When to call a doctor

When to seek medical care

Most women in their 20s or early 30s have a good chance of a problem-free pregnancy. Teens and women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk for health complications.

Underlying conditions

Underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease will increase your risk of pregnancy complications. Other examples include:

• cancer
• kidney disease
• epilepsy

If you have one of these conditions, ensure that it’s properly monitored and treated throughout your pregnancy. Otherwise, it can lead to miscarriage, poor fetal growth, and birth defects.

Other risk factors

Other factors that can affect an otherwise healthy pregnancy include:

• multiple-birth pregnancies, such as twins or triplets
• infections, including STDs
• being overweight or obese
• anemia

Pregnancy complications

Pregnancy complications can involve the baby’s health, the mother’s health, or both. They can occur during pregnancy or delivery.

Common pregnancy complications include:

• high blood pressure
• gestational diabetes
• preeclampsia
• preterm labor
• miscarriage

Addressing them early can minimize the harms done to the mother or the baby. Know your options when it comes to treating pregnancy complications.