Jul 03, 2020
A high-risk pregnancy doesn’t have to be gloom and doom. . Here are some expert tips from Rosewalk Hospital to help you enjoy this phase to the fullest.
Pregnancy is often painted as a quixotic phase of unbridled joy. And while it certainly heralds a time of celebration for almost every woman, it isn’t always followed by sweetness and light. For some women, complications can pursue pregnancy like an ominous cloud, driving an unshakable feeling of anxiety and uncertainty. Expert medical guidance can not only offset complications, but also instil a sense of calm, letting you cherish the phase between belly and baby.
Risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy
A high-risk pregnancy can increase your odds of complications, before and after the birth of your baby. Here’s a spotlight on some factors that may increase your risk profile:
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Epilepsy
• Anaemia
• Rhesus negative blood group
• Advanced maternal age
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Infections
• An obstetric history involving prior abortions or congenital malformations
• Medical conditions that develop during the course of the pregnancy, such as multiple gestations, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, low-lying placenta, intrauterine growth restriction, amniotic fluid variations, etc
Care programmes for a high-risk pregnancy
If yours has been declared a high-risk pregnancy, consider seeking out a multidisciplinary maternity hospital that can give you the care you need By placing your faith in a good obstetrician, you can navigate challenges effectively while staying calmly in the know at every juncture.
Here’s a typical outline of a tailored high-risk pregnancy programme.
1. Preconception check-up
Conditions like polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), thyroid dysfunction, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, amongst other problems, can affect your chances of conception. A preconception check-up allows your gynaecologist to identify health problems that may come in the way of a healthy pregnancy. It is worth having a preconception check-up even if you’ve already had a baby before. And especially necessary if you have a history of congenital defects, miscarriage, stillbirth or preterm labour.
2. Nutrition counselling
A balanced diet can provide your body with essential nutrients and keep you feeling vitalised throughout your pregnancy. Consult your designated dietitian for sustainable meal plans which align to your lifestyle and background, healthfully fuel your weight gain and meet your nutritional goals.
3. First-trimester pregnancy monitoring
An early scan, at around 6 weeks’ gestation, can help determine the health of your pregnancy and whether you need additional blood tests or ultrasounds. If you’ve had previous losses or challenges with sustenance, your specialist might also recommend some medication, or other interventions, to help sustain your pregnancy.
4. Second and third-trimester pregnancy monitoring
In order to monitor your progress on a continual basis, your obstetrician might advise weekly check-ups, among other measures, to be sure that your baby is developing as it should. You might also want to opt for physiotherapy, yoga and Lamaze sessions on your doctor’s recommendation, to prime yourself for labour and postpartum.
A new life taking seed inside you is an experience second to none, and even more so when you’ve worked so hard to achieve and sustain it. Staying informed, being prepared and keeping protected are your secret weapons to a successful pregnancy. Go on and arm yourself well.
Looking for a top gynaecologist in Delhi? Schedule an appointment with a specialist at Rosewalk Hospital today.
ROSEWALK TEAM
Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Panchsheel Park