High-Risk Pregnancy Care

Pregnancy is a time of great anticipation for women as their growing bodies get ready for the birth and introduction of their precious baby (or babies). While all pregnancies are special, there are some pregnancies that require extra care and attention. A high-risk pregnancy is one in which there is a condition present that increases the chances that the expectant mother or the baby may have a health concern. At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A. we are a comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology practice that is committed to providing excellent medical care with sensitivity and compassion. Our obstetricians have both the training and experience needed to care for high risk pregnancy patients.

There are different reasons why a pregnancy would be considered high-risk. Some conditions and factors are present as pre-existing conditions, while others first appear during pregnancy. High-risk pregnancy issues include:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, kidney issues, heart problems, and sexually transmitted diseases all increase the risks during pregnancy. All pre-existing conditions should be discussed with your doctor prior to trying to conceive or as soon as you are pregnant.
• Maternal age: One of the most common factors that make a pregnancy high-risk is a woman’s age. Women over the age of 35 and under the age of 18 are at an increased risk for complications.
• Pregnancy history: A woman’s pregnancy history will always be taken into account. For those with a history of high-risk pregnancies, multiple miscarriages, or preterm labor, they will most likely be classified as high-risk from the moment of conception.
• Complications during pregnancy: High or low levels of amniotic fluid, problems with the cervix, uterus, and/or placenta, and Rh compatibility issues all increase the risks of pregnancy. Concerns with the fetus will also increase the risk. High blood pressure or gestational diabetes that occur during pregnancy are also added challenges and will put a woman at high-risk.
• Weight: Being overweight or underweight before pregnancy is often a risk factor.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol consumption, illicit drug use, and multiple sexual partners all increase the risk level of a pregnancy.
• Multiples pregnancy: Carrying twins or higher level multiples puts a woman and her babies at higher risk for complications.

At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A. our physicians and staff closely monitor high-risk pregnancy patients using the highest standard in care. We are a comprehensive Obstetrics and Gynecology practice that is committed to our patients’ well-being.