By Dr. Sonamm Tiwari
Did you know that nearly half of all pregnancies in India are classified as “high-risk”? This is due to a variety of factors, from short birth spacing to adverse past birth outcomes. While Mumbai boasts advanced healthcare facilities, it is crucial for every expectant mother in our city to understand the risks and early warning signs.
What is a High-Risk Pregnancy?
A high-risk pregnancy is one that increases the chances of complications for the mother, the baby, or both during pregnancy and childbirth. Globally, about 15% of women develop life-threatening complications during pregnancy. In India, high-risk pregnancies contribute to approximately 75% of perinatal mortality
Common factors that contribute to a high-risk pregnancy include:
- Short Birth Spacing: Nearly 31% of Indian women have pregnancies spaced less than 18 months apart, which can increase the risk of complications
- Adverse Birth Outcomes: About 19.5% of women report previous adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth.
- Maternal Age: Both teenage pregnancies and pregnancies in women over 35 carry increased risks.
- Medical and Lifestyle Risks: Conditions like severe anemia, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption are significant contributors.
The Reality of High-Risk Pregnancies in India
Recent findings from India’s National Family Health Survey-5 reveal that 49.4% of pregnant women in India have at least one high-risk factor. 33% face a single high-risk issue, while 16.4% have multiple risk factors. Socioeconomic factors also play a crucial role: women with no formal education have over twice the odds of experiencing a high-risk pregnancy compared to their highly educated counterparts, and those from the poorest quintile are at significantly higher risk
While these figures are national, Mumbai’s urban setting and better access to healthcare do not make its residents immune. Awareness and early detection remain key.
The Power of Early Detection and Regular Antenatal Care
Timely and regular antenatal care can dramatically improve pregnancy outcomes by:
- Identifying Risk Early: Regular check-ups help detect issues such as anemia or gestational diabetes early, allowing for timely interventions.
- Customized Care: Mumbai’s renowned hospitals and clinics offer specialized care for high-risk pregnancies, ensuring that complications are managed effectively.
- Government Schemes: Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Yojana provide free and comprehensive antenatal care, with an emphasis on early risk detection and prompt referral if needed.
Practical Advice for Mumbai Women
- Stay Informed: Understand your personal risk factors. Even if you are young or well-nourished, factors like a history of adverse outcomes or short birth intervals may still place you in a high-risk category.
- Prioritize Antenatal Visits: Early registration and consistent antenatal check-ups are vital. They not only monitor your health and that of your baby but also offer an opportunity for health education and counseling.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity. In Mumbai’s fast-paced environment, managing stress and ensuring proper nutrition can significantly lower risk.
- Use Available Resources: Take advantage of both public and private healthcare resources. Mumbai’s hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, and many offer specialized high-risk pregnancy services.
- Understand Your Rights: Be aware of government schemes and support programs. If you qualify for services under PMSMA or similar initiatives, ensure you’re enrolled and receive the benefits.
While advancements in medical technology and urban healthcare infrastructure in Mumbai have led to better maternal outcomes, high-risk pregnancies continue to demand vigilance. By combining early detection, continuous care, and a healthy lifestyle, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with pregnancy. As your high-risk pregnancy specialist, I urge every expectant mother to not only follow regular antenatal care but also to ask questions, seek second opinions if needed, and remain proactive about your health. Together, with the right knowledge and support, we can ensure safer pregnancies and healthier babies for Mumbai.
Dr. Sonamm Tiwari
Phone-+91-9321499264
Email-info@drsonammtiwari.com
Website-https://www.drsonammtiwari.com/
Consultant Obstetrician & High-Risk Pregnancy Specialist, Mumbai
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