<p>Motherhood is one of the most beautiful experiences in a woman’s life. The health of both the mother and the foetus is of paramount importance and regular checkups and good prenatal care can ensure a safe and healthy delivery without complications. <br /><br /></p>.<p>However, a preexisting disease or unforeseen illness can complicate the pregnancy, which can put the mother or the child at risk. A pregnancy is considered to be of high risk when there are potential complications that could hamper the health of the mother, the baby or both. Here are certain common factors:<br /><br />Advanced maternal age: In the last decades, there has been a trend towards deferred childbearing. It is important to understand that the pregnancy risks are higher for mothers aged 35 and older.<br /><br />Lifestyle choices: Smoking, alcohol and using illegal drugs can put a pregnancy at risk.<br /><br />Medical history: A prior C-section, low birth weight baby or preterm birth (birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy) might increase the risk in subsequent pregnancies. Other risk factors include a family history of genetic conditions, a history of pregnancy loss or the death of a baby shortly after birth.<br /><br />Underlying conditions: Chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease and epilepsy increase pregnancy risks. A blood condition, such as anaemia, an infection or an underlying mental health condition can also increase pregnancy risks.<br /><br />Pregnancy-related issues: Issues that arise during pregnancy itself, irrespective of the mother’s health, could often lead to complications. These include premature labour, multiple pregnancies and placenta previa.<br /><br />So, here is what you can do to promote a healthy pregnancy:<br /><br />Eat a healthy diet: During pregnancy, the mother needs more folic acid, calcium, iron and other essential nutrients. A daily prenatal vitamin can help fill any gaps. <br /><br />Gain weight wisely: Gaining the right amount of weight supports the baby’s health and makes it easier to shed the extra pounds after delivery. <br /><br />Avoid risky substances: It is advisable to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.<br /><br />(The author is consultant gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)</p>
<p>Motherhood is one of the most beautiful experiences in a woman’s life. The health of both the mother and the foetus is of paramount importance and regular checkups and good prenatal care can ensure a safe and healthy delivery without complications. <br /><br /></p>.<p>However, a preexisting disease or unforeseen illness can complicate the pregnancy, which can put the mother or the child at risk. A pregnancy is considered to be of high risk when there are potential complications that could hamper the health of the mother, the baby or both. Here are certain common factors:<br /><br />Advanced maternal age: In the last decades, there has been a trend towards deferred childbearing. It is important to understand that the pregnancy risks are higher for mothers aged 35 and older.<br /><br />Lifestyle choices: Smoking, alcohol and using illegal drugs can put a pregnancy at risk.<br /><br />Medical history: A prior C-section, low birth weight baby or preterm birth (birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy) might increase the risk in subsequent pregnancies. Other risk factors include a family history of genetic conditions, a history of pregnancy loss or the death of a baby shortly after birth.<br /><br />Underlying conditions: Chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease and epilepsy increase pregnancy risks. A blood condition, such as anaemia, an infection or an underlying mental health condition can also increase pregnancy risks.<br /><br />Pregnancy-related issues: Issues that arise during pregnancy itself, irrespective of the mother’s health, could often lead to complications. These include premature labour, multiple pregnancies and placenta previa.<br /><br />So, here is what you can do to promote a healthy pregnancy:<br /><br />Eat a healthy diet: During pregnancy, the mother needs more folic acid, calcium, iron and other essential nutrients. A daily prenatal vitamin can help fill any gaps. <br /><br />Gain weight wisely: Gaining the right amount of weight supports the baby’s health and makes it easier to shed the extra pounds after delivery. <br /><br />Avoid risky substances: It is advisable to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.<br /><br />(The author is consultant gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)</p>
