When you’re expecting a baby or planning to start a family, you may encounter the term obstetrics. Here you will find more about the role of an obstetrician before, during, and after pregnancy. You will also find information on the conditions they address, the services they provide and when it’s time to consult one.
What Is an Obstetrician?
An obstetrician, often referred to as an OB, is a medical doctor specializing in obstetrics, which focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Obstetricians are trained to provide medical and surgical care to support expecting parents from conception to delivery and beyond. Working alongside midwives, gynecologists, and family doctors, OBs take part in developing a care plan that suits the needs of each individual. While obstetricians may overlap with gynecologists in some areas, obstetrics specifically deals with pregnancy-related care and overseeing the health of both the parent and baby during this period.
What Does an Obstetrician Treat?
Obstetricians are trained to manage the medical and healthcare needs surrounding pregnancy. They provide care for both routine and high-risk pregnancies and a wide range of other conditions. Some areas an obstetrician may address include:
- Monitoring maternal health throughout pregnancy
- Managing conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia
- Addressing complications like preterm labor or placenta previa
- Providing expertise in multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets)
They are also skilled in handling emergencies that might arise during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
What Services Do Obstetricians Provide?
Obstetricians provide a broad range of services tailored to meet the needs of pregnant individuals. These include, but are not limited to:
- Regular Prenatal Visits: Monitoring your physical health, tracking your baby’s growth, and conducting routine tests like ultrasounds and blood work.
- Labor and Delivery Care: Supporting vaginal deliveries and performing cesarean sections when necessary.
- Postpartum Care: Assisting with recovery after childbirth, checking for any postpartum complications, and offering guidance.
- High-Risk Pregnancy Management: Offering specialized care for pregnancies involving medical or genetic concerns.
- Family Planning Counseling: Advising on fertility treatments, birth control options, and preparing for future pregnancies.
Why Do You See an Obstetrician?
People may choose to see an obstetrician for several reasons. An OB can confirm pregnancy and begin early prenatal care. They provide professional guidance on patient health and the health of the baby during pregnancy. Patients can also talk to their OB about any possible complications, concerns, or specific needs.
Obstetricians also offer advice on various birthing options, particularly if the patient prefers or requires hospital-based care. They can help with creating a pregnancy and delivery plan that is as safe and stress-free as possible. Meeting with your OB from the beginning will help you feel more prepared throughout the pregnancy.
When Do You See an Obstetrician?
OBs provide a foundation for prenatal care and help set patients up for a healthy pregnancy. You may want to see an OB if you have underlying medical conditions that may affect your pregnancy or if you experience unusual symptoms, such as bleeding, severe pain, or decreased fetal movements. Visiting an OB is also advised if your pregnancy is classified as high-risk due to age, multiples, or health history. Whether it’s your first pregnancy or you’ve welcomed children before, an obstetrician can guide you through every step.
Partner With an Obstetrics Expert for Your Pregnancy
An obstetrician is equipped to care for both you and your baby throughout your entire pregnancy. From prenatal care to postpartum checks, their expertise supports your health and comfort at each stage. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to a trusted obstetrician near you or speak with your healthcare provider for a recommendation.
