High-risk pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy means that you or your baby has a greater chance of health problems. Things that may make your pregnancy high-risk include your current health, your age, and your pregnancy history. A genetic problem in either parent can also make a pregnancy high-risk.

Your pregnancy is high-risk if you:

Have a genetic disease (such as cystic fibrosis), chronic disease (such as diabetes), chronic infection (such as HIV), brain disorder (such as epilepsy), heart problems, or high blood pressure.
Are overweight or underweight.
Are younger than 17 or older than 35.
Have had problems with previous pregnancies, such as repeated miscarriages, preterm labor, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or difficult births.
Have an abnormality detected during your pregnancy.
Have a multiple pregnancy (twins or more).

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.