subject: Getting Ready For Childbirth- Understanding Normal And High Risk [print this page] Childbirth is a very special time in your life. The birth of a child is a wonderful and awe-inspiring moment-your own little miracle. And with this new life comes great expectations for your little one as he or she enters the world. Most pregnancies and deliveries go as planned, with few complications-the mother and baby going home within two days. However, sometimes the unexpected happens. University trained physicians are competent in providing routine and high risk obstetrical care in a community setting. From high-risk pregnancies or unanticipated complications during delivery, Potomac Obstetrics & Gynecology is available to help you every step of the way.
High-Risk Pregnancy
Not all pregnancies go smoothly-some women experience what is referred to as a high-risk pregnancy. A pregnancy that is high-risk occurs when there are potential complications that could affect the mother, the baby, or both. High-risk pregnancies require the management of a specialist to help ensure the best outcome for the mother and baby. Some of the reasons that a pregnancy can be considered high risk include:
*Maternal age - one of the most common risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy is the age of the mother-to-be. Women who are under the age of 17 or over 35 when their baby is due are at greater risk of complications than those between their late teens and early 30s. Your risk of a miscarriage and genetic defects further increases after the age of 40.
*Medical conditions that exist before pregnancy - conditions such as high blood pressure, breathing, kidney, or heart problems; diabetes; autoimmune disease; sexually transmitted diseases (STDs); or chronic infections such as HIV can present risks for both the mother and the baby.
*Medical conditions that occur during pregnancy - even if you are healthy when you become pregnant, it is possible to develop or be diagnosed with problems during pregnancy that can affect you and your baby, including preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
*Pregnancy-related issues - often a pregnancy is classified as high risk because of issues that arise form the pregnancy itself and that have little to do with the mother's health, such as premature labor, multiple births (twins), placenta previa, and fetal problems.
Even if you do not have an existing health problem, many doctors might recommend a preconception appointment with your health-care provider to ensure you are as healthy as you can be before you become pregnant.
Cesarean Birth
Also known as a C-section, cesarean birth is surgery to deliver a baby. The baby is taken out through the mother's abdomen, with most resulting in healthy babies and mother. Since a C-section is a major surgery, it does carry risks, as well. Most healthy, pregnant women with no risk factors for problems during labor or delivery have their babies vaginally. Your doctor might recommend a C-section if he or she thinks it is safer for you or your baby than vaginal birth. Some C-sections are planned, but most are done when unexpected problems happy during delivery.
Visit Potomac Obstetrics & Gynecology for more information on pregnancy and to learn more about normal and high-risk childbirth. Being prepared for your childbirth is essential in avoiding complications.
