Because of Michelle’s age and the medical complications of her last pregnancy ““ which also included gall bladder problems and a perforated bowel ““ a high-risk obstetrician will be handling this pregnancy.
Michelle’s age already puts her at higher risk for certain pregnancy complications including gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and preeclampsia, placental problems, premature birth, delivering a stillbirth, and having a baby with a birth defect. Her past history of preeclampsia (with Josie and during her second pregnancy) also puts her at higher risk for developing the condition again.
Although many women with preeclampsia won’t experience it in future pregnancies, the risk of recurrent preeclampsia ranges from 5 to 70 percent. Women who have mild preeclampsia when they’re near full-term are only at 5 percent risk. But women ““ like Michelle ““ who develop severe preeclampsia and are delivered before 30 weeks pregnant are at the highest risk of developing the condition again.
Despite these risks, we hope the Duggars have a healthy pregnancy. What do you think about this new pregnancy? Have they had too many babies already? And what do you think they should name their newest child? Tell us your favorite J names below!