Pregnancy after a miscarriage or stillbirth is both a hopeful and complicated experience. While many people go on to have healthy pregnancies after these types of loss, pregnancy can feel very different after experiencing a pregnancy loss. The grief does not simply disappear when a new pregnancy begins, and it is completely normal to carry a…
Cervical insufficiency is a condition where the cervix begins to open too early during pregnancy, sometimes without any noticeable contractions or pain. It typically occurs in the second trimester and can lead to preterm birth or pregnancy loss if it is not identified and managed in time. The condition is also sometimes referred to as…
Prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing are used during pregnancy to check whether a baby may have certain genetic or chromosomal conditions. These tests are offered in the first and second trimesters and range from simple blood draws to more involved procedures. Knowing what each test does and when it is offered can help you…
Itching is common during pregnancy and is usually harmless. Most of the time, it is caused by normal skin stretching, dryness, or hormonal changes. But there is one condition where itching serves as an important warning sign: intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, often shortened to cholestasis. This is a liver condition that develops when bile flow…
First trimester bleeding is any vaginal bleeding that occurs during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. It is relatively common, and in many cases, it does not mean something is wrong. However, because bleeding can sometimes signal a problem that requires prompt medical attention, it is important to understand the possible causes, know what your…
How Does Gestational Diabetes Develop? Insulin is the hormone that moves sugar from your bloodstream into your cells for energy. During pregnancy, your body naturally becomes more insulin resistant so that extra glucose is available to support your baby’s growth. For many women, the pancreas compensates by producing more insulin. When it cannot keep up,…
Non-invasive prenatal testing, commonly called NIPT, is a blood test that screens for certain chromosomal conditions during pregnancy. It analyzes small fragments of DNA from the placenta circulating in the pregnant patient’s bloodstream, often referred to as cell-free DNA. Because it only requires a standard blood draw, NIPT carries none of the miscarriage risk associated…
The thyroid is a small gland in your neck that helps regulate energy, metabolism, heart function, and brain activity. During pregnancy, thyroid hormone also plays a direct role in fetal growth and development, especially in the first trimester, when your baby relies heavily on your hormone supply. When thyroid levels are too high or too…
Autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. During pregnancy, the immune system naturally shifts to support the developing baby. That shift can improve some autoimmune symptoms, but it can also trigger flares or make certain conditions harder to manage. The good…
For many women, pregnancy is one of life’s most joyful and transformative experiences. Yet it can also bring uncertainty and concern, particularly if health complications are present. Some women begin pregnancy with chronic medical conditions, while others develop issues along the way. A pregnancy may also be considered higher risk because of maternal age, reproductive…
Genetic testing has become one of the most powerful tools in modern obstetrics. These tests provide valuable information about your baby’s development and can help identify potential risks early, allowing for more informed decisions and better preparation. For women over the age of 35, those with family histories of genetic conditions, or patients with high-risk…
Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting and transformative times in your life. But if your pregnancy is considered high risk, it is natural to feel more cautious about your health and your baby’s well-being. A high-risk pregnancy means that you or your baby are more likely to face complications, so your care requires…
10 Risk Factors for High-Risk Pregnancy Pregnancy is often described as one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life, filled with joy and anticipation. For many, the journey is straightforward and without complication. For others, however, certain medical conditions, lifestyle factors, or pregnancy-related issues can increase the chances of complications. This is what…
Diabetes is becoming increasingly common in the United States, and more women are entering pregnancy with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy, is also on the rise, now affecting up to 14 percent of all pregnancies. While diabetes can increase the risk of complications for both mother and…
Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta lies low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervix. The cervix is the opening of the uterus that allows the baby to pass through during delivery. If the placenta blocks this opening, it can interfere with a safe vaginal birth and may cause…
Pregnancy is an exciting and life-changing time, but it can also bring questions and concerns—especially if your provider tells you that your pregnancy is considered “high-risk.” Hearing that term can feel overwhelming. You may have concerns about your health, your baby’s development, and what to expect moving forward. A high-risk pregnancy simply means that you…
Every pregnancy carries some degree of risk. For most women, the journey is uncomplicated, but for others, certain health conditions can raise the likelihood of complications. While some risks cannot be completely avoided, many can be reduced with the right preparation and care before conception. Addressing maternal health concerns before pregnancy can significantly improve the…
If you’re managing a high-risk pregnancy, you’re probably paying close attention to how you are feeling day to day. When you’re already facing elevated health risks, even minor symptoms can raise important questions. Should you call your provider? Is this normal? Am I overreacting? Why High-Risk Pregnancies Need Closer Monitoring Every pregnancy is unique, but…
If you’re pregnant and managing a chronic health condition, chances are you’re taking at least one medication. But pregnancy often brings up new questions and concerns, especially when you’re considered high risk. Is your medication safe for the baby? Should you stop taking it? Could it be replaced with something else? Whether you’re dealing with…
Being diagnosed with high blood pressure doesn’t mean you can’t have a healthy pregnancy. Your pregnancy will require more monitoring and care, potentially from a specialist, but safe outcomes for both you and your baby are absolutely possible with the right support. What Is High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy? Blood pressure is a measure of…
For women who may be at risk for a high-risk pregnancy, planning ahead can make a world of difference. Whether you have a chronic medical condition, a family history of pregnancy complications, or simply want to be proactive about your reproductive health, preconception counseling is an essential first step. What Is a High-Risk Pregnancy? A…
Every expectant parent hopes for a smooth pregnancy and a healthy baby. But sometimes, routine prenatal tests reveal unexpected concerns, with one of the most serious being a congenital heart defect. Learning that your baby may have a heart problem can be overwhelming. Still, thanks to modern diagnostic tools and early detection, families today are…
Navigating pregnancy while managing an autoimmune condition presents unique challenges and considerations. Autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, can impact both maternal and fetal health. Understanding these effects and the importance of specialized care is crucial for expectant mothers with such conditions. Common Autoimmune Conditions Affecting Pregnancy Systemic Lupus…
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, but for some expectant parents, it can come with added complexities and concerns. High-risk pregnancies—characterized by factors such as advanced maternal age, a family history of genetic conditions, or known risk factors—require specialized care to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby. Genetic counseling plays a crucial role…
Dealing with a high-risk pregnancy can add another level of worry and concern to expectant parents. A high-risk pregnancy generally involves receiving more care from your prenatal team, additional doctor visits, extra scans and other tests. All of this is done to ensure that your pregnancy is progressing well. If you have a high-risk pregnancy,…
Pregnancy is an exciting journey that at times can bring forth a few worries and concerns. When a pregnancy is classified as high-risk, it is not uncommon for these worries and concerns to get magnified. So finding ways to manage the extra stress and anxiety is an important part of staying healthy over the course…