Managing Pregnancy Risks
A high-risk pregnancy is one that is more likely to result in health problems for the mother or baby. Your chance of having pregnancy problems is higher if you are:
- Over age 35
- Overweight
- Carrying multiples, or
- Have had miscarriages and premature birth before
- Teen moms and African-American women are also at a higher risk, though doctors aren't sure exactly why
Having diabetes while pregnant can result in health problems for the mother and baby, and women with chronic disease are more likely to be high-risk. Women who have no known risks may also find themselves with problems related to their pregnancy — such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or incompetent cervix — and become high risk.
Having a high-risk pregnancy does not necessarily mean having a difficult pregnancy or poor result. All pregnant women can and should take steps to take charge of and lower their risk.
Whether you're thinking about getting pregnant or are pregnant now, it's vital to learn about possible risks. Visit Be Smart. Be Well.®, where you can learn what can cause a high-risk pregnancy, gather prenatal health tips and raise your chances of a healthy, happy pregnancy.
Members can log in to their Blue Access for MembersSM account for more healthy pregnancy information.
