Pregnancy with Chronic Illnesses: How to Ensure a Safe Journey Supervised by Dr. Dina Ali Eid

Dr. Dina Ali Eid, Consultant in Obstetrics, Gynecology, IVF, High-Risk Pregnancy, and Fetal Medicine, Fellow of the Royal Colleges in London and Dublin, and holder of a Master’s degree in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Alexandria University, explains in this article how pregnancy can be safely managed in women with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

 What Is a High-Risk Pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one accompanied by health conditions that may endanger the health of the mother, the baby, or both. Among the most significant are chronic illnesses, which require close monitoring before, during, and after pregnancy.

Dr. Dina Ali Eid emphasizes that these cases demand joint supervision between the obstetrician and a specialist physician (e.g., internal medicine, cardiology, endocrinology).

 Which Chronic Conditions Require Special Monitoring During Pregnancy?

1. Chronic Hypertension

• May lead to preeclampsia or restricted fetal growth.

• Requires pregnancy-safe medications and regular blood pressure monitoring.

2. Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or Gestational)

• Increases the risk of birth defects if not well-controlled early.

• Blood sugar must be tightly regulated with insulin or safe oral medications.

3. Heart Disease

• Affects the body’s ability to handle increased circulatory demands.

• Regular cardiac assessments are necessary during pregnancy.

4. Autoimmune Disorders (e.g., Lupus)

• Must be stabilized before conception, and medications must be carefully adjusted.

5. Chronic Kidney or Liver Disease

• Can impact fluid balance and metabolic function, requiring frequent lab tests.

 How Does Dr. Dina Ali Eid Ensure Safe Monitoring?

Dr. Dina Ali Eid develops a personalized follow-up plan for each patient, which may include:

• Routine checks for blood pressure, sugar levels, and vital signs

• Frequent lab tests to assess organ function

• Ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth and amniotic fluid levels

• Adjusting medication dosages to ensure pregnancy safety

• Collaboration with relevant specialists

• Fetal monitoring with cardiotocography and growth scans

 When Is Delivery Recommended?

Depending on the severity of the condition and maternal-fetal stability, Dr. Dina Ali Eid determines the safest time and method of delivery, whether vaginal or cesarean.

 Tips from Dr. Dina Ali Eid for Pregnant Women with Chronic Conditions:

• Start medical consultations before conceiving, if possible

• Never stop medications without medical advice

• Adhere to regular follow-up schedules

• Effective disease control significantly reduces complications

• Maintain a healthy diet and manage stress levels