Every pregnancy has some risks, but there are more dangers to your health and the health of your fetus with a high risk pregnancy. The causes can be conditions you already have or conditions you develop. They also include being pregnant with more than one baby, previous problem pregnancies, or being over age 35.

If you have a chronic condition, you should talk to your health care provider about how to minimize your risk before you get pregnant. Examples of common conditions that can complicate a pregnancy include

What can a woman do to promote a healthy pregnancy?

• Getting at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day if she thinks she could become pregnant, and continuing folic acid when she does get pregnant.
• Getting proper immunizations.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and diet, getting regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking, alcohol, or drug use.
• Starting prenatal care appointments early in pregnancy.