About Obstetrics
Obstetrics is a branch of medicine. It cares for women during pregnancy and childbirth. It also diagnoses and treats diseases of the female reproductive organs.
It focuses on women’s health, covering menopause, hormone issues, contraception, and infertility. It is often combined with gynecology to form the field of obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN).
Key areas of obstetrics include prenatal care, labor induction, and postpartum care.
KEY AREAS OF OBSTETRICS INCLUDE PRENATAL CARE, LABOR INDUCTION, AND POSTPARTUM CARE.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is vital for a healthy pregnancy. It includes regular check-ups to monitor the mother and fetus. During visits, doctors conduct blood tests for infections and genetic disorders. They also do ultrasounds.
They check fetal growth and screen for conditions like Down syndrome and cystic fibrosis. Early detection of issues allows for timely intervention, reducing health risks. For example, a problematic blood test may lead to further testing or specialist care.
Similarly, an ultrasound showing issues might require extra monitoring or a referral. In summary, prenatal care is key. It keeps both mother and baby healthy during and after pregnancy.
Labor and Delivery
When a mother’s or baby’s health is at risk, we must induce labor. It’s a vital medical intervention. For instance, if a woman develops pre-eclampsia, it can cause serious complications. Inducing labor can prevent further harm.
Similarly, if the fetus is in distress, labor induction can help ensure a safe delivery. Obstetricians oversee labor. They monitor the mother and baby’s well-being. They can also administer pain relief to make the experience more comfortable.
Sometimes, a cesarean action date may be necessary to ensure a safe delivery. Obstetricians train to perform this surgery if needed. By intervening at the right moment, obstetricians can minimize risks. This ensures the best outcome for both mother and baby.
Postpartum Care
HERE IS A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO THE OBSTETRIC PROCESS. IT COVERS CONCEPTION TO POSTPARTUM CARE.
1. Preconception Care
2. Conception
– Understanding Fertility: Knowledge of the ovulation cycle and optimal timing for conception.
– Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Procedures like IVF for couples facing infertility.
3. First Trimester (0-13 weeks)
– Confirmation of Pregnancy: A home pregnancy test, then a blood test or ultrasound.
– Initial Prenatal Visit: A full assessment. It includes a medical history, a physical exam, and baseline tests (e.g., blood and urine tests).
– Early Ultrasound: To confirm gestational age and check for multiple pregnancies.
– Screening Tests: First-trimester tests for chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., nuchal translucency scan, blood tests).
Tests During Pregnancy: First Trimester (Week 1- Week12)
- Beta HCG
- Antenatal screening
- Test for vitamin D levels
- Double marker test
- Ultrasound NT Scan
- Early Pregnancy USG
4. Second Trimester (14-26 weeks)
– Routine Visits: Every 4 weeks. They monitor weight, blood pressure, and fetal heartbeat.
– Anatomy Scan: A detailed ultrasound at 18-20 weeks to check fetal development and anatomy.
– Glucose Screening: For gestational diabetes, around 24-28 weeks.
– Rho(D) Immune Globulin: Administration if the mother is Rh-negative.
Tests During Pregnancy: Second Trimester (Week 13- Week 26)
- Pelvic Exam
- Pap Smear (Cervical Cancer Screening)
- Breast Exam
- Blood Pressure Measurement
- Blood Count (Complete Blood Count, CBC)
5. Third Trimester (27-40 weeks)
– Frequent Visits: Every 2 weeks, then weekly after 36 weeks.
Tests During Pregnancy: Third Trimester (Week 27- Week 40)
- USG Scan
- HIV Screening
- Group B Streptococcus Test
- Blood test to check for anemia (Iron profile)
- Doppler Pregnancy
- Fetal Echo
Why is obstetrics important?
    Obstetrics plays a crucial role in:
- By monitoring the mother and baby, obstetricians can spot risks. They can then provide timely interventions to prevent complications and improve outcomes.
- Skilled care during labor and delivery saves mothers and babies. It reduces maternal and infant mortality. Obstetricians provide this care.
- Comprehensive gynecological care helps women stay healthy.
- Obstetricians help women make informed choices about their reproductive health and family planning. They do this by providing information, guidance, and support.
High-Risk Pregnancy Factors
Here are some factors that can classify a pregnancy as high-risk:
- Teenage pregnancy or pregnancy above the age of 35.
- Women with a history of repeated pregnancy losses, preterm deliveries, or preeclampsia (high blood pressure with swelling).
- A previous history of gestational diabetes or any other medical disorders, including psychiatric illnesses.
- Conditions like placenta praevia, antepartum bleeding, or preterm premature rupture of membranes.
- Preexisting conditions such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, anemia, blood disorders, hemoglobin issues, platelet disorders, and liver problems.
- History of thromboembolism (blood clots that have moved to block blood vessels), strokes, or heart attacks.
- Autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, other endocrine disorders, or kidney issues.
- Lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking alcohol, substance abuse, and obesity.
- Neurological problems like epilepsy, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, cerebral venous thrombosis, and psychiatric illnesses.
Specific Symptoms to Look Out For
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following during pregnancy:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Decreased fetal movement
- Lower abdominal pain or cramps
- Watery vaginal discharge (gush or trickle)
- Regular or frequent contractions (tightening in the abdomen)
- Pain or burning during urination
- Changes in vision, including blurred vision
- Persistent headaches
Frequently Asked Questions
Your first scan is usually done at 6–8 weeks to confirm pregnancy and heartbeat.
Up to 28 weeks: Once a month
28–36 weeks: Every 2 weeks
36–40 weeks: Every week
Avoid raw/undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk, excess caffeine, alcohol, and street foods.
Yes. 30 minutes of walking daily is safe unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Travel is generally safe till 28–32 weeks. Always consult your doctor if you have high-risk conditions.
Disclaimer: Results and patient experiences may vary. These are dependent on a number of factors including age, medical history, lifestyle and more.