OB-GYN Care During Pregnancy: What to Expect
OBGYN Charleston Care during pregnancy is essential to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing baby. Prenatal care involves regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and identify any potential complications. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect during OB-GYN care during pregnancy.
First Trimester
During the first trimester, which lasts from weeks 1 to 12, the healthcare provider will ask about the mother’s medical history, perform a physical exam, and run some routine tests. These tests may include a blood test to check for anemia and to determine blood type, a urine test to check for pregnancy-related complications, and a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer.
The healthcare provider will also perform an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and to check for any possible complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. They will also provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes that may be necessary to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Second Trimester
The second trimester, which lasts from weeks 13 to 28, is when the baby’s development begins to accelerate. During this time, the healthcare provider will continue to monitor the mother’s health and the baby’s development. They may perform an ultrasound to check for any abnormalities or to determine the gender of the baby.
The healthcare provider will also perform a glucose tolerance test to screen for gestational diabetes, a condition that can develop during pregnancy. They will also monitor the mother’s blood pressure and weight and provide guidance on nutrition and exercise to support a healthy pregnancy.
Third Trimester
The third trimester, which lasts from weeks 29 to 40, is when the baby’s development is almost complete, and the focus shifts to preparing for delivery. During this time, the healthcare provider will continue to monitor the mother’s health and the baby’s development. They may perform an ultrasound to check the baby’s position and estimate the size and weight.
The healthcare provider will also perform a group B strep test to check for a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections in newborns. They will also provide guidance on preparing for labor and delivery, including breathing exercises, pain management options, and what to expect during delivery.
Postpartum Care
After delivery, the healthcare provider will continue to monitor the mother’s health and well-being. They will perform a physical exam to check for any complications, such as bleeding or infection. They will also provide guidance on breastfeeding, postpartum depression, and birth control options.
Overall, OB-GYN care during pregnancy is essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help identify potential complications early on and provide guidance on how to support a healthy pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, be sure to schedule regular prenatal appointments with your healthcare provider.
For more information on OBGYN Charleston care during pregnancy, visit https://www.kiranpatelmd.com/services/obgyn.
