What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one where the mother, baby, or both have a higher chance of health complications before, during, or after delivery.

Women with high-risk pregnancies often require closer monitoring, more frequent check-ups, and specialised care to ensure the best possible outcomes.

When is a pregnancy considered high risk?

A pregnancy may be considered high risk if there are:

• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Pregnancy-related complications
• Lifestyle or environmental factors
• Age-related risks (younger than 17 or older than 35)

What are the risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy?

Below are the risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy.

1. Having pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), thyroid disease, HIV/AIDS, and blood disorders.
2. Having health conditions specific to pregnancy like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and eclampsia, multiple gestations (pregnant with twins or triplets), and a history of preterm birth.
3. Lifestyle choices are also considered a risk factor. If a pregnant woman smokes, consumes alcohol, or uses recreational drugs, it may affect the baby. 
4. Maternal age is also a risk factor. Pregnancy in women over 35 years of age or teenagers is considered as high risk.

How can you reduce the risk of complications in a high-risk pregnancy?

If your pregnancy is considered high risk, taking proactive steps can help reduce complications and support the health of both mother and baby.

Medical care and monitoring

• Attend all prenatal appointments: Regular check-ups allow your doctor to monitor your condition and detect issues early.
• Schedule a preconception consultation (if possible): Helps manage existing health conditions before pregnancy

Lifestyle and daily habits

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Balanced nutrition and safe physical activity (as advised by your doctor).
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.

Education and support

• Learn about your condition: Understanding risks helps you make informed decisions.
• Seek emotional support: Support from your partner, family, and healthcare team is important for overall well-being.

Can a high-risk pregnancy affect labour?

A high-risk pregnancy can lead to complications during labour. A hospital would be the best option for delivery as there are necessary equipment and personnel to monitor the process and intervene in case of a complication.

Moreover, if you are expecting multiple babies, you have a higher likelihood of experiencing early labour, especially in high-risk pregnancies. Preterm labour is common in high-risk pregnancies and may be triggered by factors like excessive amniotic fluid or underlying medical conditions.

In some cases, a vaginal delivery may be risky, leading to the need for a caesarean section. It is strongly recommended to discuss with your doctor to gain insight into what to expect during labour, mentally prepare yourself, and become well-informed about the possible situations that could unfold.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Each pregnancy is unique. Regular prenatal appointments and open communication with your doctor are crucial for monitoring your health and addressing any concerns throughout pregnancy.

A dedicated and expert team of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide patients with the best care and assistance. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any questions about gestational diabetes in pregnancy.

Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.