Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful and transformative experience. However, complications develop in up to 50,000 pregnancies in the United States each year, so they’re categorized as “high risk.”
High-risk pregnancies can be challenging and require extra care and attention from both you and your health care provider. Remember, knowledge and preparation are your allies in ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy journey.
At Capital Women’s Care in Silver Spring and Laurel, Maryland, our team’s top priorities are the health of you and your baby. If you had a high-risk pregnancy in the past, we’re ready to help.
Share with us your concerns, medical history, and details about your previous high-risk pregnancy. We can help you determine whether it’s safe for you to conceive again.
If another pregnancy is in your future, learn how to prepare for it to minimize the likelihood of complications.
Address any underlying health conditions
If underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or lupus, contributed to your previous high-risk pregnancy, it’s essential to manage them effectively before getting pregnant again. This may involve medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, or specialized treatment plans to optimize your health for pregnancy.
Optimize your lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is always important for a healthy pregnancy. Focus on:
Eating a healthy diet
Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Consider consulting with a nutritionist for a personalized plan.
Exercising
Engage in regular, moderate exercise to keep your body strong and prepare it for the physical demands of pregnancy.
Stopping smoking and alcohol consumption
If you smoke or consume alcohol, now is the time to quit. Both can have adverse effects on pregnancy.
Keep up with your weight
Achieve and maintain a healthy weight before conception. Obesity can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Take prenatal vitamins
Start taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid at least one month before you plan to conceive. Folic acid helps prevent certain birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine.
Ask about genetic counseling
If your previous high-risk pregnancy was due to a genetic condition or you have concerns about inherited diseases, consider genetic counseling. This can help you understand the risk and explore options for genetic testing.
Take care of your emotional and mental well-being
Pregnancy can be emotionally challenging, especially after a high-risk experience. Seek emotional support from friends, family, or a therapist. Joining support groups for women who also had high-risk pregnancies can provide a sense of community and reassurance. We can help you find you the appropriate support.
Monitor your cycles
Keep track of your menstrual cycles and ovulation to maximize your chances of conceiving when your body is most fertile. This can be particularly important if you’ve been trying to conceive for some time.
Get regular check-ups during pregnancy
Once you become pregnant, don’t miss any scheduled prenatal check-ups and screenings. High-risk pregnancies require close monitoring through exams and ultrasound, and detecting issues early can lead to better outcomes. We set up appointments in advance and ensure you get the necessary evaluations.
With careful planning, proactive health management, and the guidance of our skilled team at Capital Women’s Care, you can take important steps to reduce the risk of having another high-risk pregnancy. And, if you need extra care and support, we’re here for you.
Contact Capital Women’s Care today to set up a consultation if you have any pregnancy or gynecology questions. Call or use this website to request your appointment today.
