When you visit an obstetrician, they can provide a full range of services for women, from reproductive care to prenatal and postpartum care. Obstetricians are specially trained in all aspects of women’s health, from when a woman is sexually mature until after she has passed through menopause. Finding the right obstetrics specialist is crucial. Book an appointment with Dr. Torres OBGYN. If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, here are some reasons why you should visit an obstetrician.
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Prenatal and Postnatal Checkups
There are many benefits to prenatal and postnatal checkups with your obstetrician. During a prenatal checkup, your obstetrician will measure the height of your uterus, monitor the baby’s growth, and listen to the baby’s heartbeat. They will also give you a pelvic exam and blood or urine tests.
After the baby is born, you will need to have a postnatal checkup within the first week. This checkup will include a physical exam, breastfeeding advice, and information about how to care for your baby. You will also need to bring your baby in for a two and six week checkup.
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Blood and Urine Tests
During your obstetrician’s visits, they will also take blood and urine samples. These tests help them check the level of hormones in the mother’s system, which can indicate whether or not there is preeclampsia. These hormone levels are also crucial for monitoring the status of your pregnancy.
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Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are an essential part of prenatal care because they allow your obstetrician to see the baby and monitor its development. They will also tell if the baby is in the correct position for a safe birth.
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Pelvic Exams
A pelvic exam is an integral part of prenatal care because it allows your obstetrician to check the size and shape of your pelvis. This information can help them determine if a c-section may be necessary during labor.
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Ultrasounds and Other Diagnostics
Sometimes, ultrasounds and other diagnostic tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) may need to occur during pregnancy. During these tests, the obstetrician will be able to monitor the fetus’s health and determine if any genetic abnormalities can affect you and/or your baby after the baby is born.
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Prescribing Medications
If you plan to have a natural childbirth, your obstetrician will need to determine if they can safely prescribe any medications during labor. Some medications may interfere with the progression of work. An obstetrician can also make recommendations about any pain management options that are available.
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Nutrition, Lifestyle and Pregnancy Education
There are a few key things that you should keep in mind regarding your nutrition, lifestyle, and pregnancy education. First, your obstetrician will ensure that you are eating a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. They guide on avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks.
Second, you should make sure that you are getting enough exercise. Exercise can help to improve your health both during and after your pregnancy. It can also help to reduce the risk of complications during labor.
Pregnant women need to have regular checkups with their obstetricians. Not only will they be able to monitor the baby’s growth, but they can also give you advice on how to care for your new infant and prescribe any medications necessary during labor if needed.
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