What Classifies a High-Risk Pregnancy?

The term "high-risk pregnancy" describes a case where a pregnant woman has one or more factors that could put her or the fetus at risk for health problems. In general, a pregnancy may be considered high risk if the pregnant woman:

• is 35 years old or older
• is younger than 16 years old
• is underweight or overweight prior to becoming pregnant
• is pregnant with more than one fetus
• has gestational diabetes
• has gone into premature labor
• has had a premature baby
• has had a baby with a birth defect, especially heart or genetic problems
• has high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, lupus, asthma, a seizure disorder, or another longstanding medical problem

You may be referred to the Methodist Perinatal Center if your pregnancy is determined to be high-risk.