Obstetrics is a branch of medicine that concentrates on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. At Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates of Dallas, your obstetrician is your primary care provider during your pregnancy journey, working to ensure a safe and healthy delivery. The practice offers high-quality obstetrics services for women who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant.
Prenatal exams provide very important information about the health of the mother and the baby. The first exam will include evaluation of the mother's health, the status of the baby usually with ultrasound, establishment of the due date, blood work, urinalysis, and any historical health information of the mother including genetic family history. Discussion of early pregnancy symptoms and management of those symptoms are discussed in detail.
The mother will be weighed, and have her blood pressure, pulse, and urine evaluated. Vaccinations will be given if needed, and the baby's heartbeat will be recorded. A sonogram for anatomy will be ordered between 18-20 weeks of pregnancy. Additional sonograms may be performed at certain times of the pregnancy. Information about normal pregnancy symptoms is discussed along with when to call if any problems or concerns arise.
High-risk pregnancies are those in which the health of the mother or baby requires extra attention. Additional testing or special care during the pregnancy is to assure the baby and mother stay healthy through the process. Common causes may include:
Most women see the obstetrician every 4 weeks until 28 weeks of pregnancy, then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, then every week until the delivery. High-risk pregnancies may require more visits.