Going to an Obstetrician During Your Pregnancy
Are you looking for an obstetrician? Read on to learn more about what an obstetrician does. Visiting an obstetrician for the first time can be intimidating for many, particularly for those who are less familiar with what an obstetrician does and how they can help during pregnancy. This review provides all of the information you need to help you feel more comfortable about your first visit.
What is an obstetrician?
An obstetrician, also known as an OBGYN, is a medical professional who focuses on practicing medicine that relates to pregnancy and childbirth. They can further choose to focus on branches within obstetrics, like choosing to concentrate on maternal-fetal medicine and helping women who are experiencing high-risk pregnancies.
The first time a woman will normally see an obstetrician is when they make their first appointment for prenatal care. They will continue to make regular appointments with their obstetrician throughout the rest of their pregnancy.
An obstetrician will check on both the mother’s and the unborn baby’s health by performing routine tests, including but not limited to ultrasounds and tests that check for diabetes and genetic disorders. They will offer pregnant women advice on important topics like what to eat and how often they should exercise. They can help them learn how to deal with any morning sickness as well as any overall discomfort or pain they are experiencing during their pregnancy.
Why is it important to visit an obstetrician during pregnancy?
Obstetricians play a vital role during pregnancy for many women. Women with a high-risk pregnancy should visit their OBGYN regularly as they understand the complexities of high-risk pregnancies and how to help lower the overall risk of complications. However, obstetricians are not just for high-risk pregnancies; all who are pregnant should visit an obstetrician to help ensure a successful process that is as stress-free as possible.
What do obstetricians treat?
Obstetricians are able to treat a wide variety of health issues that a woman may experience during her pregnancy, including high-risk and therefore major health issues. While any pregnant woman can choose any obstetrician to deliver their baby, it is advised for women over the age of 35 or women who have been diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy to get their prenatal care from an experienced obstetrician as well.
A list of some of the major things obstetricians treat in their patients:
Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy means that the fertilized egg did not attach to the uterus as it should and therefore requires the use of medicine or surgery in order to end the pregnancy. Signs associated with an ectopic pregnancy include abnormal vaginal bleeding, mild pain or cramping on one side of the abdominal or pelvic area, and low back pain.
Preeclampsia
This medical condition is one that develops during pregnancy. While the exact cause is not known, symptoms associated with preeclampsia include high blood pressure, which can be detrimental to both mother and baby. It also leads to an increase in protein in their urine, which often causes their hands, feet, and legs to swell. Treatment options include taking prescribed medications and getting plenty of rest.
Placental abruption
This condition is caused when the placenta detaches from the uterus, which not only causes unwanted bleeding it can also get in the way of the unborn baby receiving necessary nutrients from the mother. There is no treatment available for this serious pregnancy issue, making it necessary for an obstetrician to closely monitor a woman who has been diagnosed with placental abruption. An abruption can lead to obstetrical hemorrhage, which means that the uterus does not contract after delivery and can therefore lead to an excess of postpartum bleeding.
What can I expect during my visit with an obstetrician?
A visit with an OBGYN typically begins with a general health check and a review of your family history and medical history; this helps identify any potential risks with your pregnancy. Blood and urine tests are usually ordered on the first visit as well. Lastly, a physical exam typically takes place. There are not any preparation requirements before your first visit with an obstetrician.
Ready to make your appointment?
If you are currently in need of an obstetrician, schedule an appointment with our OBGYN office today. Understand that it is very important that you feel completely comfortable with the obstetrician you choose to assist you throughout your pregnancy. An obstetrician is your go-to medical professional during and after your pregnancy, which means that they should assist you with anything you need during this time.
Get more information here: https://fresnoobgyn.com or call Camilla L. Marquez, MD at (559) 424-1180
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Obstetrician in Fresno, CA.
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