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All women need extra care when they’re pregnant, but certain conditions and situations may call for additional, specialized attention.

At the beginning of your pregnancy you should visit your health care provider every four to six weeks. After about 30 weeks, you will have visits every two to three weeks. In the last month, your health care provider will want to see you every one to two weeks or more. 

However, some women may receive extra medical attention or advice from their healthcare providers during ther pregnancy. Your doctor or midwife may provide extra care if you:

• are underweight or overweight
• experienced problems with a previous pregnancy (for example, if your baby was preterm or weighed less than 2,500 g (5 lb. 8 oz.)
• have diabetes, high blood pressure or other medical conditions
• are over 40 years of age
• are carrying more than one baby
• have undergone uterine surgery (for example, caesarean birth, cone biopsy)
• use alcohol, cigarettes or drugs
• are under emotional stress or experience violence in your life
• are dealing with depression or other mental health issues

Perinatal Depression

Perinatal depression can happen any time from when you first get pregnant to one year after your baby is born. It can affect your physical health along with your emotions, thinking and behaviours. If you have perinatal depression, it’s important to get help. Without treatment, it can affect both you and your baby. A mother who’s depressed for a long time can have difficulty bonding and caring for her baby.

For more information about perinatal depression and sources of support, click here.

References:

HealthLink BC: High-Risk Pregnancy