Obstetrics Specialist

What is obstetrics?

Obstetrics is the area of medicine that focuses on pregnancy and childbirth.

Because obstetrics is so closely related to gynecology (women's health), doctors typically study the two subjects together, qualifying as OB/GYNs. Some then choose to specialize in one field, but the Interior Women's Health team delivers both obstetric and gynecology services.

When choosing a provider for your care throughout pregnancy, obstetricians are an excellent choice. They are highly qualified, specialist physicians with expertise in all aspects of prenatal and postnatal care. That means they have the skills to identify any problems that might arise and support you through every stage of your pregnancy experience.

As well as preparing you for pregnancy and monitoring yours and your baby's health throughout, the obstetrics team at Interior Women's Health provides everything you need for safe delivery when you go into labor.

They continue to provide advice and treatment in the early weeks following the birth, helping you deal with the recovery process and any initial problems you might have with caring for yourself and your baby.

What happens at my first obstetrics appointment?

At your first obstetrics appointment, the Interior Women's Health team will confirm your pregnancy and calculate how many weeks pregnant you are. They also look through your medical history and ask about family history, to help identify any potential risk factors for you or your developing baby.

Using this information, your obstetrician can create a pregnancy plan with you that includes all your checkups, scans, and other tests, and any special services you might require like genetic counseling.

Your obstetrician also supports you with advice on how to stay healthy during pregnancy: for example, what diet is best, how to exercise, and what to avoid when you're pregnant. If you're struggling with any of the less pleasant symptoms of pregnancy, like morning sickness, they can help you manage your symptoms.

What special care would I need for a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one where there's an increased chance of either you or your unborn baby getting sick, or the baby not developing as it should. Common reasons for expectant mothers to be in a high-risk category include:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Heart problems
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Multiple pregnancy (e.g., twins or triplets)
• Previous history of multiple miscarriages
• Previous stillbirth
  
  

If tests pick up any abnormalities in the fetus or there are potential genetic problems like cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, and sickle cell anemia, you would be in a high-risk category too. Your risk also tends to increase as you get older.

The Interior Women's Health team has considerable experience in managing women with bleeding disorders, diabetes, hypertension, recurrent pregnancy loss, cervical incompetence, and fetal abnormalities. If your condition requires advanced forms of specialist care, they work with maternal-fetal medicine experts to safeguard you and your baby.

If you're pregnant or hoping to start a family, call Interior Women's Health today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.