What are the risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy?

A medical issue that existed before to becoming pregnant might occasionally cause a high-risk pregnancy. In some situations, a pregnancy may become high risk due to a medical problem that manifests itself while you or your unborn child are pregnant.

Specifically, the following may increase the chance of a high-risk pregnancy

• Advanced maternal age. Pregnancy risks are higher for mothers older than age 35.
• Lifestyle choices. Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs can put a pregnancy at risk.
• Obstetrical health issues. Pregnancy risks can be raised by conditions such high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid illness, blood or heart conditions, poorly managed asthma, and infections.
• Problems during pregnancy. There are hazards associated with a number of pregnancy problems. Examples include an abnormal placental position, foetal development that is less than the 10th percentile for gestational age (foetal growth restriction), and rhesus (Rh) sensitization, a potentially dangerous disease that can develop when your blood type is Rh negative and your unborn child's blood type is Rh positive.
• Multiple pregnancy. Pregnancy risks are higher for women carrying more than one fetus.