Obstetrical Care Specialist

What is obstetrical care?

Obstetrical care is the support, advice, and treatment you receive during pregnancy and childbirth. It starts with pre-pregnancy planning and genetic counseling, followed by regular checkups, screenings, and pregnancy support after conception.

Your Miami Women's Health Associates obstetrician is then on-hand to monitor you throughout labor and help deliver your baby. They supervise your care for the initial period after the birth and deal with any health problems that may arise.

Obstetrical care has advantages in that an obstetrician is the most highly qualified person to advise you and monitor your health during pregnancy. They are also essential for high-risk pregnancies or if anything goes wrong during pregnancy or labor.

What kind of obstetrical care would I receive during pregnancy?

Your obstetrical care begins with the confirmation of your pregnancy. Your obstetrician then creates an obstetrical care plan for you, detailing all the checkups and procedures you need over the next nine months.

During the first trimester (weeks 1-13), you attend your initial obstetrical care appointment at Miami Women's Health Associates. Your obstetrician performs a physical examination, does a Pap smear if necessary, takes some blood for testing, and carries out an ultrasound exam where you can see your baby for the first time.

You attend further checkups in the second and third trimesters of your pregnancy – the frequency depends on whether your pregnancy is high risk, and may change if you develop any issues, such as gestational diabetes, during pregnancy.

Another important aspect of obstetrical care is helping you manage the adverse effects pregnancy may cause, such as:

• Morning sickness
• Heartburn (acid reflux)
• Leg swelling (edema)
• Aching legs
• Back pain
• Emotional issues

You also undergo tests for infections and have regular blood sugar screenings. You can choose to test for genetic abnormalities and conditions like Down syndrome as well if you wish.

What obstetrical care would I need during labor and delivery?

The obstetrical care you need during labor and delivery depends on how straightforward the process is and any risk factors you have going into labor.

Your Miami Women's Health Associates obstetrician monitors you and your baby's progress throughout and steps in to deal with any problems if they arise. For example, should there be any difficulties that mean your baby can't birth vaginally, your obstetrician can arrange an immediate cesarean section.

Having the reassurance of knowing your obstetrical care is under the control of an experienced, compassionate obstetrician is priceless. To take advantage of the superior obstetrical care available at Miami Women's Health Associates, call their office or book an appointment online today.