5 Essential Tips for Managing a High-Risk Pregnancy

Hearing the term "high risk" during pregnancy can feel scary and uncertain. It sounds heavy, but it essentially means you and your baby just need a little extra care and attention. 

According to the NIH, about 20 million pregnancies worldwide fall into this category. Every day, roughly 800 people face serious complications, so taking these risks seriously is vital for both your health and the health of your newborn.

Many different factors can make a pregnancy high-risk. Sometimes it is about age, like being under 17 or over 35. Other times, it involves lifestyle choices, health issues that pop up while you are pregnant, or medical conditions you already had before. Even if a pregnancy isn't officially labeled "high risk," these factors can still add extra challenges. 

Fortunately, taking the right steps can help manage these risks. Here are five important tips to promote a healthy pregnancy.

1: Partner with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Early

As soon as your pregnancy is labeled high-risk, the most important step you can take is connecting with a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist. Also known as perinatologists, these doctors have years of extra training beyond standard obstetrics to handle complex cases. 

An MFM specialist will perform more detailed ultrasounds and monitor your baby's development much more closely than a general OB. They also coordinate care for underlying conditions like heart disease or gestational diabetes.

By engaging with a specialist early, ideally in your first trimester, you ensure that potential issues are caught before they become serious problems. Don't wait for a crisis to seek this level of expertise. Establishing this relationship early gives you the best chance for proactive, personalized care. 

Having the right expert on your team provides a much-needed layer of safety and peace of mind throughout your entire pregnancy journey.

2: Make Every Prenatal Visit a Priority

In a high-risk pregnancy, prenatal visits are your best defense. These appointments allow your team to track fetal growth and monitor for serious issues like pre-eclampsia. Because high-risk cases often require weekly visits, staying consistent is vital. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, while regular check-ups are essential, you must also contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• Vaginal bleeding or watery discharge.

• Pain, cramping, or burning during urination.

• Decreased fetal activity.

• Severe headaches or vision changes, like blurring.

• Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or fingers.

• Fever, chills, or frequent vomiting.

Never hesitate to call between appointments if something feels wrong. Trusting your instincts and maintaining constant communication with your providers can truly be life-saving for both you and your baby.

3: Lean on Your Nursing Team as a Primary Source of Support

While doctors direct your care, your nursing team is often your most constant point of contact. Nurses spend significant time with patients, allowing them to detect subtle changes in their condition before anyone else. Building a strong relationship with them is a vital safety measure. 

Nurses explain test results in plain language, manage medications, and advocate for you when something feels wrong. The importance of nurse educators is also critical here, as they strengthen the quality of your care. 

According to Spring Arbor University, these skilled professionals prepare graduates with the training required to provide quality care nationwide. Since they are advanced experts, clinical nurse educators develop the resources that inform nursing teams on the latest technologies and standards of care. 

Whether you are on bed rest or in for a check-up, your nurses are your primary companions. Lean on their expertise, ask questions, and trust them to guide you through the process.

4: Prioritize Nutrition, Hydration, and Rest

High-risk pregnancies place heavy physical demands on your body, making nutrition, hydration, and rest essential forms of medical self-management. Work with your care team to develop a meal plan tailored to your needs, whether you are managing gestational diabetes or severe nausea. 

Staying hydrated is also non-negotiable, as dehydration can trigger premature contractions. Equally important is listening to your body’s signals for rest; if your doctor recommends modified activity, follow that guidance strictly. 

To protect your baby’s development, the Cleveland Clinic recommends you avoid:

• High-mercury fish, which can cause brain damage or developmental delays.

• Raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs.

• Processed meats and soft cheeses.

• Unpasteurized juices and alcohol.

By prioritizing iron-rich foods and sufficient protein while avoiding these high-risk items, you provide the best environment for your baby to grow.

5: Build an Emotional Support Network and Monitor Your Mental Health

The psychological weight of a high-risk pregnancy is heavy and often underestimated. Managing anxiety and fear is vital, as chronic stress can trigger physical complications. 

In fact, a 2025 study in Frontiers in Endocrinology found that depression during pregnancy is linked to a 37% higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Because this connection is so consistent, researchers recommend that prenatal care include mental health screenings alongside regular metabolic tests.

To protect your well-being, build a network of calm, practical support. Let friends and family handle chores and errands so you can save your energy for your health. Connecting with a perinatal therapist or support groups can also help you navigate the uncertainty. 

Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive decision that improves outcomes for both you and your baby. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What conditions typically make a pregnancy high-risk?

Common factors include advanced maternal age (35+), pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders, and multiple pregnancies (twins or more). Other factors include a history of preterm birth and fetal abnormalities. Your obstetrician will assess your specific situation and refer you to a specialist if needed.

Is a normal delivery possible with a high-risk pregnancy?

Many women with high-risk pregnancies deliver vaginally and safely. The delivery method depends on your specific condition, how the pregnancy progresses, and your care team's assessment near your due date. Some situations do require a planned cesarean section for the safety of both mother and baby.

How can anxiety be managed during a high-risk pregnancy?

Be honest and open with your doctor about any feelings of anxiety you're experiencing. Perinatal therapists, support groups, mindfulness practices, and keeping a consistent care routine all help. Limiting exposure to alarming online information and focusing on what you can control are also effective strategies for managing fear and emotional stress.

Navigating a high-risk pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but remember that a "high-risk" label is simply a tool to ensure you get the extra care you need. By partnering with specialists and prioritizing your physical and mental well-being, you are taking the most effective steps toward a healthy delivery. 

Lean on your "village" and your nursing team. They are there to carry the weight with you. While the journey may require more vigilance, focus on the progress you make each day.