A high-risk pregnancy is one in which the mother, her fetus, or both are at higher risk for health problems during pregnancy or labor than in a typical pregnancy.
For example, women who have chronic health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, who become pregnant may be considered to have high-risk pregnancies - even if the condition is well controlled. Other factors, such as infections, injuries, and disorders of pregnancy, can also put a pregnancy at high risk.
Women whose pregnancies are considered high risk may need specialized care or treatment to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. The specific type of care needed will depend on the specific risk factors, as well as the overall health of the mother and the fetus.
Just because a pregnancy is considered high risk does not mean that a problem will occur.
