At Woodlands OBGYN Associates we are very experienced in caring for a wide variety of high risk pregnancies.
Types of high-risk pregnancies we manage
There are numerous maternal issues present prior to pregnancy that may impact pregnancy management and delivery plans. In addition, there are countless situations that may develop during pregnancy that change prenatal care and delivery plans.
Some of the multiple high-risk issues we routinely manage include:
- Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
- Gestational Diabetes
- Chronic Hypertension
- Preeclampsia
- Twin Pregnancies
- IVF Pregnancies
- Advanced Maternal Age
- Preterm Labor
- Preterm Rupture of Membranes
- Placental and Amniotic Fluid Problems
- Fetal Growth Issues
- History of Pregnancy Loss
- History of Preterm Delivery
- Preexisting Maternal Cardiac, Pulmonary, or Autoimmune Concerns
Depending on your individual situation we may send you to consult with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist in conjunction with your care at Woodlands OBGYN Associates.
You may also need to see other specialists such as a cardiologist, pulmonary specialist, or reproductive endocrinologist.
Your care will be individualized and tailored to meet the needs of you and your baby!
Can I have a VBAC (Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section)?
At Woodland OBGYN Associates we do not offer VBAC as an option to our patients with a prior cesarean section. If you have had a prior Cesarean Section you will be scheduled for a repeat Cesarean Section.
Why is Having Multiples Considered a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Being pregnant with multiples can be exciting and also a little stressful. Twins and other multiples don't guarantee that your pregnancy will be complicated. It simply means you may face a higher risk of preterm labor, high blood pressure, and other conditions that could affect your health or your baby's health. For this reason, your doctor may order certain tests and may schedule more frequent checkups.
What Can I Expect During My High-Risk Pregnancy?
Having a high-risk pregnancy, you can expect to be followed more closely by your medical care team. This way, any issues that may arise are caught and addressed very quickly. You may be scheduled for more appointments than you would be otherwise, and you might also be scheduled for various special tests, such as ultrasound imaging to observe the fetus, uterus, or cervix. The types of testing that may occur during a high-risk pregnancy will relate to your high-risk definition. Additionally, you will undergo all of the usually recommended tests, such as urinalysis, blood tests, and fetal heart rate. Your doctor will discuss your appointment frequency and tests with you in detail as they relate to your pregnancy, potential risks, and your overall health.
What Can I Do to Manage My High-Risk Pregnancy?
Even if your pregnancy risks are only slightly elevated from the norm, just the classification as high-risk can create some stress. Knowing how to support your pregnancy can alleviate some of this. General recommendations for managing a high-risk pregnancy include:
- Stay informed. If your doctor tells you that your pregnancy will be treated as high-risk, get to know what you can about the definition. For example, if you're pregnant with multiples, you can ask your doctor specific questions related to this. You can also learn about your high-risk pregnancy online, but take care to read information only from reputable organizations.
- Gather support. In addition to maintaining an open line of communication with your doctor and medical care team, it can be immensely helpful to also have supportive friends and family. Depending on your condition, you may need to make certain changes to your lifestyle, such as scaling back how much you do on a daily basis. Supportive friends and family may be needed to pick up the slack. For emotional support, consider joining a high-risk pregnancy support group online or in your local area.
- Take excellent care of yourself. Prioritizing self-care can mean a healthier pregnancy and better outcomes, both for you and your baby. Self-care may include taking daily walks as approved by your care team, eating a nutrient-dense diet, and staying adequately hydrated. It may also include setting a sleep schedule for yourself, taking time to rest as you need, and avoiding stressful situations.
- Listen to your body. Throughout your pregnancy, your body can be your best guide. Tuning in to waning energy levels, discomforts, hunger, and other sensations not only increases your connection with yourself and your baby but also quickly alerts you to something that doesn't feel normal. If a sensation doesn't feel quite right, contact your OBGYN.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Interested in learning more about how Woodland OBGYN can assist with your High-Risk Pregnancy? Give us a call at 281.364.9898 to schedule your consultation today with one of our high risk pregnancy doctors in The Woodlands, Texas.