Understanding High-Risk pregnancy: Risks, Early Detection, and Family Support

Pregnancy is often considered a natural condition that will run its course.

In fact, under certain conditions, pregnancy can enter the high risk category and endanger the safety of the mother and fetus if not handled properly.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Doctor from RSUP Dr.Wahidin Sudirohusodo, dr. Effendi Lukas, Sp.OG, emphasized that high-risk pregnancies are not only a matter for pregnant women, but also for all family members.

Family support and vigilance play an vital role in detecting danger signs early.

“Pregnancy is not a disease. But if it is not managed carefully, pregnancy can bring danger to the mother, fetus, or both,” said Dr. Effendi in the Ministry of Health’s Healthy Family Talkshow program, quoted on Saturday (3/1/2026).

What is a high risk pregnancy?

According to Dr.Effendi, high risk pregnancy is a pregnancy condition that has the potential to cause serious complications.

these risks can arise before pregnancy, during pregnancy, during delivery, and after delivery.

“A high-risk pregnancy is a pregnancy that under certain conditions can harm the mother, the baby, or both,” he said.

Therefore,it is not enough for pregnant women to recognize risks alone. Families, especially husbands, need to understand these conditions so they can make quick decisions when danger signs appear.

Illness before pregnancy increases risk

dr. Effendi explained that several health conditions before pregnancy can increase the risk of complications. For example, mothers with a history of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, and tumors.

“If the mother already had a disease before becoming pregnant, then the pregnancy should be considered as a high risk pregnancy,” he explained.

he added that the obesity rate among women in Indonesia is quite high. About one in five women is obese, which can increase the risk of diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy.