What Is Considered a High-Risk Pregnancy?
A pregnancy may be considered high risk if certain factors increase the chance of complications. This doesn’t mean that problems will occur—only that your care team will watch more closely to keep both you and your baby safe.
As defined by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG),* common factors that can make a pregnancy high risk include:
- Being younger than 17 or older than 35
- Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or high blood pressure
- Carrying multiples (twins or more)
- A BMI over 35
- A history of pregnancy loss or complications in prior pregnancies
- Concerns about fetal growth or development
- Placental or amniotic fluid issues
Your provider will tailor your care plan based on your specific needs and risk factors, often including more frequent appointments or collaboration with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.
High-Risk Pregnancy Screening
Your provider begins with a thorough review of your medical history, current health, and pregnancy progress. Depending on your needs, screening and monitoring may include:
- Routine and specialized ultrasounds
- Bloodwork and urine tests to detect infection or gestational conditions
- Genetic carrier screening for inherited conditions
- Glucose testing to identify gestational diabetes
- Blood pressure monitoring to screen for preeclampsia or hypertension
These evaluations help your care team identify potential issues early, guide treatment, and ensure that you and your baby are receiving the right care at the right time.
How to Manage a High-Risk Pregnancy
If your pregnancy requires closer observation, you may have more frequent checkups, additional imaging, or specialized testing to track fetal growth and well-being. Your provider will:
- Monitor your baby’s heartbeat, movement, and growth
- Track your blood pressure and lab results
- Adjust your care plan as your pregnancy progresses
- Discuss delivery options, such as induction or cesarean birth, if medically recommended
Every decision is made with your safety and comfort in mind, and your provider will explain each step so you feel informed and supported throughout your pregnancy.
Supportive Services and Resources
In addition to medical care, your provider may recommend supportive services such as:
- Prenatal education on labor, delivery, and newborn care
- Nutritional counseling for diabetes or weight management
- Physical therapy for back or pelvic pain
- Mental health and emotional support for stress, anxiety, or postpartum planning
If additional expertise is needed, your care team will coordinate directly with specialists to maintain seamless, connected care.
Schedule High-Risk Pregnancy Support
If your provider has identified a risk during pregnancy—or if you’re planning to conceive and have questions about your health—reach out to UWH of Pennsylvania. Our team will guide you with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care designed to protect both you and your baby.
FAQs
Does a high-risk pregnancy mean something is wrong?
Not necessarily. It simply means your provider will monitor you more closely to manage any potential complications early. Many people with high-risk pregnancies deliver healthy babies.
How often will I need prenatal visits?
Depending on your risk factors, you may have visits every two weeks or even weekly later in pregnancy. Your provider will create a schedule that fits your needs.
Can I still have a vaginal delivery with a high-risk pregnancy?
In many cases, yes. Your provider will monitor your condition and discuss the safest delivery options for you and your baby as your pregnancy progresses.
*Source: ACOG