Let’s go over the factors that could increase your risk. I know you may feel overwhelmed, but don’t worry—just because you may have one of these risk factors doesn’t mean we’re doomed to face complications. It simply means we need to be more careful. It’s important to manage these factors, and I will help you every step of the way.

Maternal Age

• Under 18 or over 35 years old: If you’re a teenager or over 35, your risk for certain complications like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or chromosomal abnormalities (such as Down syndrome) may be higher. But don’t get discouraged! With close monitoring, you can still have a healthy pregnancy. I’ll keep a watchful eye on everything to ensure the best outcome.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

• Chronic conditions like diabetes: If you had diabetes before pregnancy, you have an increased risk of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and problems with fetal growth. But don’t worry—I will help you manage your diabetes and monitor your blood sugar closely to keep everything in check.
  
  
• Hypertension (high blood pressure): High blood pressure can lead to serious complications like pre-eclampsia, so I will be checking your blood pressure regularly. If needed, we might need to start you on medication to help control it.
  
  
• Heart or kidney disease: If you have heart or kidney conditions, pregnancy can put additional strain on those organs. We may need the help of a specialist to ensure everything goes smoothly. I’ll make sure we’re on top of this.
• Thyroid disorders: Thyroid issues can lead to preterm birth or developmental delays, but we’ll test your thyroid function and address any problems quickly.
  
  

Multiple Pregnancies (Twins, Triplets, etc.)

• Multiple pregnancies: Expecting twins or more? We need to be extra watchful, as multiple pregnancies increase the likelihood of early labor, low birth weight, and gestational diabetes. I’ll monitor you closely to make sure everything stays on track.

Previous Pregnancy Complications

• Past complications: If you’ve had complications like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, or a premature birth in a previous pregnancy, you might be at higher risk of these occurring again. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the past will dictate the future. We’ll take extra precautions and monitor your pregnancy closely.
  
  

Lifestyle Factors

• Smoking: Smoking is incredibly harmful to both you and your baby. Smoking can lead to preterm labor, low birth weight, and even stillbirth. It’s important to quit, and I’ll be here to help you through the process. Together, we’ll make it happen.
  
  
• Alcohol and drug use: Using substances like alcohol or drugs can cause birth defects, developmental issues, or other complications. If you’ve been using substances, please talk to me openly so we can get you the support and help you need.
  
  
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for gestational diabetes, hypertension, and delivery complications. You don’t need to lose all the weight, but I’ll help you with a healthy diet and exercise plan to reduce risks.

Infections

• Infections like rubella, STIs, UTIs: Any infection should be addressed quickly, as they can lead to preterm birth or other complications. If you suspect an infection, don’t wait—come in for a consultation immediately.
  
  
• Viral infections like Zika or toxoplasmosis: Some viruses can cause serious birth defects. We’ll take all necessary precautions to ensure you and your baby remain safe.

Problems with the Uterus or Placenta

• Placenta previa or placental abruption: Uterine or placental issues like placenta previa or placental abruption can cause bleeding, preterm labor, or distress for the baby. We’ll monitor this carefully to avoid complications.
  
  
• Uterine abnormalities: Some women have structural issues, like fibroids, which can affect pregnancy or delivery. I will monitor your condition closely to ensure the safest outcome possible.

Gestational Conditions

• Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and requires careful management to avoid complications. We’ll keep track of your blood sugar levels together to ensure everything stays in balance.
  
  
• Pre-eclampsia: Pre-eclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage, can be dangerous for both mother and baby. I’ll keep a close watch on your blood pressure and urine to catch any signs early.