Pregnancy is often described as one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life, filled with joy and anticipation. For many, the journey is straightforward and without complication. For others, however, certain medical conditions, lifestyle factors, or pregnancy-related issues can increase the chances of complications. This is what physicians call a high-risk pregnancy.
A high-risk pregnancy means that extra attention, specialized care, and close monitoring are needed to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby. While the term may sound alarming, it does not mean that something will go wrong. It simply means that the chances of complications are higher, and working with experienced specialists can help manage those risks.
Understanding the most common risk factors can empower women to be proactive about their health.
1. Advanced Maternal Age
Women who are 35 years or older at the time of pregnancy are more likely to be classified as high risk. Advancing age increases the chances of complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and restricted fetal growth.
Ask about special screening options, such as noninvasive prenatal testing for chromosomal conditions, and be proactive with regular check-ins.
Older mothers may also have a slightly higher risk of miscarriage or chromosomal abnormalities. With specialized monitoring, however, most women in this age group have healthy pregnancies and deliveries.
2. Preexisting Medical Conditions
The health of the mother before conception plays a large role in pregnancy outcomes. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, heart problems, autoimmune disorders, and chronic infections can all contribute to complications. In some cases, medication adjustments are needed to ensure maternal safety and fetal well-being.
Identifying and managing these conditions before pregnancy greatly reduces risks.
3. Medical Conditions That Develop During Pregnancy
Even women who begin pregnancy in excellent health can develop conditions that raise their risk. Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and other complications can arise unexpectedly and require immediate treatment. These conditions not only place the mother at risk but can also impact the baby’s growth and development if not carefully monitored.
Early detection through regular prenatal visits is key.
4. Pregnancy-Related Issues
Certain complications are directly tied to the pregnancy itself. Infections, a shortened cervix, or a history of preterm labor can put both mother and baby at risk. Women who experienced premature birth in a prior pregnancy are often closely monitored in future pregnancies to watch for early signs of labor and to intervene quickly if needed.
5. Multiple Pregnancy
Carrying twins, triplets, or more naturally increases the demands on the body and raises the likelihood of complications. Multiple pregnancies are associated with higher rates of preterm labor, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure. Babies in multiple pregnancies are more likely to be born early, making specialized care essential.
Women carrying twins or more often need more frequent ultrasounds and tailored nutrition plans. Ask your provider about your schedule and how to support healthy fetal growth.
6. Placenta Previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta implants low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervix. This condition can cause bleeding during pregnancy and labor. If placenta previa persists into the later stages of pregnancy, delivery is typically managed with a cesarean section to reduce risks to both mother and child.
If you have placenta previa, report any vaginal bleeding or contractions immediately. Plan ahead with your team about delivery timing and what to expect if sudden bleeding occurs.
7. Maternal Mental Health
Mental health conditions such as depression or severe anxiety are important but sometimes overlooked risk factors. Depression during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of preterm birth, low birth weight, or cesarean delivery. Untreated mental health concerns also affect a mother’s overall well-being.
Never hesitate to mention mood changes or stress. Mental health is as important as physical health in pregnancy. Treatment and support are available and can make a major difference for you and your baby.
8. Blood Disorders
Blood disorders such as sickle cell disease or clotting abnormalities increase the risk of complications. Women with these conditions may face higher chances of urinary tract infections, restricted fetal growth, preterm labor, or pregnancy loss. Early diagnosis and specialized management play a critical role in keeping both mother and baby safe.
9. Obesity
Obesity is increasingly common among women of reproductive age and is one of the leading risk factors for pregnancy complications. Being significantly overweight during pregnancy can raise the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, miscarriage, stillbirth, and delivery complications.
Even small steps, like adding 10 minutes of walking per day or swapping sugary drinks for water, can have a positive impact. Your care team can help you set realistic goals.
10. Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops when pregnancy hormones interfere with the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. In Nevada, about 13 percent of pregnancies are affected. Proper management lowers the risk of preeclampsia, large-for-gestational-age babies, and birth complications that may require cesarean delivery. Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes are also at higher risk of developing low blood sugar after birth, so careful monitoring is essential.
Other Factors That Can Raise Risk
Other circumstances may also contribute to a high-risk pregnancy. These include maternal infections, lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol use, and inadequate prenatal care. Each pregnancy is unique, which is why individualized assessments and ongoing communication with your healthcare team are important.
Managing High-Risk Pregnancy with Expert Care
Being told you have a high-risk pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but this classification is meant to provide additional resources and monitoring, not predict poor outcomes. The right care team can dramatically reduce risks and help you feel more confident throughout your pregnancy.
At the High Risk Pregnancy Center, we specialize in maternal-fetal medicine. Our physicians use advanced imaging, diagnostic testing, and evidence-based treatment to monitor both mother and baby closely. We create personalized care plans that consider preexisting conditions, current pregnancy complications, and lifestyle factors.
Our goal is always the same: to ensure that you and your baby are as safe and healthy as possible.
The Bottom Line
High-risk pregnancy is more common than many people realize. While only six to eight percent of pregnancies meet the strict definition, nearly half have factors that would benefit from specialized monitoring. Understanding your risk factors allows you to be proactive about your health and seek the right care early.
If you have questions about your pregnancy risk or have been told you are high risk, schedule a consultation with the High Risk Pregnancy Center. Our experienced specialists in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno are here to provide compassionate, expert care that supports you every step of the way.
