Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, and at Woodlands OBGYN Associates, our expert team is dedicated to ensuring the safety and health of both mother and baby, especially in high-risk cases. With decades of experience, our board-certified OB-GYNs provide personalized care, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and collaborating with maternal-fetal specialists when needed. Whether due to maternal health conditions, advanced age, or other factors, we offer compassionate support and evidence-based solutions to guide you through every step of your pregnancy. Families in The Woodlands trust us for our proven commitment to exceptional outcomes and comprehensive care.
Types of high-risk pregnancies we manage
There are numerous maternal issues present prior to pregnancy that may impact pregnancy management and delivery plans. In addition, there are countless situations that may develop during pregnancy that change prenatal care and delivery plans.
Some of the multiple high-risk issues we routinely manage include:
- Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
- Gestational Diabetes
- Chronic Hypertension
- Preeclampsia
- Twin Pregnancies
- IVF Pregnancies
- Advanced Maternal Age
- Preterm Labor
- Preterm Rupture of Membranes
- Placental and Amniotic Fluid Problems
- Fetal Growth Issues
- History of Pregnancy Loss
- History of Preterm Delivery
- Preexisting Maternal Cardiac, Pulmonary, or Autoimmune Concerns
Depending on your individual situation we may send you to consult with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist in conjunction with your care at Woodlands OBGYN Associates.
You may also need to see other specialists such as a cardiologist, pulmonary specialist, or reproductive endocrinologist.
Your care will be individualized and tailored to meet the needs of you and your baby!
Can I have a VBAC (Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section)?
At Woodland OBGYN Associates we do not offer VBAC as an option to our patients with a prior cesarean section. If you have had a prior Cesarean Section you will be scheduled for a repeat Cesarean Section.
Why is Having Multiples Considered a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Being pregnant with multiples can be exciting and also a little stressful. Twins and other multiples don't guarantee that your pregnancy will be complicated. It simply means you may face a higher risk of preterm labor, high blood pressure, and other conditions that could affect your health or your baby's health. For this reason, your doctor may order certain tests and may schedule more frequent checkups.
What Can I Expect During My High-Risk Pregnancy?
Having a high-risk pregnancy, you can expect to be followed more closely by your medical care team. This way, any issues that may arise are caught and addressed very quickly. You may be scheduled for more appointments than you would be otherwise, and you might also be scheduled for various special tests, such as ultrasound imaging to observe the fetus, uterus, or cervix. The types of testing that may occur during a high-risk pregnancy will relate to your high-risk definition. Additionally, you will undergo all of the usually recommended tests, such as urinalysis, blood tests, and fetal heart rate. Your doctor will discuss your appointment frequency and tests with you in detail as they relate to your pregnancy, potential risks, and your overall health.
What Can I Do to Manage My High-Risk Pregnancy?
Even if your pregnancy risks are only slightly elevated from the norm, just the classification as high-risk can create some stress. Knowing how to support your pregnancy can alleviate some of this. General recommendations for managing a high-risk pregnancy include:
- Stay informed. If your doctor tells you that your pregnancy will be treated as high-risk, get to know what you can about the definition. For example, if you're pregnant with multiples, you can ask your doctor specific questions related to this. You can also learn about your high-risk pregnancy online, but take care to read information only from reputable organizations.
- Gather support. In addition to maintaining an open line of communication with your doctor and medical care team, it can be immensely helpful to also have supportive friends and family. Depending on your condition, you may need to make certain changes to your lifestyle, such as scaling back how much you do on a daily basis. Supportive friends and family may be needed to pick up the slack. For emotional support, consider joining a high-risk pregnancy support group online or in your local area.
- Take excellent care of yourself. Prioritizing self-care can mean a healthier pregnancy and better outcomes, both for you and your baby. Self-care may include taking daily walks as approved by your care team, eating a nutrient-dense diet, and staying adequately hydrated. It may also include setting a sleep schedule for yourself, taking time to rest as you need, and avoiding stressful situations.
- Listen to your body. Throughout your pregnancy, your body can be your best guide. Tuning in to waning energy levels, discomforts, hunger, and other sensations not only increases your connection with yourself and your baby but also quickly alerts you to something that doesn't feel normal. If a sensation doesn't feel quite right, contact your OBGYN.
How Does Woodlands OBGYN Monitor High-Risk Pregnancies Differently?
At Woodlands OBGYN Associates, we approach high-risk pregnancies with heightened attention to detail and advanced care strategies. This includes more frequent prenatal visits, in-depth ultrasounds, and specialized diagnostic tests tailored to your unique health needs. Our team works closely with maternal-fetal medicine specialists and uses the latest technology to monitor both maternal and fetal health, ensuring early detection and management of potential complications. By prioritizing proactive care and clear communication, we strive to create a safe and supportive environment for you and your baby.
Are There Specific Precautions I Should Take with a High-Risk Pregnancy?
Managing a high-risk pregnancy often requires additional precautions to support the health of both mother and baby. Your doctor may recommend following a nutrient-rich diet, adhering to a tailored exercise plan, and avoiding activities that could pose risks. Stress management and adequate rest are also essential. Depending on your individual risk factors, medications or specific medical interventions may be prescribed. Regular prenatal visits and open communication with our team are vital to ensure your care plan is optimized for your needs.
Can I Still Have a Natural Delivery with a High-Risk Pregnancy?
A natural delivery is still possible for many women with high-risk pregnancies, depending on the specific circumstances and potential complications. At Woodlands OBGYN Associates, our goal is to support the safest delivery method for you and your baby. In some cases, close monitoring and timely interventions during labor can help facilitate a vaginal delivery. However, if your health or the baby’s safety is at risk, a cesarean section may be recommended. Your doctor will discuss your options and prioritize a delivery plan that aligns with your health and birthing preferences.
The Role of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists in High-Risk Pregnancy
Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists are vital in managing high-risk pregnancies by providing advanced expertise and specialized care. These physicians focus on diagnosing and treating complex conditions that may arise during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or fetal growth restrictions. At Woodlands OBGYN Associates, we collaborate closely with MFM specialists to ensure comprehensive monitoring and tailored care plans for both mother and baby. This partnership allows us to access cutting-edge diagnostic tools, targeted interventions, and expert guidance, ensuring the best possible outcomes for even the most challenging pregnancies.
Why Choose Us for High-Risk Pregnancy Care?
Woodlands OBGYN Associates is a trusted leader in providing expert care for high-risk pregnancies. Our board-certified OB-GYNs have extensive experience managing complex pregnancies and are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and monitoring tools. We take a personalized approach, tailoring each care plan to the unique needs of the mother and baby while maintaining clear communication and compassionate support throughout the journey. Our collaborative partnerships with maternal-fetal medicine specialists ensure access to the most advanced treatments and resources.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Interested in learning more about how Woodland OBGYN can assist with your High-Risk Pregnancy? Give us a call at 281.364.9898 to schedule your consultation today with one of our high risk pregnancy doctors in The Woodlands, Texas.
