HIGH RISK PREGNANCY

Definition

A high risk pregnancy is one in which some condition puts the mother, the developing fetus, or both at higher-than-normal risk for complications during or after the pregnancy and birth.

I'm 36 years old and pregnant. A friend told me that I automatically have a high-risk pregnancy. What is that and what does it mean? - Jane.

The term "high-risk pregnancy" describes a case where a pregnant woman has one or more factors that could put her or the fetus atrisk for health problems.

In general, a pregnancy may be considered high risk if the pregnant woman:

• is 35 years old or older

• is 15 years old or younger

• is underweight or overweight prior to becoming pregnant

• is pregnant with more than one fetus

• has gestational diabetes

• has gone into premature labor

• has had a premature baby

• has had a baby with a birth defect, especially heart or genetic problems

• has high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, lupus, asthma, a seizure disorder, or another longstanding medical problem