What indicates a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is characterized by factors that could potentially jeopardize the health of the mother or the fetus. The presence of maternal age over 35, chronic medical conditions (such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders), or prior pregnancy complications (such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, or recurrent miscarriage) are all well-documented indicators of increased risk.

Women over the age of 35 are more likely to experience complications such as chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive disorders. Chronic medical conditions may require closer monitoring and management during pregnancy to mitigate risks that could impact both maternal and fetal health. Furthermore, prior complications can indicate a higher likelihood of future issues, thereby necessitating more careful surveillance throughout the current pregnancy.

In contrast, low body mass index may lead to certain risks during pregnancy, but it does not inherently categorize a pregnancy as high risk in the same consistent way that the factors listed in the correct answer do. Similarly, the absence of morning sickness can be typical and is not an indicator of risk, while a positive family history of normal pregnancies suggests a lower likelihood of complications rather than an increased risk.