What are the Warning Signs of High-Risk Pregnancy? What Nigerian Mothers Need to Know

Introduction

Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation. However, for some mothers, certain health conditions can make pregnancy more challenging and require extra attention from healthcare providers. A high-risk pregnancy means that either you or your baby faces a higher chance of health complications before, during, or after delivery. The good news is that with proper care and early detection, most complications can be managed successfully, and many high-risk pregnancies result in healthy mothers and healthy babies.

Understanding the warning signs of pregnancy complications can truly save lives. Many problems are preventable when mothers know what to watch for and seek medical help promptly.

3 Important Facts About High-Risk Pregnancy

1. Most High-Risk Pregnancies Have Positive Outcomes Being told your pregnancy is high-risk can be frightening, but remember that only 6-8% of all pregnancies are classified as high-risk, and with proper medical care, most of these mothers and babies do very well. Having a high-risk pregnancy does not mean something bad will definitely happen - it simply means you need closer monitoring.

2. Age Matters More Than You Think Pregnancy before age 17 or after age 35 automatically increases your risk of complications. Teenage mothers face higher risks of high blood pressure and anemia, while first-time mothers over 35 have increased chances of gestational diabetes and delivery complications. However, with proper prenatal care, women of all ages can have healthy pregnancies.

3. About 15% of All Pregnant Women Will Face Life-Threatening Complications While this number may seem alarming, it highlights why regular antenatal visits are so important. These complications, when caught early, can often be treated before they become dangerous. This is why attending all your scheduled clinic appointments is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your baby.

What Do Patients Need to Know?

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention

If you experience any of these symptoms during pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital right away:

Severe bleeding or heavy discharge - This could signal problems with the placenta or other serious complications, especially in the third trimester.

Persistent severe headaches or blurred vision - These are major warning signs of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), which is responsible for about 16% of maternal deaths globally and is a leading cause of complications in Nigeria.

Severe abdominal pain or cramping - While mild discomfort is normal, intense pain could indicate serious problems like placental separation, ectopic pregnancy, or labor complications.

Baby moving less than usual or no movement - If you notice your baby is not moving as much as previously, this requires immediate evaluation.

Difficulty breathing or chest pain - This could indicate heart problems, infection, or other serious conditions.

Continuous vomiting - While morning sickness is common, severe, persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration and other complications.

Fever or chills - These may signal an infection that needs prompt treatment.

Sudden swelling of face, hands, or feet - While some swelling is normal, sudden or severe swelling, especially in your face, can be a sign of preeclampsia.

Common Conditions That Create High-Risk Pregnancies

Pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, malaria, kidney disease, or sickle cell disease can complicate pregnancy. If you have any chronic health condition, inform your healthcare provider early and attend all antenatal appointments.

Pregnancy-related conditions including gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, placenta problems, or carrying twins or triplets require special monitoring.

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, or drug use significantly increase risks to both mother and baby.

What You Can Do

• Attend all antenatal care appointments - Regular checkups allow healthcare providers to detect problems early when they are easier to treat.

• Know your body - Pay attention to how you feel and report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider, even if you are not sure they are serious.

• Eat nutritious foods - Good nutrition helps prevent complications like anemia, which affects many Nigerian mothers.

• Take your medications and supplements - If your healthcare provider prescribes iron tablets, anti-malaria medications, or other treatments, take them as directed.

• Plan for delivery - Know where you will deliver and how you will get there, especially if complications arise. Having a plan can save precious time in an emergency.

• Avoid traditional birth attendants for high-risk pregnancies - While traditional birth attendants play a role in many communities, they typically lack the equipment and training to handle serious complications. If your pregnancy is high-risk, deliver at a health facility with skilled professionals and emergency equipment.

If You Could Share One Thing

If I could share one thing with all the people of Nigeria, it would be this: Trust your instincts and never hesitate to seek medical help.

Too many Nigerian mothers delay seeking care because of cost concerns, distance to health facilities, or cultural beliefs. But when it comes to pregnancy complications, time is life. Heavy bleeding can kill a healthy woman within hours. Preeclampsia can lead to seizures, stroke, and death if not treated. Infections can quickly become life-threatening.

If something does not feel right during your pregnancy, it probably is not right. Do not wait. Do not be embarrassed. Do not worry about what others might think. Your life and your baby's life are too precious. Seek help immediately from a trained healthcare provider at a clinic or hospital. Early treatment can make the difference between life and death.

Remember: Most pregnancy complications are preventable or treatable when detected early. You deserve to survive pregnancy and enjoy watching your child grow. Your family needs you. Your community needs you. Take care of yourself by staying alert to warning signs and seeking help when you need it.