A high-risk pregnancy can pose serious health risks for both the mother and baby. Monitoring the pregnancy is important as it lets doctors keep track of the mother’s and the baby’s well-being. Know more about high-risk pregnancy monitoring from our maternal-fetal medicine specialists.
Ways High-Risk Pregnancy is Monitored
Monitoring a high-risk pregnancy helps doctors detect risks early as well as enables them to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. Some of the ways by which a high-risk pregnancy is monitored are mentioned below.
- Frequent Prenatal Appointments: Prenatal appointments are more frequent in a high-risk pregnancy than in a normal pregnancy. In this case, mothers are often referred to maternal-fetal medicine specialists.
- Ultrasound and Imaging Tests: In high-risk pregnancies, ultrasounds are used to track the development of the baby. Not only do these tests monitor fetal growth but also measure the amount of amniotic fluid as well as the position of the baby. This guarantees that there are no abnormalities in the baby’s development. Doppler ultrasounds help measure the blood flow in the umbilical cord and can even be used to check the baby’s health. This is especially useful in pregnancies that involve gestational hypertension, diabetes, or placental problems. Apart from normal ultrasounds, 3D and 4D imaging may also be recommended for detailed view whenever necessary.
- Blood Tests and Screening: With the help of blood tests, doctors can check the health of both the mother and the baby. These tests include screenings for gestational diabetes, anemia, infections as well as genetic conditions. For women who have underlying conditions like thyroid disorders and diabetes, regular blood tests play a key role in keeping the conditions under control. NIPT or Non-invasive Prenatal Testing helps screen for genetic conditions such as Down Syndrome. In a few cases, more tests like amniocentesis are often recommended for more clarity.
- Close Observation for Preterm Labour: Women who have some risk factors like a history of preterm labor, multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets), or infections get closely monitored. Doctors may recommend measures to reduce the chances of early delivery, like progesterone therapy and medications to prevent contractions. At the same time, bed rest is advised.
Conclusion
It’s important to attend all the necessary appointments to ensure a positive outcome for both you and your baby. Early detection will help to manage risks and guarantee a healthy delivery. Schedule your first appointment at our high-risk pregnancy management clinic in Kolkata for more information.