Pregnancy Prep: 4 Tips To Help With A High-Risk Pregnancy
Whatever their cause, high-risk pregnancies are frightening. You may find yourself constantly worried about the new life inside you or bored to tears on bed rest and other restrictions. Though there is no magic formula to whisk away the concerns a high-risk pregnancy brings, there are things you can do to help yourself both physically and emotionally during this difficult time.
Treat Known Issues Early
Women with diabetes, high blood pressure and other health issues have an increased risk of trouble during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is also a big concern for some expecting mothers as it impacts 5-10% of pregnancies. If you know you have a condition that complicates pregnancy, work with your doctor to control the problem before you get pregnant. If you’re already pregnant, talk to your doctor as soon as possible to formulate a management plan early. Controlling any known issues helps keep both mother and baby healthy while reducing worry.
Build the Right Team
Building the right care team is crucial to a successful high-risk pregnancy. Learn exactly what makes your pregnancy a concern and then find specialists who can help you. Deal only with obstetricians, nurse practitioners and ultrasound technicians who come highly recommended and have previous experience dealing with high-risk pregnancies like yours. If you’re not confident in or comfortable with a member of your care team, replace them promptly. Remember that you are in control and have the right to work with the doctors and specialists you trust. It is important to do research and make sure your healthcare team has the proper education and nurse practitioner training.
Bring a Friend
During a high-risk pregnancy, it is important to schedule regular ultrasounds and doctor visits. These visits will most likely be to hospitals as 68% of sonographers work at hospitals. It can be comforting to bring a friend to provide emotional support if you have a hard time visiting hospitals. Keep these appointments and always bring a friend or family member along with you. Hopefully you will receive only good news at these checkups, but it’s good to bring along an emotional support person just in case. This person can serve as a second set of ears and eyes to help make sure you remember any important information you are given. They may also think of questions you don’t.
Ask for Help
Pregnancy is tiring, and a high-risk one even more so. Depending on how you feel and what restrictions your doctor has given you, it may be impossible to maintain your normal daily routine. Ask friends and family for help if you’re struggling to keep your life and household running smoothly. Others may be able to help by babysitting your older kids, doing a load of laundry or bringing over a few covered dish meals. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
High-risk pregnancies are challenging, but not impossible. Manage your health carefully with doctors you trust and remember to use your support system. Do what you can to reduce your stress level and follow your doctor’s orders closely: both you and your baby will feel better for it.
