Whether you're starting or expanding your family, a pregnancy always requires significant care. However, sometimes, extra caution is needed, as in the case of a high-risk pregnancy. Although the name can be worrisome, it only refers to the possibility of having complications with the pregnancy and labor; it's not a guarantee. While a few factors contribute to the classification of it, thankfully, prenatal care can make a big difference in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Here's what you need to know. 

Factors Lead to a High-Risk Pregnancy

Those with pre-existing health conditions are likely to have a pregnancy that's classified as high-risk. This includes conditions like high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, diabetes, kidney diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Those who have sexually transmitted infections will also be deemed high-risk, especially as HIV or AIDS can directly affect the baby. Obesity, depression, and anxiety are also possible factors. If you've been pregnant before and had any complications, your OB-GYN will include that too.

There are also environmental factors. For example, smoking and excessive drinking have been proven to cause problems for both the mother and the child, so it's best to eliminate or minimize your exposure to it whenever possible. 

How Prenatal Care Can Reduce Risks

Through extensive prenatal care, your doctor can navigate the severity of the health conditions mentioned above and how it's affecting you. They'll also let you know early on if you have medications that need to be adjusted or replaced to better serve you through a pregnancy. Meeting with your OB-GYN regularly and discussing whatever symptoms come up will also help them plan how to best handle labor when it happens. For example, in situations where a vaginal birth may not be suitable, such as for those who are obese, they'll let you know whether a cesarian delivery, also known as a c-section, is best. 

If you're planning to get pregnant or are currently expecting and concerned about a high-risk pregnancy, you can rely on Advanced OB-GYN Services for prenatal care. Led by Dr. Joseph Hazan, with more than 30 years of experience, this practice is known for its compassion, accessibility, and comprehensive care. Please visit their exclusive and  informative website www.drhazan.com now.They have two locations, one in St. Peters, MO, and another in Bridgeton, MO. You can learn more about their services online, but if you have questions, you can call their St. Peters office at (636) 928-1800 and their Bridgeton office at (314) 291-2140.