Hand to Hold Letter Series: To the Parent Navigating a High-Risk Pregnancy

June 30, 2025

hand to hold high risk pregnancy, NICU

Dear parents navigating a high-risk pregnancy,

Navigating a high-risk pregnancy can feel overwhelming and scary. It can feel like walking a tightrope – delicate, nerve-wracking, and often isolating. The medical complexities are just one piece of the puzzle. The emotional toll can often be equally demanding. But even in the midst of uncertainty, there are tools to help you not just endure, but thrive. Here are four ways that helped me during my high-risk pregnancy and bedrest.

Even in the midst of uncertainty, there are tools to help you not just endure, but thrive.

Journal

When information feels overwhelming and anxiety starts to creep in, journaling can help. It’s a way to process fears, track symptoms, and celebrate small victories like making it to viability. It was also a way for me to connect and bond with my baby as I wrote him notes and updates after doctor visits. Jotting down your thoughts, questions for your doctor, or even just daily gratitude can bring a sense of control to a situation that often feels out of your hands.

Listen to your body

A high-risk pregnancy requires extra attention, and tuning into your body is crucial for you and your baby. You know your body best. Trust your intuition. If you feel like something is off or have a concern, speak up. It is okay to call your doctor, go to the doctor’s office, or go to the hospital to check on things. It is better to err on the side of caution. It is ok and paramount to rest. You are not selfish for taking care of your body and resting. Your health is important. You are important.

Lean on your support network

No one should face a high-risk pregnancy alone. Now, more than ever, is the time to lean on your support network. This means your partner, family, and trusted friends. Be open about what you need, whether it’s a listening ear, help at home, or just a distraction. Allow them to be your cheerleaders and helpers. I talked to one friend almost every day about anything and everything. It was a welcome distraction from all the stress I was under. I also found an online community of other parents facing the same diagnosis. Connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences, perhaps in online forums or local support groups, can also provide invaluable empathy and support.

Be open about what you need, whether it’s a listening ear, help at home, or just a distraction.

Hand to Hold offers free support groups and free counseling for those ensuring a high-risk pregnancy. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Bonus: Ranch Dressing

And then there’s the ranch dressing. Yes, you read that right. I do love ranch dressing. While it might sound ridiculous, having a beloved comfort food, like a bottle of your favorite ranch dressing, in your hospital room fridge while on bedrest can be surprisingly helpful. When hospital food feels bland or your appetite is elusive, a familiar, comforting taste can be a little anchor of normalcy. Maybe for you it’s hot sauce, or your favorite seasoning. It’s about finding those small, personal comforts that remind you of home, routine, and the simple joys amidst the chaos of your circumstances and the hospital environment.

If it’s not a food item, maybe it’s a comfort item from home: a favorite blanket, pillow, cozy slippers, or a soothing lotion.

A high-risk pregnancy demands resilience. By embracing the power of journaling, listening to your body, relying on your loving support system, and allowing for those small, personal comforts (even if it’s just ranch dressing!), you can navigate this challenging journey with greater peace and strength.