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Obstetricians are invaluable medical professionals to pregnant women. They specialize in the care of pregnant women and their unborn babies throughout pregnancy. Each trimester comes with its own set of concerns and responsibilities. An obstetrician uses their expertise to identify potential health issues and make suggestions for optimal health and fetal development.
THE FIRST TRIMESTER
The first trimester is when most of the fetus’bodily systems begin developing. During this time, the fetus is most vulnerable to anything that can affect the mother’s health. An obstetrician helps ensure that the mother receives ample nutrients. They also guide mothers to avoid substances that can impact fetal development.
An obstetrician can support first-time moms through the changes that occur during pregnancy. These include undesirable symptoms, such as morning sickness. The obstetrician will also guide onwhat is considered normal and what is a concern that should be brought to their attention.
Prenatal Consultations
Doctors recommend scheduling your first prenatal consultation once you know you’re pregnant. These consultations allow you and the obstetrician to communicate vital information in an organized and timely manner.
Your doctor will ask about your medical history, health conditions, and general lifestyle. This information will help determine potential risks that might need medical intervention. Some communicable diseases can also affect the unborn child. Thus, you need to disclose your vaccination records and receive vaccines as needed.
You will also undergo testing, as advised by your obstetrician. In most cases, patients are advised to get a physical exam, blood work,and STD testing. This may seem extensive, but it is a great way to assess a pregnant woman’s health and pinpoint problems that can have health implications during pregnancy. For instance, mothers-to-be should know their blood Rh status. Rh incompatibility may cause an immune reaction that’s harmful to the fetus. You can avoid the negative impacts through early detection and management.
Additionally, the obstetrician will give patients a rough estimate of their due date. Most childbirths do not occur on the exact predicted due date. Nonetheless, this information is still helpful for couples as they prepare for the eventual delivery.
THE SECOND TRIMESTER
During this trimester, obstetricians focus on tracking the development of the unborn baby. They determine the approximate size of the fetus and compare it to reference values. Deviations in growth could mean an underlying condition that your doctor may be able to address with prompt treatment.
The prenatal visits during the second trimester also allow you to hear your child’s heartbeat. Likewise, the fetus can sometimes move its limbs, which mothers can feel. These movements are generally signs of good nervous and muscular development.
Obstetricians recommend several prenatal tests during this period. They may administer a blood test or get a sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the unborn child. Medical teams can determine the possibility of developmental issues through these tests. You may also have to undergo testing for gestational diabetes and anemia.
THE THIRD TRIMESTER
Prenatal visits pick up in frequency during the third trimester. One important test in this trimester screens for group B streptococcus bacteria. Testing positive means there is a risk of transmission during natural childbirth. Thus, your doctor may administer antibiotics during labor to decrease this risk.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommend getting the Tdap vaccine in the last trimester.
Near the end of the pregnancy, your obstetrician will check the position of the unborn child. Most babies are in a headfirst position for easy delivery. However, some are in a breech position, where the buttocks or legs are closest to the cervix. This can complicate natural childbirth. If this is the case, your doctor will discuss your options on how to proceed with childbirth. For instance, a C-section delivery may be a more suitable option.
OBSTETRICS CARE IN WOOSTER, OHIO
Throughout pregnancy, your obstetrician will be with you to provide essential medical guidance. Having an excellent obstetrician is necessary for a safe and rewarding pregnancy.
Here at Wooster Community Hospital, we offer personalized and family-centric obstetrics care. Our doctors and staff will do everything possible to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby. Learn more by calling us at (330) 263-8100. You may also visit one of our locations near you.
