Are you struggling with the debilitating symptoms of endometriosis? Robotic surgery could be the solution. Here’s what you need to know about the da Vinci® robotic surgery system and how it can give endometriosis sufferers their lives back.
Several factors determine a high-risk pregnancy, from maternal age to underlying health conditions and your lifestyle. Having high-risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t have a healthy pregnancy and delivery, but you can take a few precautions to ensure your health and peace of mind until your due date. Dr. Kelly Morales specializes in high-risk pregnancy and obstetrics services in San Antonio.
Prenatal care is one of the most important factors for a healthy pregnancy and delivery, especially if you’re at a higher risk for complications. Some pregnancies are considered high risk from the onset; however, complications can also develop at any point throughout the pregnancy.
Regular prenatal care is essential to monitor your pregnancy as it develops, and to identify and manage potential complications as early as possible. Every pregnancy is different, but some of the factors that contribute to a higher risk include:
Women in their 30s and 40s can and do have perfectly healthy pregnancies; however, a pregnancy in a woman over age 35 is generally considered high risk. Being too young can also increase the risk of complications for both the mother and baby, however, and teenage pregnancies also tend to be considered high risk.
Some of the potential complications include preeclampsia, a condition that causes high blood pressure in pregnant women. Other possible complications include birth defects, miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and a multiple-birth pregnancy.
Healthy women can develop conditions like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure out of nowhere during a pregnancy, but certain pre-existing health conditions can increase the risk of complications.
If you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions, Dr. Morales helps to identify your individual risk factors and design the best prenatal care plan for your situation.
If you smoke, use alcohol or drugs, eat a poor diet, or lead a sedentary lifestyle, you may be at higher risk for complications during pregnancy. Dr. Morales recommends making lifestyle modifications and adopting a healthier lifestyle as soon as possible, ideally before you become pregnant.
Carrying twins (or more) can increase the risk of preterm labor and other complications.
Certain factors may be beyond the control of you or your OB/GYN team during pregnancy, but there are still things you can do to feel better and lower your risk of complications.
Along with lifestyle factors and the health issues that you already recognize, there may be genetic factors that you’re unaware of that can affect your pregnancy. Review your family history, and discuss any concerns with Dr. Morales as soon as possible.
Obesity can cause a number of health issues and complications during pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy weight before and during your pregnancy is an important component of a healthy pregnancy. Eating a healthy diet and staying physically active are especially important for pregnant women.
Pregnancy is a great time to kick the smoking habit for good! You should also avoid alcohol, and limit your caffeine intake as well.
Depending on your situation, you may need additional lab tests or checkups throughout your pregnancy. Make sure to keep all of your appointments, and follow the doctor’s instructions to the letter.
For more information about protecting your health through a high-risk pregnancy, call our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Morales in San Antonio. You can also send us a message here on our website.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Are you struggling with the debilitating symptoms of endometriosis? Robotic surgery could be the solution. Here’s what you need to know about the da Vinci® robotic surgery system and how it can give endometriosis sufferers their lives back.
If you’re deciding between the birth control pill and an IUD, it can be difficult to know which is right for you. We can help. Learn more about these popular contraceptives and which might be the right choice for you.
Do dripping wet sheets and pajamas ruin your night of rest? We can help! Learn more about menopause, sleep, and how you can manage night sweats.
Spotting between periods is a nuisance — but it could also be a sign of a bigger problem. Learn more about what causes spotting between periods and when there’s cause for concern.
If you’re like most women, you haven’t given much thought to the health of your pelvic floor. But paying attention to these muscles before you give birth is important for your health and your baby.
You probably already know that prenatal yoga can help you have a better pregnancy and easier delivery. But did you know it’s also full of amazing benefits for your baby? Here are some ways that prenatal yoga will benefit your child.