"Good health prior to and during pregnancy will help reduce the risk of complications in a late pregnancy," says Dr. Rishma Pai.

The first eight weeks are especially crucial to your baby's development. Early and regular pre-natal care will increase your chances of having a healthy baby.

Prenatal care also includes education on pregnancy, childbirth and counselling and support.

Speak with your gynaecologist about when you need to do these tests. Apart from the tests, Dr. Pai recommends…

• A healthy diet
• Moderate exercise
• Limited caffeine consumption
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking

Be it a planned or an unplanned late pregnancy; speak with your doctor to determine if the high risk status is merely due to your age or other complicating health factors.

Make sure that you are regular with checkups and don't skip any medications prescribed.