Once your baby is born, you’re home from the hospital, and you’ve had your postpartum check-up, it’s completely normal to want to move forward and not look back at any complications you experienced during pregnancy. But your pregnancy can offer important insight into your long-term health, and reflection is an important part of the process.
Research shows that certain pregnancy complications can act as a “window” into your future risk for chronic conditions. In many ways, pregnancy can function like a natural stress test, revealing underlying health patterns or vulnerabilities.Researchers are still working to understand whether these complications directly cause future conditions or are simply associated with them. But what we do know is this: they can help identify risk earlier, and give you the opportunity to take proactive steps for your health.
At Diana Health, we believe you deserve to understand the full picture of your health. When we know your risk, we can partner with you to create a plan that supports your long-term well-being.
What pregnancy complications are linked to long-term health risks?
Some of the most common pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes, preterm birth, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, growth-restricted babies, pregnancy loss, and placental abruption, have been associated with increased cardiometabolic risk later in life.
This can include conditions like:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
A history of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension may also increase your risk of chronic kidney disease.
Pregnancy loss and stillbirth can also be associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress symptoms, highlighting the importance of ongoing mental health support.
And for many years, we’ve known that gestational diabetes is strongly linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life.
Does this mean I will develop these conditions?
No, having a pregnancy complication typically means there is an increased risk, not a guarantee.
One way to think about it: it’s like a warning light on your car’s dashboard. It doesn’t mean something is wrong right now, but it does mean it’s worth paying attention.
The good news is that many chronic conditions can be prevented, delayed, or better managed with early awareness, regular screening, and healthy lifestyle habits.
That’s why it’s so important to share your pregnancy history with your healthcare provider, so you can decide together what next steps make sense for you.
What should I do if I’ve had a pregnancy complication?
Start by having a conversation. Talk with your Diana Health clinician about your pregnancy history and how it may impact your long-term health.
From there, you can work together to decide:
- Whether any lab work or screenings are needed
- How often you should be seen
- If a referral to a specialist makes sense
While annual visits are important for everyone, they’re especially important if you’ve experienced a pregnancy complication, even if you feel completely healthy.
What can I do now to lower my risk?
While your care team will guide you with personalized recommendations, there are a few foundational habits that support long-term health for most women:
- Eating a nutrient-dense diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, beans, and seeds
- Staying physically active (aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
- Prioritizing sleep and recovery
These habits help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve overall well-being.
Care that goes beyond pregnancy
At Diana Health, we’re here for you at every stage, not just during pregnancy.
While we’re experts in maternity care, our support doesn’t end at your postpartum visit. We partner with women throughout their lives to help improve long-term health and wellbeing.
Whether your pregnancy was recent or years ago, your health history matters.
If you have questions about your risk or want to take the next step in your care, our team is here to help. And if you don’t have access to a Diana Health clinic near you, we encourage you to have this conversation with your OB/GYN or primary care provider.
