When a woman finds out she is expecting a child, elation is usually one of the most common feelings. There are some instances in which finding out about the pregnancy is only one of the shocks she will receive. Some women find out that they are expecting more than one baby when they go in for an ultrasound. That discovery brings the pregnancy into a new category. A multiple pregnancy is considered a high-risk pregnancy. Our Kentucky readers might be interested in learning a little about what that designation means.
Why are multiple pregnancies considered high risk?
There are many complications that can occur in multiple pregnancies. The most common of these is that the babies might be born premature. Around 60 percent of multiple pregnancies end in preterm labor. In many cases, the birth is also complicated. It is possible for women with multiples to give birth vaginally, but many cases involve a Cesarean section. Generally, for triplets and higher order multiples, a C-section is expected.
What are some other issues common in multiple pregnancies?
Some women might suffer from pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes. Pre-eclampsia can turn into a life-threatening condition so it must be monitored carefully. Gestational diabetes can be managed and is common in singleton pregnancies as well. The babies are also at risk in multiple pregnancies. The placenta can deteriorate and the babies can suffer from other complications because of the mother’s body having to raise more than one baby.
Proper monitoring during any pregnancy is vital, but the effects can be devastating if a multiple pregnancy isn’t monitored carefully. When improper monitoring affects the outcome of a pregnancy, the parent might choose to seek compensation.
