- Obstetrics
Hercyclopedia
Obstetrics
Nurturing New Beginnings
About Obstetrics
KEY AREAS OF OBSTETRICS INCLUDE PRENATAL CARE, LABOR INDUCTION, AND POSTPARTUM CARE.
Prenatal Care
Labor and Delivery
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.
History of obstetrics
Historically, obstetrics evolved from midwifery, which women traditionally managed. The 18th century saw the rise of male practitioners called accoucheurs. This led to a gradual shift in the field. Despite initial resistance, the 19th century saw advances in obstetrics.
To reduce maternal mortality rates, healthcare providers introduced antiseptic techniques. In summary, obstetrics is vital for maternal and fetal health. It includes practices from prenatal care to postpartum recovery. It has evolved from midwifery to modern medical practice.
At every phase of your women’s health journey, our dedicated team at NariHealth is here to provide guidance, answer your queries, and facilitate connections with experienced healthcare professionals. Kindly share your contact information, and our welcoming reception team will reach out to assist you promptly.
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
What You Can Do to Ensure a Safe Delivery
If you are expecting a baby or planning to have one in the future, here are some guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery:
- Schedule a preconception appointment: If you are trying to conceive, consult your healthcare provider. If you have a medical condition or have recently been diagnosed with one, your treatment might need to be adjusted to prepare for the pregnancy.
- Seek regular prenatal care: Prenatal visits help your healthcare provider monitor your health and your baby’s health.
- Maintain a healthy diet: You’ll need more folic acid, calcium, iron, and other essential nutrients during pregnancy. Taking a daily dose of prenatal vitamins can help.
- Gain the right amount of weight: Proper weight gain supports your baby’s health and makes it easier to lose weight after delivery.
- Choose a tertiary center: These centers have all the specialty doctors available, which is beneficial for both mother and baby.
- Avoid risky substances: Stay away from cigarettes and drugs. Consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications or supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gynecologists are medical specialists who focus on women’s reproductive health, and they can provide care and treatment for a wide range of issues, including Routine Gynecological Exams, Menstrual Disorders, Contraception, Menopause Management, Gynecological Infections, Pelvic Pain and Disorders, Gynecological Cancers, Surgical Procedures, Hormone Therapy, Sexual Health and more.
The pricing of women’s health treatments should prioritize accessibility and affordability, ensuring that essential healthcare services, such as gynecological exams, prenatal care, contraception, and screenings for conditions like breast cancer and STDs, are within reach for all women. Our aim is to provide fair and transparent pricing, along with options for financial assistance, should be made available to promote women’s overall well-being and equality in healthcare.
Gynecological treatments can involve various procedures, medications, and interventions, each with its own set of risks and potential side effects. The specific risks and side effects can vary depending on the type of treatment, individual patient factors, and the underlying condition being addressed. It’s essential to discuss these risks and potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting any gynecological treatment.
The recovery time for gynecological treatments varies widely, depending on the specific treatment or procedure and individual factors. For medication-based treatments like hormonal contraception, recovery is typically immediate, with no need for downtime. In contrast, procedures such as intrauterine device (IUD) insertion often require no more than a brief recovery period, with women resuming their regular activities soon afterward. Minimally invasive procedures, such as endometrial ablation or hysteroscopy, usually entail several days to a few weeks of recovery, marked by mild discomfort, spotting, and cramping. Surgical interventions like a hysterectomy might necessitate a more extended recovery period, ranging from several weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of the surgery and individual healing. It’s essential to follow post-treatment instructions and consult with healthcare providers for personalized guidance during the recovery process, ensuring a smooth return to daily life and activities.
How an individual feels after a gynecological treatment can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of treatment or procedure, their overall health, and individual sensitivity to medical interventions. In some cases, such as medication-based treatments or the insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD), many women may feel little to no discomfort and can often resume their usual activities immediately. For minimally invasive procedures like hysteroscopy or endometrial ablation, mild discomfort, spotting, and mild cramping may be experienced for a few days to a few weeks post-treatment. Surgical interventions, such as a hysterectomy, generally entail a more extended recovery period marked by varying levels of pain or discomfort, potentially necessitating several weeks or months for a full return to regular activities.
- Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections are common gynecological conditions that can affect women of all ages. These infections can be caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites, and they often result in symptoms such as vaginal itching, discharge, discomfort, and pain.
Here are some of the most common types of vaginal infections:
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
- Yeast Infections
- Trichomoniasis
- Viral Infections
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Atrophic Vaginitis
- Non-Infectious Causes
It’s essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of a vaginal infection to seek medical attention. Accurate diagnosis is crucial because the treatment for each type of infection varies. Additionally, practicing safe sex, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding irritants can help prevent vaginal infections.
