Issues that signify a high-risk pregnancy

You’ve likely heard about certain factors that most obstetricians would consider cause for concern or at least close monitoring during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have given birth multiple times before, and especially if you are age 35 or older, your Delaware medical team will want to keep a close watch on both yours and your baby’s health.

Having a baby can be an exciting yet challenging time in life. It’s helpful to learn as much as you can about what to expect, although many issues can arise unexpectedly, which is why it’s critical to have a competent, experienced medical team available to assist you. Sadly, if your obstetrician or midwife disregards certain symptoms or is otherwise negligent, you or your child (or both) could suffer serious, even life-threatening injuries.

High-risk issues that require close monitoring

The following list includes information that is by no means extensive. However, it does provide a brief overview of some of the most common alert factors that would prompt your medical team to consider your pregnancy high-risk for complications: 

• Being older is not the only maternal age risk factor in pregnancy. If you are age 18 or under, your medical team knows you are also at a greater risk for complications during pregnancy, labor or delivery. 
• High blood pressure is cause for concern if you are pregnant. Whether you had this condition before becoming pregnant or its onset occurs during your second or third trimester, it definitely places you and your baby in a high-risk category. 
• If you are diabetic, your medical team will be providing specialized care for you and your child. Even if you are not usually diabetic, but develop it as a gestational condition, you may need to follow medical instructions concerning diet or insulin injections.
• Vaginal bleeding, amniotic waters leaking, a placental tear and other problems typically occur more suddenly and are equally concerning regarding your and your baby’s safety and good health.

There are undoubtedly some issues that may arise in pregnancy that may cause you alarm but are not suggestive of a serious problem. For instance, you may notice a bit of ankle swelling as your baby grows and you gain weight, especially if you’re on your feet a lot during the day. However, it’s important to mention such symptoms to your doctor or midwife because swelling can also be a sign of a more serious problem.

Many maternal and infant injuries are preventable

Medical workers who are experienced in prenatal care and childbirth understand that they must stay alert and pay close attention to your and your baby’s vital signs and progress during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and during after care as well. Many times, the swift action of a doctor, nurse or other team member can help avert or quickly overcome a serious problem.

When a Delaware mother or child suffers injury due to medical negligence, it often leads to litigation. The state allows those who have suffered to seek financial accountability for damages against any and all parties whose negligence caused an injury to occur.