Pregnancy is often a period of great joy and anticipation, but for some women, it can also bring significant challenges when classified as a high-risk pregnancy. This designation means that the mother or her baby has an increased chance of health problems before, during, or after delivery. Understanding the factors, risks, and management strategies is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes. High-risk pregnancies require specialised care to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

At Shachi Women's Hospital, we provide expert care for High-Risk Pregnancies in Ahmedabad, combining advanced medical technology with compassionate support to help women navigate this crucial period safely.

A high-risk pregnancy is one in which the mother, baby, or both face increased health risks before, during, or after delivery. Various factors can contribute to a pregnancy being classified as high-risk, including pre-existing medical conditions, complications arising during pregnancy, and specific health concerns related to the mother or baby

Regardless of whether your pregnancy is considered high-risk, contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms :

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Extreme fatigue
• Decreased or no fetal movement
• Fever over 100.4°F
• Heart palpitations
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Severe or worsening headache
• Redness, swelling or pain in your face or limbs
• Thoughts of harming yourself or the fetus
• Difficulty breathing
• Vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge

Various conditions and circumstances can increase the risk level for both the mother and the baby throughout pregnancy. Here are some common factors that lead to High-Risk Pregnancies :

• Women's age under 17 or over 35 years.
• Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and autoimmune.
• Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or eclampsia.
• Carrying twins, or triplets.
• Low body mass index (BMI).
• Smoking, alcohol use, and drug use.
• A history of miscarriages, preterm labour, or delivery.

Early and comprehensive prenatal care is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring a high-risk pregnancy. Monitoring tests may include :

• Blood and urine tests to detect genetic or congenital conditions.
• Ultrasonography to screen for congenital conditions by creating images of the fetus.
• Assessing fetal well-being through techniques like a biophysical profile.

To help prevent a high-risk pregnancy, consider the following steps :

• Avoid drugs and alcohol.
• Maintain a healthy body weight before pregnancy.
• Manage any preexisting health conditions.
• Ensure that any long-term medications are safe to take during pregnancy.
• Quit smoking.
• Plan pregnancies between the ages of 18 and 34.
• Practice safe sex.

Pregnancy can involve various complications, each with significant implications for the health and well-being of both mother and baby. here are some complications associated with it :

• Babies born prematurely, before 37 weeks, may encounter respiratory, gastrointestinal, and developmental challenges.
• High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause organ damage, and seizures, and may necessitate early delivery.
• Gestational diabetes increases the risk of higher birth weight, premature delivery, and cesarean section.
• Placenta previa or placental abruption can result in severe bleeding, endangering both mother and baby.
• Fetal growth restriction raises the risk of stillbirth and other complications.

At Shachi Women’s Hospital, we prioritise the early identification and comprehensive management of high-risk pregnancies to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby. Our approach encompasses various strategies tailored to the unique needs of each patient, guided by our commitment to excellence in maternal and fetal care.

• We emphasise the importance of early and consistent prenatal care as the cornerstone of managing high-risk pregnancies. Regular visits to our obstetricians facilitate proactive monitoring, early detection of potential issues, and timely interventions to mitigate risks.
• Depending on individual risk factors, our patients may receive specialised care from our team of maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists, also known as perinatologists. With expertise in high-risk pregnancies, they provide advanced care and monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes.
• We offer guidance and support to women with high-risk pregnancies, advocating for lifestyle adjustments that promote maternal and fetal health. This may include adopting a healthier diet, engaging in appropriate physical activity, and abstaining from harmful substances.
• For patients with preexisting conditions such as gestational diabetes or hypertension, our team provides tailored medication management, close monitoring, and, if necessary, hospitalisation to optimise maternal and fetal health.
• Recognising the importance of thorough monitoring, we offer a range of diagnostic tests and screenings tailored to high-risk pregnancies. From more frequent ultrasounds to specialised tests like amniocentesis and non-stress tests (NST), we ensure comprehensive evaluation and proactive management.
• We prioritise patient education about the risks associated with high-risk pregnancies and empower our patients with knowledge about management strategies. Additionally, we offer emotional and psychological support, including counselling services, to help alleviate stress and anxiety throughout the pregnancy journey.

At Shachi Women's Hospital, we are committed to providing unparalleled care and support for women experiencing High-Risk Pregnancies. Our team of experienced specialists, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and baby. With a holistic approach to care, personalised treatment plans, and a legacy of excellence spanning over three decades, we stand at the forefront of maternal and fetal healthcare. When you choose Shachi Women's Hospital, you can trust that you will receive the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Your journey to motherhood is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

If you are facing a High-Risk Pregnancy in Ahmedabad or have concerns about your pregnancy, do not hesitate to contact Shachi Women's Hospital. Our dedicated team is here to provide the support and care you need to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby. Let us guide you through your high-risk pregnancy with expertise, compassion, and unwavering support. Your journey to motherhood is our priority.