued health of your baby. To find a compassionate and experienced healthcare professional in Overland Park Regional, call (888) 724-5920 today. Overland Park Regional Medical Center is proud to offer high-quality, patient-centered medical care to all members of our community.