Bumrungrad Health Briefing #71: Navigating High-Risk Pregnancy: What Every Mother Should Know

19 May, 2025
Posted by: Bumrungrad International Hospital

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also come with unexpected risks. A high-risk pregnancy means that there’s a higher chance of complications that could affect the health of the mother, baby, or both. However, with the right care and attention, many high-risk pregnancies can result in healthy outcomes.

What Makes a Pregnancy High Risk?

A pregnancy may be considered high risk due to:

Maternal age (under 18 or over 35)

Chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or thalassemia

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, or drug abuse

Previous pregnancy complications, including multiple births, cesarean deliveries, or miscarriage

Conditions that can arise during pregnancy include:

Preeclampsia (dangerous high blood pressure)

Gestational diabetes

Placenta previa (low-lying placenta)

Fetal growth restriction or birth defects

Twins or multiples

Warning Signs to Watch During Pregnancy

Some symptoms should never be ignored—especially in high-risk pregnancies. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Severe abdominal pain or persistent cramps

Strong headaches that don’t go away

Blurred vision, dizziness, or fainting

Chest pain, shortness of breath, or choking sensation

Swelling in the hands, face, or around the eyes

Sudden weight gain or reduced fetal movement

Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage

These could be signs of preeclampsia, preterm labor, or other urgent conditions requiring immediate evaluation.

Advanced Screening and Treatments

Thanks to modern prenatal medicine, many complications can be identified early through:

Ultrasound scans and cervical measurements

Cervical cerclage to prevent early labor

Amniocentesis or non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT) to detect fetal abnormalities

Hormonal and medication therapies to manage symptoms

At Bumrungrad International Hospital, our Women’s Center offers comprehensive high-risk pregnancy care—from early diagnosis to delivery. Our multidisciplinary team of maternal-fetal medicine specialists, obstetricians, and neonatologists provides 24/7 support, backed by a state-of-the-art facility featuring a Level 4 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Book a consultation today >> https://bhx.one/CyWKBL

Provide by the Women’s Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital https://bhx.one/DKNtYp