High-risk pregnancy management
High-risk pregnancy management at TidalHealth is designed for those who may face a greater chance of complications during pregnancy for themselves, their baby or both. Our goal is to identify risk factors early, provide close monitoring and tailor care to help support the best possible outcomes for you and your baby.
Common reasons for high-risk care include chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or autoimmune disorders. Other situations may be related to pregnancy itself, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, multiple pregnancies, advanced maternal age, previous pregnancy complications or concerns found during screening or ultrasound.
What to Expect from TidalHealth
Your care is coordinated by a specialized team that may include maternal-fetal medicine specialists, obstetricians, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, genetic counselors, maternal-fetal nurses and other health professionals. With high-risk pregnancy management, you can expect:
- More frequent prenatal visits
- Targeted ultrasounds and fetal monitoring, including nonstress tests and biophysical profiles
- Lab monitoring and medication adjustments when needed
An individualized birth plan based on your unique needs - Support for lifestyle and medication management and procedures when necessary, such as cervical cerclage or early delivery planning
Why Early and Specialized Care Matters
Early, specialized care can help reduce preventable complications, detect concerns sooner and provide added support as you prepare for delivery and recovery. We create care plans centered on your family, clearly explaining each step and supporting your emotional wellbeing throughout pregnancy.
At TidalHealth, we also offer services that support the whole person, not just the medical condition. These may include nutrition counseling, diabetes education and mental health resources as part of your personalized care.
What makes a pregnancy high-risk?
A pregnancy is considered high-risk when there is a greater chance of health problems for you, your baby or your newborn. This may be related to existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease, pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia or preterm labor, carrying more than one baby, advanced maternal age or abnormal screening results.
How will my care be different from a low-risk pregnancy?
With high-risk pregnancy management at TidalHealth, you will usually have more frequent visits and testing. Care may include additional ultrasounds, fetal monitoring such as nonstress tests or biophysical profiles, lab work, medication adjustments and visits with specialists. Your care and birth plan will be tailored to you, and our team will explain when to seek urgent care.
Will I be able to have a vaginal birth?
Many people with high-risk pregnancies can have vaginal births. Your delivery plan depends on your condition, how your pregnancy progresses, your baby’s health and your medical history. Our team will discuss whether labor or a planned cesarean delivery is safest for you and your baby.
How often will I need ultrasounds and fetal monitoring?
The frequency of monitoring depends on the reason for high-risk care. Some people need weekly or twice-weekly nonstress tests and growth ultrasounds, while others need fewer additional tests. Your specialist will explain and adjust your plan as needed.
Are there medications I cannot take during a high-risk pregnancy?
Some medications are not safe during pregnancy, and others may need to be adjusted. Do not stop or start medications without talking to your care team. We will carefully review and manage your medications to protect you and your baby.
What symptoms mean I should call or go to the hospital?
Seek care right away for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or sudden abdominal pain, decreased fetal movement, severe headaches, vision changes, sudden swelling of the hands or face, chest pain, shortness of breath or fever with abdominal pain. Your care team will also review warning signs specific to your condition.
How will high-risk care affect my postpartum period?
Some high-risk conditions require extra monitoring after delivery, such as blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, medication changes and mental health support. If your baby may need special care, our neonatal team will be involved before delivery. You will receive a clear follow-up plan before leaving the hospital.
What support services are available?
TidalHealth offers support services that may include nutrition counseling, diabetes education, mental health support, social work, lactation consultation and genetic counseling. Our team can also help connect you with community resources and support programs.
