Managing a high-risk pregnancy

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is a pregnancy in which the mother, the baby or both have an increased chance of complications. This may mean that more frequent appointments, additional tests or care from several specialists are needed. Being in a higher-risk group does not mean that complications will necessarily occur.

Factors that may increase pregnancy risk include:

• maternal age of 35 or above, considered alongside other health factors,
• a multiple pregnancy, such as twins or triplets,
• an existing condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or lupus,
• complications in a previous pregnancy,
• conditions that develop during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes, pregnancy-related hypertension or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy,
• being underweight or having excess body weight before pregnancy,
• smoking, alcohol use or recreational drug use.

Your obstetrician assesses these factors together with your medical history and test results to determine the level of care you need.

How does prenatal care change in a high-risk pregnancy?

At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk, the plan for high-risk pregnancy care is tailored to the reason for the increased risk. Your doctor may recommend more frequent appointments, additional ultrasound scans or laboratory tests, and consultations with other specialists.

The aim is to monitor your health and your baby's development and identify changes that require treatment or further assessment. Your doctor also discusses the timing and place of birth and whether a particular delivery method may be appropriate. Some situations require referral for specialist hospital care.

How can I support my health and my baby's health?

If you have a chronic condition or previous pregnancy complications, arrange a preconception consultation when possible. This provides an opportunity to review your treatment, discuss any necessary investigations and plan care before you become pregnant. If you are already pregnant, arrange an appointment early.

Helpful steps include:

• attending scheduled antenatal appointments and recommended tests,
• following an individual plan for nutrition and appropriate weight gain,
• remaining physically active within the limits recommended by your doctor,
• taking folic acid and other supplements as advised,
• avoiding alcohol when planning a pregnancy and during pregnancy, and seeking support to stop smoking or using recreational drugs,
• discussing anxiety, stress or other emotional concerns with your care team.

Do not stop or change prescribed medicines on your own. Discuss their use with the doctor managing your pregnancy and any relevant specialist.

Contact your healthcare team if you have concerns about your symptoms or your baby's wellbeing. The timing of an assessment depends on the symptoms; some concerns need urgent medical attention.

High-risk pregnancy care in Gdańsk – Dr Marek Korożan

At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre, consultations and monitoring for high-risk pregnancies are provided by Dr Marek Korożan. Information about routine appointments is available on our pregnancy management and prenatal care page.

Choose an appointment using the calendar below or contact our reception team: call +48 58 719 10 25 or email kontakt@tartaczna2.pl.