OBGYN

Baby’s First Day Baby’s First Day Part 1 OBGYN

During labor, an obstetrics and gynecology professional, or OBGYN, functions as a reliable guide through the delivery process and even after the big day, as well.

Some of an OBGYN’s duties include monitoring you and your baby for any issues that may arise during labor and, additionally, managing your postpartum care immediately afterward. Postpartum assistance from an OBGYN typically lasts approximately six weeks after birth.

Gynecologists specialize in the medical practice relating to the health of the female reproductive system. Obstetrics focuses on pregnancy, labor, and the period of postpartum. The utilization of the synthesis of both of these medical specializations, an OBGYN, will allow you the ability to rest assured that each intricate aspect of you, and your baby’s, health are taken into heavy consideration during every step of the way.

It’s important for me to urge you to find an OBGYN that YOU are comfortable with. The right OBGYN for you should provide a personal and tailored experience; one that focuses on your unique medical needs.

I would begin the search before you even become pregnant, to be the most prepared. You will be visiting this Dr. so many times that you don’t want to add pressure to yourself in those beginning days and end up on a wild goose chase.

Talk to close friends and family. See that you find someone you’d trust you and your baby with. As we mentioned, the OBGYN is going to be with you through your entire pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. The right one is out there for you!

OBGYN FAQs:

What are some specific care methods OBGYNs help women with during pregnancy?

Perform prenatal testing (urine, Pap blood, etc.)
Conduct fetal monitoring (kick counts, ultrasounds, electronic fetal monitoring)
Look out for, and inform you about, any physical, mental or emotional changes you’re having
Labor and delivery care
Function as a guide through any physical changes that take place during postpartum
Prescribe medications
Answer all of the many questions you have along the way

How often can you expect to see the OBGYN while pregnant?

For maintaining optimal health during pregnancy, your doctor will likely ask to see you on the following recommended prenatal schedule:

Weeks 4-28: 1 prenatal visit/per month.
Weeks 28-36: 1 prenatal visit/every 2 weeks.
Weeks 36-40: 1 prenatal visit every week.

When should my first visit occur?

The first prenatal appointment typically takes place during week 6 and 8 of the second month. I would make sure to call as SOON as you receive confirmation that you are pregnant. OBGYN’s are extremely busy taking care of all of the mothers-to-be and little babies out there! Some practitioners will be able to fit you in no questions asked, while others may have to wait several weeks… or longer.

Do I really need an OBGYN?

You may need to see one if you face any complications during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. Midwifery can very often be extremely complementary to obstetrics. However, there are important procedures midwives do not perform. In that situation, you would be referred back to an obstetrician.

A final note:

Should you decide that you want either a doula, midwife, obstetrician, or any combination of these care providers, in choosing them, be sure to weigh out these three points: