High Risk Pregnancy

High-risk pregnancy often sounds scarier than it actually is. If you fall into the high-risk pregnancy category, it usually just means more frequent visits with the Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates team so that they can monitor these risk factors closely. Are you experiencing a high-risk pregnancy? The expert providers at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates are here to help. Located in Marietta and Powder Springs, Georgia, call or schedule an appointment at the office nearest you. 

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one that poses a risk to the health of you or your baby. Usually, your risk is assessed based on your medical history, your behaviors, and preexisting conditions. There are circumstances that will put you into the high-risk category no matter how healthy you are, such as:

• Your age (younger than 17 or older than 35)
• If you are carrying multiple babies in the womb

Other factors that could put you in the high-risk category typically include:

• Preexisting health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and kidney disease
• Alcohol, drugs, or cigarette use
• A history of miscarriages or difficult births
• A genetic condition in the baby
• An infection, such as hepatitis C or HIV

What is different in high-risk care?

If you fall into the high-risk category, expect to visit Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates more often so the team can monitor your health with:

• Regular ultrasounds
• Blood pressure checks
• Urinalysis to check for urinary tract infections
• Blood tests
• Screenings

These visits are extremely important for your health and the health of your baby. By closely monitoring the progression of your pregnancy, your provider can catch small issues before they become larger problems.

What if I develop problems?

Some women start out in the low-risk category but are moved to the high-risk category because of developments during the pregnancy. Call Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates right away If you are experiencing:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Swelling of your face, feet, and hands; vision problems; and severe headache, which could indicate preeclampsia
• Cramping
• Regular contractions
• Persistent lower back pain

And, while it’s harder to check on the baby’s health if you notice less movement -- or no movement at all -- from the baby, call Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates right away.

You know your body best, and while pregnancy can make everything go “out of whack” for a while, if you notice anything different or something just doesn’t feel right, make an appointment to have it checked out. 

The providers at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates are experienced obstetricians who understand that every pregnancy is different, and they will work with you to ensure your journey is a safe one. Call today or request an appointment online.