Maternity / High-Risk Pregnancy
The term “high-risk pregnancy” can sound frightening, but it primarily means that additional medical attention or monitoring may be required because of factors affecting the mother, pregnancy or baby.
The level and type of care depends on the individual patient.
What the team watches for
There are many possible reasons a pregnancy may require closer monitoring. These can relate to the mother's health, previous pregnancy history, the current pregnancy or findings identified during evaluation. Only a qualified clinician can determine whether a particular pregnancy should be considered high risk.
There are many possible reasons a pregnancy may require closer monitoring. These can relate to the mother's health, previous pregnancy history, the current pregnancy or findings identified during evaluation. Only a qualified clinician can determine whether a particular pregnancy should be considered high risk.
Depending on the clinical situation, the treating team may recommend additional consultations, investigations or follow-up. The purpose is not to create unnecessary worry — it is to identify concerns early and ensure the patient receives appropriate medical attention.
Questions patients ask
No. The term indicates that a pregnancy may require closer medical supervision; it does not by itself mean that a serious complication will occur.
Many high-risk pregnancies are managed successfully with appropriate medical supervision. The care required depends on the reason the pregnancy is considered high risk.
If your pregnancy has been identified as high risk, don't navigate it alone.