The miracle of birth does not always come without complications. There are many things that can happen that would classify your condition as a high risk pregnancy. If this happens to you, don't panic too much. Your doctor or doctors know what to do and how to help you have a happy and healthy pregnancy, even when you have to do special things or avoid more activities than other pregnant women. A pregnancy labeled as high risk can be problematic, but it does not mean that you won't have your happy ending.
Anyone over the age of 35 is considered to have a high risk pregnancy. This does not mean that you are going to have any problems if you are over this age, but it does mean the doctor may pay a bit more attention to what is going on in your pregnancy than usual. It could also mean that you get more diagnostic tests covered by your insurance than you would if you were under 35. A high risk pregnancy that is such just because of age is usually non eventful and everything turns out okay. If you fall into this category, take advantage of the extras if you feel they will allow you to relax about your pregnancy.
Someone who has given birth prematurely before will be considered a high risk pregnancy. This is because those that give birth early once have a higher chance of doing so again. If you have one preemie, and no real reason for that happening was found, you may get more specialize care to try to get you to carry full term the second or third time around. If there was a reason you gave birth early, like infection, your chances of the same thing happening again are low, but you may still get the high risk label while pregnant.
Some women can develop gestational diabetes while they are pregnant. This can happen if you are overweight or obese, or if you have insulin resistance. Sometimes, there is no reason. When you get this, your baby could have some complications and will probably be a large baby. You are going to have a special diet and may need insulin while pregnant. You will be considered a high risk pregnancy in this case as well. Make sure you take care of yourself and your baby and you should be just fine. Remember that if your baby grows too large you may have to have a Cesarean section instead of having a vaginal birth.
There are various other conditions that can contribute to you having a high risk pregnancy. When this happens the important thing to do is to not panic. If you like and trust your doctor, you can try to relax and be assured that he or she is going to do all they can to help you have a safe delivery at full term. There are always times when this is not possible, but babies are safer than ever, even when born early. Follow your doctor's instructions whether it be about diet or bed rest, take care of yourself, and think positive thoughts for your baby.