Obstetrics

What Constitutes a Low or High-Risk Pregnancy?

Low-risk pregnancies are those in which no potential health problems are apparent. The mother has few health risks, and the fetus grows according to average charts and estimations. High-risk pregnancies can include those where the mother is diagnosed with gestational diabetes, hypertension, the possibility of a miscarriage, or there is the risk that the fetus may be born with a birth defect or a congenital illness. The doctors at Lakeshore Women’s Specialists can perform 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds for both low and high-risk pregnancies. 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds offer doctors valuable information to determine whether or not any risks are present and what can be done to reduce the possible risk to mother and child. For high-risk pregnancies, additional care is coordinated with Maternal-Fetal Medicine consultants.

When is an Infant Considered Premature?

An infant is considered premature when he or she is born more than 3 weeks before the due date. The doctors at Lakeshore Women’s Specialists work closely with a team of neonatologists at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center, who specialize in caring for premature babies. One of the biggest concerns for neonatologists is the underdevelopment of the lungs. While the lungs are considered to be fully developed around the 36th week, delivery prior to that period may cause serious problems. Neonatologists at the practice’s hospital, LNRMC, allow care for premature infants born as early as 32 weeks, typically without having to be transferred to another care facility. With the advanced technology at LNRMC, delivery at 32 weeks now has fewer complications than ever before. Doctors are better able to care for the many needs of a premature infant when it comes to breathing on their own and protecting their delicate vision.

What are Common Health Issues Pregnant Women Face?

There are many common health issues women face while they are pregnant. Sometimes women develop gestational diabetes during their pregnancy or abnormally high blood pressure, either of which can be disastrous if proper care is not received. Monitoring these conditions is with an experienced OB-GYN is important to ensure the mother and child do not experience any adverse reactions. The goal is to maintain a viable pregnancy for as long as possible, while still giving the mother the option to have a natural birth on or near her projected due date.