I'm pregnant and my doctor says my pregnancy is "high-risk." What does this mean?
–Destiny
A "high-risk" pregnancy means a woman has one or more things that raise her — or her baby's — chances for health problems or preterm (early) delivery.
A woman's pregnancy might be considered high risk if she:
- is age 17 or younger
- is age 35 or older
- was underweight or overweight before becoming pregnant
- is pregnant with twins, triplets, or other multiples
- has high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, or another health problem
- had problems with a previous pregnancy, including premature labor or having a child with a genetic problem or birth defect
Smoking, taking illegal drugs, and drinking alcohol also can cause health problems for a pregnant woman and her baby.
Because your pregnancy is considered high-risk, it's important to work with your doctor or care team to get any health problems that can be managed under control.
Other important tips for a healthy pregnancy include:
- See your doctor early in and throughout your pregnancy for prenatal care.
- Eat a healthy diet (getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, etc.) and exercise if your doctor says it's OK.
- Gain a healthy amount of weight (not too much or too little).
- Protect yourself from infections (including Zika). Wash your hands well and often; do not eat raw meat, fish, or unpasteurized cheese; get any immunizations your doctor recommends; and use condoms to protect against STDs.
- Reduce stress in your life.
Related Articles
Medical Care During Pregnancy
The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect.
Read MorePreventing Premature Birth
Babies who are born premature - before 37 weeks of pregnancy - can have health problems that last their whole lives. Learn ways to prevent early labor and have a healthy pregnancy.
Read MorePrenatal Tests: FAQs
Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.
Read MoreStaying Healthy During Pregnancy
During your pregnancy, you'll probably get advice from everyone. But staying healthy depends on you - read about the many ways to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.
Read MoreTreatments to Prevent Premature Birth
Some women are more likely than others to go into labor early. Find out what doctors can do to help prevent or delay early labor.
Read MoreWhy Are Babies Born Early?
Many things can cause a baby to be born early or with health problems. Some of these things can be controlled, but others can’t. Find out what you can do to have a healthy pregnancy.
Read MorePregnancy Precautions: FAQs
Moms-to-be have a lot of questions about what's safe during pregnancy. Keep your sanity by knowing what you can - and can't - do before your baby arrives.
Read MoreExercising During Pregnancy
Most women benefit greatly from exercising throughout their pregnancies. But during that time, you'll need to make a few changes to your normal exercise routine.
Read MoreA Week-by-Week Pregnancy Calendar
Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you!
Read MoreA Guide for First-Time Parents
If you're a first-time parent, put your fears aside and get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.
Read More5 Ways to Prevent Early Labor (Slideshow)
It's best for babies not to be born before they're due. Learn what you can do to prevent early labor.
Read MoreTaking Care of Your Mental Health During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings a mix of feelings, and not all of them are good. It can be even harder if you're dealing with depression or anxiety.
Read More
