Pregnancy risk factors include consuming illegal substances, drinking alcohol, and smoking cigarettes. Obstetrical health issues such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid disease, blood or heart conditions, poorly controlled asthma, and infections can also raise pregnancy risks.

A high-risk pregnancy is one where the likelihood of complications for both the mother and the fetus is higher than usual. These risks may stem from the pregnancy itself or from pre-existing conditions in the mother, such as lupus, diabetes, or cancer. Health concerns for the mother and/or her unborn child can arise from pre-existing medical issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, sexually transmitted infections, kidney diseases, autoimmune diseases, and thyroid diseases.

Fortunately, many women with high-risk pregnancies can still have healthy babies and successful outcomes with frequent and early prenatal care. After receiving a high-risk pregnancy diagnosis, lifestyle changes may be necessary, so it's essential to have a solid support network and a plan for accessing the treatment you need.