4 Signs Your Pregnancy May Need High-Risk Specialist Care

Welcoming a new baby is an exciting journey, but sometimes your body needs extra support along the way. While most pregnancies progress smoothly, some require specialized attention to keep both you and your baby safe.

At WHASN Sunset Valley in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dr. Staci L. McHale, MD, FACOG, MSCP and our experienced team provide compassionate, individualized care. We specialize in comprehensive pregnancy services, including the management of high-risk conditions.

What makes a pregnancy high-risk?

A high-risk pregnancy simply means that you or your baby might need extra monitoring and specialized care during your journey. According to the Cleveland Clinic (2024), about 6% to 8% of all pregnancies in the United States are considered high-risk.

This classification does not mean something will go wrong. It just means we will take extra precautions to ensure a healthy delivery. Factors like maternal age, pre-existing health conditions, or carrying multiples can all play a role.

4 signs your pregnancy may need high-risk specialist care 

The four key signs that your pregnancy may require high-risk specialist care include severe abdominal pain, a sudden decrease in fetal movement, difficulty breathing, and pre-existing chronic health conditions.

1. Severe abdominal pain: While mild cramping can be normal, sharp or persistent pain in your abdomen is not. This symptom requires immediate medical evaluation to rule out serious complications.
2. Decreased fetal movement: You will get to know your baby's usual patterns of kicks and rolls. A sudden halt or significant decrease in these movements is an emergency signal that needs prompt attention.
3. Difficulty breathing: Feeling slightly short of breath is common as your baby grows, but severe breathing struggles are not. According to UC Davis Health (2023), emergency symptoms like difficulty breathing require immediate medical care.
4. Pre-existing chronic conditions: If you manage conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, your pregnancy automatically benefits from specialized oversight. We will work closely with you to manage your medications and monitor your health. 

How we support your pregnancy journey

We understand that hearing your pregnancy is high-risk can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to ease your mind by providing close monitoring, advanced ultrasound imaging, and personalized care plans.

 We focus on building a strong relationship with you so you feel supported at every turn. By catching potential issues early, we can help you navigate your pregnancy safely and comfortably.

You don't have to navigate this special time alone. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or want to discuss your risk factors, we're ready to help. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our team.