Navigating a high-risk pregnancy: 10 tips for staying healthy and feeling positive

Preparing for the birth of a child can be one of the most amazing moments of your life. And yet learning that your pregnancy is considered "high-risk" can feel overwhelming. You might be worried about what this high-risk pregnancy means for you and your baby.

But remember—a high-risk pregnancy doesn't necessarily mean you'll experience problems. It simply means you need some extra care and attention during this special time.

Here are some practical steps you can take. With the right information and support, you can navigate this journey with confidence.

What makes a pregnancy high risk?

When your doctor classifies your pregnancy as "high-risk," they're simply saying that you or your baby might need special monitoring or care during your pregnancy. This label helps your healthcare team provide the best possible care for your specific situation.

A high-risk pregnancy means you'll likely have more prenatal visits, additional tests and possibly more ultrasounds than in a typical pregnancy. But it could be helpful to think of it as “VIP treatment”—a little extra attention to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Is there a high-risk pregnancy age?

Age is one of the most common factors that can place you in a high-risk category. Generally, pregnancies in women under 17 or over 35 are considered higher risk. This doesn't mean you can't have a perfectly healthy pregnancy at these ages—thousands of women do every year.

If you're over 35, you might even hear the term "advanced maternal age" or "geriatric pregnancy" (an outdated term many doctors are moving away from). While the risk of certain complications does increase with age, many women in their late 30s and 40s have healthy pregnancies and babies.

Why you might be considered high-risk for pregnancy

Age is just one factor for high-risk pregnancies. Other issues might be considered by your doctor, although it is important to note that having one or more of these doesn't guarantee you’ll have any problems. It just means you might have to pay a little more attention during your pregnancy:

• Pre-existing health conditions: Conditions like Diabetes, Alta presion sanguinea, Enfermedad del corazón or autoimmune disorders
• Pregnancy complications: Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or problems with the placenta
• Multiple babies: Carrying twins, triplets or more
• Previous pregnancy issues: If you've had complications in earlier pregnancies
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use or substance abuse

Building your high-risk pregnancy support team

One of the most important steps in managing a high-risk pregnancy is working with the right healthcare team. You might need to see maternal-fetal medicine specialists (also called perinatologists) who specialize in high-risk pregnancies.

Your team might include:

• Your regular OBGYN
• Medicina materno-fetal Especialistas
• Various medical specialists depending on your specific condition
• Nurses and/or midwives
• Mental health professionals

Don't skip your prenatal appointments, even if you're feeling great. These regular check-ups help catch any potential issues early. Come prepared with questions and concerns— your healthcare team is there to support you.

10 ways to care for yourself during a high-risk pregnancy

While it’s normal for your focus to be on ensuring the health of your growing baby, it’s important to pay attention to your own health, too. Here’s what you can do to care for yourself throughout your pregnancy.

Staying healthy physically

Taking care of your physical health is crucial during any pregnancy, but especially during a high-risk one. Here are some practical tips:

1. Focus on nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Your doctor might recommend specific nutritional guidelines based on your situation.
2. Stay active, safely: Ask your healthcare provider about appropriate exercise. Many women with high-risk pregnancies can still engage in gentle activities like walking or prenatal yoga. And national guidelines from obstetric experts recommend that pregnant individuals get about 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days (or 150 minutes per week) to support a healthy pregnancy.
3. Take prescribed medications and supplements: Don't skip your prenatal vitamins or any medications your doctor has prescribed.
4. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your baby's movements and any symptoms you experience. Report anything unusual to your healthcare provider promptly.
5. Get plenty of rest: Listen to your body and rest when needed. Adequate sleep is essential for your health and your baby's development.
6. Hydrate: Drinking enough water helps support increased blood volume, aids in forming amniotic fluid, supports digestion, helps prevent constipation and urinary tract infections, and keeps both mom and the baby healthy. Most pregnant people should aim to drink about 8-12 cups (64-96 ounces) of water per day.

Don’t forget your emotional health

The emotional aspects of a high-risk pregnancy can be just as challenging as the physical ones. Here's how to take care of your mental health:

1. Practice stress-reduction techniques: Try meditation, deep breathing exercises or gentle yoga to help manage anxiety.
2. Ask for help: If you're struggling with persistent anxiety or depression, talk to your healthcare provider about seeing a mental health professional.
3. Communicate and connect: Share your feelings with your partner, family or friends. Let them know how they can support you. Connect with other women experiencing high-risk pregnancies through support groups (online or in-person).
4. Examine and acknowledge your feelings: It's normal to feel anxious, frustrated or even sad at times. Don't judge yourself for these emotions.

Preparing for your high-risk delivery

As the due date approaches, it's helpful to prepare for what might be different in a high-risk birth:

1. Create a flexible birth plan: Understand that things might go differently from what you initially or ideally envisioned. Discuss options with your healthcare team, so you are all on board with your wishes, as well as alternate plans.
2. Pack early: Have your hospital bag ready earlier than needed, just in case.
3. Tour the facility: Hospitals and birthing centers are happy to show you around the labor and recovery spaces, including the NICU if there's a possibility your baby might need those services.
4. Discuss pain management: Talk with your doctor about safe pain management options for your specific situation (this might also be part of your birth plan).
5. Plan for help postpartum: Arrange for support after you bring your baby home, as you might need extra recovery time.

If you have any questions or concerns about your delivery, don’t hesitate to talk to your OBGYN and care team. No question is too big or small. We’re here for you, and we want you to feel confident every step of the way.

You've got this: Encouragement for high-risk moms-to-be

Remember that "high-risk" is a medical term to ensure you get the best care—it doesn't define your pregnancy experience or predict problems. Many women with high-risk pregnancies have smooth journeys and healthy babies.

Focus on what you can control:

• Follow medical advice.
• Take care of yourself physically and emotionally.
• Surround yourself with support.

Every prenatal visit, healthy meal and self-care moment is an act of love for your baby and for yourself.

Trust your instincts, ask questions and be your own advocate. You know your body best, and your input is valuable to your healthcare team.

This journey might have extra challenges, but it also offers extra opportunities to connect with your healthcare providers, learn about your body and prepare for parenthood. You are stronger than you know, and you're already showing what a great parent you'll be by taking good care of yourself and your baby.

Ready to build your specialized pregnancy care team? Schedule an appointment today with an OBGYN near you.