Having access to an intensive care unit for newborns is especially important for mothers experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, or when problems are known to be present in the fetus.

When a pregnancy is believed to be high-risk, special monitoring and care may be necessary for both mother and baby. Many factors can create a higher-risk situation, including poor nutrition, age over 35, high blood pressure, diabetes, infections, or family history of birth defects.

A high-risk pregnancy is one in which there's a higher chance of complications. You can lower your risk by avoiding certain lifestyle factors, like smoking, drinking, using drugs, or being routinely exposed to dangerous chemicals.