One of the greatest joys and blessings of life is being a parent. However, when there is a real possibility that you or your child will be harmed, fear sets in. When a pregnancy is classified as high-risk, it means that there could be potential health concerns for the mother or the baby. Additional medical care is nearly always required during a pregnancy that is considered high-risk.
When the mother is provided the essential care she needs during her pregnancy, many high-risk pregnancies end in the delivery of healthy infants. This is where Fetal Medicine Specialists come into play. Given their vital role in examining and diagnosing the health of the fetus, fetal medicine specialists are irreplaceable. Additionally, they offer suitable assistance and medical care to facilitate pregnancy management in order to ensure a healthy delivery.
Understanding High-Risk Pregnancies
When a pregnant woman, or her unborn child, has an elevated risk of difficulties before, during, or after delivery, we call it a high-risk pregnancy. It is necessary to receive treatment from medical specialists, specifically a fetal medicine specialist or a doctor specializing in maternal-fetal medicine.
Factors Leading to A High-Risk Pregnancy
Maternal Age
Women who are younger than 17 or older than 35 are more likely to encounter risk factors during pregnancy and labour. This is due to biological factors associated with age.
Pre-existing Health Conditions
Conditions such as hypertension, Pre-eclampsia, diabetes, heart disorders, or autoimmune diseases can increase the risk factor in pregnancies. The health of both mother and child could be compromised by these factors.
Previous Pregnancy Complications
If a woman has had complications in previous pregnancies such as preterm labour, preeclampsia, or miscarriages, her subsequent pregnancies may be considered high-risk.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Patients with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can receive treatment from obstetricians during pregnancy. A maternal-fetal medicine specialist is needed for situations that are more complex. This includes cases like potential effects on the fetus from syphilis treatment or managing complex medication plans for pregnant women with HIV.
Multiple Pregnancies
Pregnancies with twins, triplets, or more are often regarded as high-risk due to probable problems such as premature labour and preeclampsia.
Lifestyle Factors
Habits such as smoking, alcohol use, and drug use can negatively impact the health of both the mother and the fetus, leading to a high-risk pregnancy.
Fetal Conditions
If there are abnormalities or growth issues detected in the fetus during routine screenings, the pregnancy may be considered high-risk. This necessitates specialized attention from healthcare professionals, such as a fetal medicine specialist.
Genetic Risks
Advancements in technology have made preconception genetic screening tests, such as Non-invasive Prenatal Testing(NIPT), Fetal Anomaly Scan, Nuchal Translucency, etc., more accessible. It’s used to assess carrier risk for certain diseases based on family history or ethnicity. Common genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis or spinal muscular atrophy can also be screened via a blood test.
What Are the Symptoms of High-Risk Pregnancy?
Quick and effective care and oversight throughout a high-risk pregnancy rely on precise and timely identification of symptoms. Frequent symptoms can include persistent or severe abdominal discomfort, regular headaches, problems with sight, and quick weight gain. Additionally, decreased fetal activity, vaginal bleeding, and premature contractions can also indicate a high-risk pregnancy.
Even though the presence of these symptoms does not definitely indicate the presence of an illness, it is not a good idea to ignore them because they may hint at the presence of a disease. You should visit a doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms. An expert in maternal and fetal medicine can give you the care and direction you need at this time.
How To Treat High-Risk Pregnancy
A high-risk pregnancy diagnosis might be shocking, but it’s important to keep in mind that with the right support, most women can expect a safe and healthy delivery.
Here are some steps to manage a high-risk pregnancy:
- Regular Prenatal Care: Regular visits to your health care provider can help monitor your health and your baby’s health.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid risky substances like smoking, alcohol, and illegal drugs.
- Preconception Appointment: Consult your health care provider before becoming pregnant.
- Treatment of Underlying Conditions: If you have a medical condition, your treatment might need to be adjusted.
- Emotional Support: High-risk pregnancies can be stressful. Seek support from loved ones, join a support group, or speak to a mental health professional.
It’s important to keep in mind that the vast majority of women who experience a high-risk pregnancy go on to have healthy newborns, especially if they receive top-notch medical care from experienced and the best high-risk pregnancy doctors.
What Is the Role of a Fetal Medicine Specialist In A High-Risk Pregnancy?
What Is a Fetal Medicine Specialist?
A fetal medicine specialist is a medical expert who specialises in the well-being and treatment of pregnant mothers and their unborn children. Their main responsibility is to check on the fetus regularly, identify any problems, and treat or intervene as needed.
Doctors who specialise in high-risk pregnancies, often known as perinatalists, are Obstetricians who have completed an additional three years of training. A fetal medicine specialist is entrusted with a broad spectrum of duties centred around the healthcare and treatment of expectant mothers and their unborn babies. They perform comprehensive scans and tests, including ultrasounds, amniocentesis, detailed anomaly scans, Nuchal translucency scans, early pregnancy scans, and more. These procedures help track fetal development, identify potential health concerns, and administer necessary treatments or interventions. In certain complex situations, the treatment may involve procedures like fetal therapy or surgery.
Maternal-fetal doctors, while working directly with the mother and fetus, also maintain close collaboration with other healthcare professionals like obstetricians, neonatologists, pediatric surgeons, and genetic counsellors. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care for both the mother and the baby, particularly in high-risk pregnancies.
Why Is It Necessary to See a Fetal Specialist When Dealing With A High-Risk Pregnancy?
There are a number of advantages to working with a professional MFM specialist. The hazards associated with high-risk pregnancies can be mitigated thanks to their ability to make an accurate diagnosis and effectively treat problems. In addition, they can give parents-to-be comprehensive advice and information to aid in their pregnancy and the development of their child.
Why Ankuran Clinic is the Best Place to Find a Fetal Medicine Specialist
Ankuran Clinic, located in Sector V, Kolkata, is a top ivf centre offering a comprehensive range of assisted reproductive techniques.
The clinic is renowned for its dedicated fetal medicine team that provides personalized, gentle care to its patients. Their services extend beyond fertility treatments and include a wide range of specialities, making it a one-stop solution for various healthcare needs.
In the realm of fetal medicine, Ankuran Clinic stands out for its commitment to providing quality pre-natal as well as post-natal care and treatment. The team of highly skilled doctors at the Ankuran Clinic is well-prepared to manage high-risk pregnancies. They strive to get most favorable outcomes for both the expectant mother and the baby. With its commitment to patient care and advanced equipment, Ankuran Clinic stands out as a leading healthcare provider.
Bottom Line
When it comes to dealing with high-risk pregnancies and ensuring the best possible results, fetal medicine specialists play a pivotal role. Professional assistance is essential for successfully managing high-risk pregnancies despite their difficulties. In order to ensure a secure and healthy pregnancy experience, it is recommended to get guidance from a qualified maternal fetal doctor who can address your specific needs.
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