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For Expecting Mothers & Families

Brought to you by the Brooks & Allan Foundation
Supporting awareness, advocacy, and answers for families navigating high-risk pregnancies.

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What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one where the health of the mother, baby, or both may be at risk due to medical conditions, complications, or external factors. It requires closer monitoring and specialized care.

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What should I do if I’m considered high-risk?

  • See a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist

  • Attend all prenatal appointments

  • Keep a symptom log (swelling, headaches, vision changes, vomiting, etc.)

  • Monitor blood pressure at home

  • Advocate for yourself — your concerns are valid

  • Ask for extra testing or ultrasounds when something feels off

  • Know the signs of preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome

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What are common risk factors?

  • History of pregnancy loss or preterm birth

  • High blood pressure or preeclampsia

  • HELLP Syndrome

  • Gestational diabetes

  • Multiple gestation (twins, triplets, etc.)

  • Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus)

  • Advanced maternal age (35+)

  • Obesity or underweight status

  • Placental complications

  • Substance use or certain medications

  • Infections or untreated chronic conditions

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What symptoms should I never ignore?

  • Sudden swelling in hands/face

  • Severe or persistent headaches

  • Blurry vision or seeing spots

  • Upper right abdominal pain

  • Nausea or vomiting (especially after the 2nd trimester)

  • Decreased fetal movement

  • High blood pressure readings (140/90 or higher)

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Feeling like something is "off" or wrong

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What care should I receive?

  • Frequent ultrasounds and non-stress tests

  • Blood pressure monitoring

  • Urinalysis to check for protein

  • Blood work (platelets, liver function, etc.)

  • Specialist consultations as needed

  • Delivery planning based on risk and gestation

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How can the Brooks & Allan Foundation help?

We provide:

  • Support kits for families in high-risk pregnancies

  • HELLP Syndrome and Preeclampsia awareness resources

  • Pregnancy After Loss tracking tools

  • Connection to support communities

  • Grief resources for those who experience loss

You are not alone. We’re here to help

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 What if I feel dismissed by a provider?

You have the right to be heard. If you're concerned and not taken seriously:

  • Speak up again.

  • Request testing.

  • Switch doctors if necessary.

  • Bring a support person to advocate with you.

  • Document everything — including symptoms and conversations.

Your instincts matter. Trust them.

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How often should I be monitored during a high-risk pregnancy?

The frequency of monitoring depends on your specific condition, but general guidelines include:

  • Every 2–4 weeks in the second trimester (or more if complications arise)

  • Weekly or biweekly visits in the third trimester

  • More frequent ultrasounds to check baby’s growth and fluid levels

  • Non-stress tests (NSTs) starting around 28–32 weeks if there are concerns

  • Blood pressure checks at every visit, or daily at home

  • Extra lab work (like liver enzymes and platelet counts) if you show signs of HELLP, preeclampsia, or other conditions

If you ever feel unsure or unsafe, don’t wait for your next appointment — call or go in.

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