Obstetrics in Rochester Hills & Troy
What Is Obstetrics?
Obstetrics is the practice of medicine that handles all things related to pregnancy and childbirth. Though many gynecologists can and do see pregnant women, obstetricians are specifically trained to handle the ins and outs of pregnancy, including the actual process of giving birth.
When You Need To See An Obstetrician
Most women know to contact an obstetrician when they become pregnant, but the care these specialists provide can actually begin even sooner than that. Obstetricians often help patients to overcome fertility issues and prepare for pregnancy by assisting them in making lifestyle changes that will improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
Make an appointment today to pursue your fertility options.
What To Expect
First Appointment
Once you become pregnant, prenatal care with an obstetrician should begin by about 8 weeks, or a bit earlier if you know that you have pre-existing conditions that may increase risks to you or your baby. Your first appointment will differ depending on your obstetrician but the initial office visit usually includes taking a bit of history to assess your risks and explain what services your provider offers. Your provider will ask about medications you are taking as well as information about family medical history and any previous pregnancies. The obstetrics department at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology is here to help you in a nonjudgmental manner, so it is important to be completely honest with your provider in order to get the best care possible for you and your baby.
How To Schedule
The frequency with which you meet with your provider will vary based on individual factors, but most women see their obstetrician about once a month until the third trimester, though some providers may increase those appointments to biweekly visits if they wish to keep a closer eye on the pregnancy for any reason. At most appointments, you will usually be weighed and your belly measured, and your provider will check in with you about any concerns or changes you are experiencing. From week 36 on, you will likely be asked to visit your doctor or midwife once a week or so to monitor your baby’s readiness to make his or her appearance and to make final decisions about your birth plan and preferences.
Conditions Obstetricians Treat
A variety of professionals see women during pregnancies, but obstetricians have advanced expertise that allows them to handle more complicated situations. Women over the age of 35 or those with pre-existing conditions may choose an obstetrician in order to receive the level of care needed to ensure a smooth labor and delivery. Women who have fertility challenges may also seek the help of an obstetrician when planning for pregnancy. Most obstetricians also perform typical well-woman gynecology care so that you can remain with one provider through life’s many stages.
Procedures That Obstetricians Perform
Most commonly, obstetricians see women for routine prenatal appointments, but their advanced training allows them to be responsive to more urgent situations that may arise during pregnancy. Obstetricians perform both vaginal and cesarean section deliveries as well as episiotomies. They are also qualified to order and often perform tests such as ultrasound, amniocentesis, biophysical profiles, and other procedures to ensure the safety of baby and mother both in utero and during delivery.
How To Get In Touch With An Obstetrician In Troy And Rochester Hills MI
If you are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant, the obstetrics team at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics And Gynecology can support you on your journey. Contact us today for an appointment.