What does an obstetrician do?
An obstetrician cares for women and their babies during pregnancy and childbirth. Your obstetrician is likely to be the same as your regular gynecologist. Obstetricians monitor the health of the fetus as it develops in the woman’s uterus, and makes sure the woman’s health remains good.
What is the typical appointment schedule during pregnancy?
Most women have a fairly standard set of appointments during pregnancy. You’re likely to see your obstetrician every four weeks during the first 28 weeks of pregnancy, or approximately the first two trimesters. By the third trimester, appointments are more frequent. You may see your doctor every week until the due date approaches, and more frequently as the date nears. Appointments are used to monitor your health and that of your baby’s, and some women get genetic testing done.
What are some basic guidelines for having a healthy pregnancy?
Your goals for pregnancy are to stay healthy and have a full-term, healthy baby. Stay away from alcohol and do not smoke or use drugs during pregnancy. Ask your doctor about caffeine use; most women are advised to have less than a cup of coffee a day. Also, gain the appropriate amount of weight for your body type. Women who begin pregnancy overweight should gain a little less than average, while women who start pregnancy underweight should gain a little more.
What you eat and your exercise routines also matter.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Continue to take a prenatal vitamin
- Eat fish species with a low mercury content
- Continue to exercise to tolerance if you did before pregnancy - if you didn’t, ask your obstetrician about gradually adding gentle exercise to your routine
How should I prepare for childbirth and breastfeeding?
Along with asking your obstetrician all of your questions and labor and beyond, you might consider taking classes with or without your partner. That can prepare you mentally and physically for these special occasions.
