High-risk pregnancy

A pregnancy can be classified as high risk for a variety of reasons, from being pregnant with multiples, having a family history of certain diseases or conditions or simply because of your age (younger than 18 or older than 35). Certain diagnostic tests can help monitor any potential developing conditions affecting you or the fetus, allowing the necessary treatment to be incorporated into your care plan.

Our team performs:

• Amniocentesis — During a prenatal visit, your doctor may encourage you to have an amniocentesis, a test used to diagnose specific birth and genetic abnormalities. Using a thin needle, we enter through your belly and uterus into the amniotic sac and remove one ounce of fluid for lab evaluation. Results are usually available within one to two weeks.
• Sonograms — A sonogram is an image produced by an ultrasound (sound waves). This test helps your doctor evaluate your baby's organs for infections, damage or disease. Depending on your condition, your doctor may order a sonogram for you on a weekly or monthly basis.

Some conditions, like diabetes, hypertension and anemia, are relatively common and may not require more than a visit or two. Other high-risk pregnancy conditions, like placenta previa, intrauterine growth restriction and fetal heart conditions, may require more extensive follow-up. Regardless of the path your pregnancy takes, our specially trained maternal-fetal physicians take the time to answer all of your questions.

While this can be an anxiety-filled time, we have made a habit of making sure you leave our office with a better understanding of your pregnancy.

Some pregnancies are at an increased risk for various medical conditions. Our specialists take the time to explain the possible complications and offer the ability to screen for them. Not every patient or condition is a candidate for genetic screening, including some women with high-risk pregnancies. Some of the tests we can perform are markers for first-trimester Down syndrome, alpha-fetoprotein and chromosomal anomalies.

Many women struggle to become pregnant. In some cases, our team can trace it to genetics or medical conditions. Other times, it can involve lifestyle changes that improve your chances of conceiving. Regardless, we can help you develop a plan to give you the best possible chance of success. Our specialists also provide counseling for moms-to-be who are at increased risk for genetic or medical abnormalities.