The first-time  pregnant woman faced severe risks due to preterm labor, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and anemia, but timely interventions ensured a healthy outcome

A team led by Dr. Ashwini Rathod, Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and Infertility Specialist, successfully managed a high-risk pregnancy of a 30-year-old patient, Mrs. Roshni, who was diagnosed with preterm labor, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and iron deficiency anemia at just 22 weeks of gestation. Despite the risks of premature delivery and poor fetal growth, the dedicated team ensured meticulous care over the following months. The patient went on to deliver a healthy baby girl weighing 2.5 kg at 38 weeks through vaginal delivery.

Mrs Roshni Sawade  and a resident of Pune, was married for just a year and conceived naturally. Like every first-time mother, she was filled with joy and dreams about welcoming her first baby. But her happiness was shaken when, at just 22 weeks of pregnancy, she started experiencing severe abdominal pain. Worried and anxious, she rushed to Ankura Hospital, where doctors found that she was showing signs of preterm labor along with severe anemia. An ultrasound further revealed that her baby was not growing well inside the womb due to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and she also had a short cervix with funneling. These findings meant that both mother and baby were at high risk, and there was a real fear that the pregnancy might end much earlier than expected. She was anxious due to the risk of threatened preterm delivery. The patient was admitted on an emergency basis.

Dr. Ashwini Rathod, Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and Infertility Specialist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Pune, said, “When Mrs Roshni came to us at just 22 weeks with severe pain and signs of preterm labor, vaginal discharge, and pain in the abdomen, it was a very critical stage of her pregnancy. The ultrasound showed intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), which meant the baby was not growing well inside the womb, along with a short cervix, which increases the chance of early delivery. Such a combination is always high-risk because preterm babies may face breathing issues, underdeveloped organs, and long-term complications. Pregnancies complicated by anemia, IUGR, and threatened preterm labor need very close monitoring. She received a drug to stop uterine contractions, antibiotics, nutritional support, and was started on iron therapy. Corticosteroids were administered to aid fetal lung maturity, and magnesium sulfate was given for neuroprotection of the baby.”

Dr Ashwini Rathod further added, “After giving her iron injections to correct anemia, amino acids for fetal growth, and keeping her under frequent follow-ups. At 34 weeks, her scans showed good progress, and by 38 weeks, she was able to deliver normally. This is a classic example of how early recognition and a team-based approach can make a huge difference. So, the patient was closely monitored through serial ultrasounds and admitted multiple times for supportive care, including amino acid therapy and vitamins. By following strict bed rest, medication, and dietary advice, the pregnancy was prolonged till 38 weeks. Eventually, she delivered a healthy baby girl weighing 2.5 kg through vaginal delivery. Both mother and baby are safe and healthy. Without intervention, she might have delivered very prematurely, which would have placed the baby at risk of long-term health. With timely medications to stop contractions, nutritional therapy, and injections to improve the baby’s lung maturity, we could prolong the pregnancy to a safe stage. This case highlights Ankura Hospital’s commitment to advanced maternal-fetal care and safe outcomes even in complicated pregnancies.”

This case truly highlights why regular antenatal check-ups and proper nutritional care are so vital during pregnancy. While many expectant mothers limit themselves to basic vitamins, high-risk pregnancies demand a more comprehensive approach with iron, protein, and other essential supplements. Conditions like preterm labor and IUGR can be life-threatening for both mother and child, but with timely medical intervention, close monitoring, and the right support system, it is possible to achieve safe and positive outcomes. Right care at the right time can transform a high-risk pregnancy into a happy journey of motherhood.

Sharing her joy, Mrs. Roshni Sawade said,“ When I first heard that I had preterm labor and that my baby was not growing well inside my womb, my world came crashing down. Being my first pregnancy, I was full of dreams, but suddenly I was gripped with the fear of losing my child. Every day felt like a battle, but the doctors at Ankura Hospital stood by me, guiding me with patience and care. They admitted me whenever it was necessary, explained every step with kindness, and gave me the strength to keep believing. Holding my baby girl in my arms today feels nothing short of a miracle. I will forever be grateful to the team for not just saving our lives, but for giving me the joy of motherhood I had prayed for.”