About Prenatal Care & Childbirth

Were you surprised to take a home pregnancy test and find that you are expecting a baby? Although home pregnancy tests are highly accurate, it is time to schedule an appointment with an obstetrician (OB) to get tested at a medical clinic. Upon confirmation of your pregnancy, an OB doctor will be able to take care of your prenatal needs and deliver the baby when they are born. Various problems can develop during your pregnancy that places both of your lives at risk without the medical expertise of an OB. You are not obligated to get prenatal care, but getting monitored by a physician throughout your pregnancy is in the best interest of you and the baby.

Prenatal Screenings for Your Unborn Child

An important reason to make an appointment with an OB as soon as possible is so your unborn child's growth can be monitored. Not only will prenatal care involve measuring the length of your baby, but also how he or she is situated in your uterus. Prenatal screenings will also be used to determine if your baby is at risk for having any birth defects, as well as what can be done to prevent the defects. The screenings can also detect genetic disorders that may not be able to be prevented. An OB will make sure everything is done to ensure that your baby is delivered healthy and that you are prepared for conditions of concern.

Monitoring Your Health for Problems of Concern

Other than caring for your unborn child, an OB can monitor your health while you are pregnant. The reason monitoring is important is because it is possible for problems to arise that puts your life at risk, such as high blood pressure and swollen extremities. For instance, if you have high blood pressure or unusual swelling, it could be a sign of a life-threatening condition called preeclampsia. In such a case, an OB will take proper precautions to lower your blood pressure and possibly deliver your baby earlier than the estimated due date.

Planning the Safest Delivery Method

Depending on your overall health throughout your pregnancy, one delivery method might be safer than another. For example, if there are no problems during the pregnancy, a vaginal delivery will be safe. If there are problems of concern, an OB might want to deliver your baby via cesarean section for your safety. Make an appointment to begin your prenatal checkups as soon as possible.

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