High-Risk Pregnancy: Care Instructions

Overview

Your pregnancy is high-risk if you or your baby has an increased risk for health problems. Many things can put you at high risk. But being at high risk does not mean that you or your baby will have a problem.

Your pregnancy is high-risk if:

• You have a previous condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Your baby has been found to have a problem, such as Down syndrome.
• You have a problem during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, or problems with the placenta—the organ that gives food and oxygen to the baby.
• You had a problem in a past pregnancy.
• You are younger than 17 or older than 35.
• You are pregnant with twins or more.

Your doctor will watch you closely to make sure that you and your baby are doing well. You may have ultrasounds or other tests to check your baby's growth. In some cases, you may have to rest at home (or in the hospital) until your baby is old enough to be born safely. If your doctor thinks that your health or your baby's health is at risk, you may have an early delivery.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Go to all your prenatal visits. You will have tests for high blood pressure and for protein in your urine (both are signs of preeclampsia). Your doctor also will make sure that your baby is growing properly.
• Follow your doctor's directions for activity. You may have to reduce your activity or spend a lot of time resting (partial bed rest).
  • Ask your doctor if you need to change your work activities. Your doctor can write your employer a note about work activity changes you may need. The doctor can also talk to you about your options for medical leave if needed.
  • If your doctor places you on partial bed rest, gently stretch your legs every hour to keep good blood circulation. And keep a phone, notepad, and pen near the bed where you can easily reach them.
• If you are told to take medicine, such as medicine for high blood pressure, take your medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicine.
• Follow your doctor's advice for diet and other tips for a healthy pregnancy. Rest when you need it, eat well, and drink plenty of water. If you are not on partial bed rest, do mild exercise (such as walking) if your doctor says it is okay.
• Do not smoke or vape. They can harm your baby's growth and health. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Do not drink alcohol or use marijuana or other drugs. They can cause problems in the growing baby. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor.
• Avoid chemicals and radiation (such as from X-rays). Stay away from people who have colds and other infections.
• Your doctor may ask you to count your baby's movements, such as kicks, flutters, or rolls. Once each day, time how long it takes to count 10 movements. If you don't feel at least 10 movements in 2 hours, call your doctor.