Obstetrics

A physician who specializes in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth is called an obstetrician, and while doctors in other disciplines can deliver babies, many women choose a doctor who narrows their practice to obstetrics and female care, the classic OB/GYN physician.

When it comes to your pregnancy, your MOGA obstetrician typically becomes the primary physician managing your care. After receiving a medical degree, an obstetrician completes a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology to refine their knowledge and experience in ways that benefit your treatment. Obstetrics care may stretch from the period before fertilization up to the point where a pediatrician takes over care of your child.

If you consult with your MOGA obstetrician before you become pregnant, you may receive advice about your pre-pregnancy health as well as things you can do to get your body ready for the experience of pregnancy and childbirth. This may include advice on nutrition, exercise, and strategies for remaining healthy throughout your nine months.

Once you’re pregnant, health monitoring for both you and your child becomes crucial. As well as coping with the common physical symptoms of pregnancy, such as morning sickness, back pain, and heartburn, there are more serious conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure that can develop. Your fetus may require genetic testing, ultrasounds, and other monitoring to ensure a safe delivery.

Though fortunately rare, some pregnancies are classed as high-risk, where factors combine to create a statistically elevated chance of problems. These can include a mother with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, polycystic ovarian syndrome, thyroid disease or other disorders. Your MOGA obstetrician can watch for complications arising from high-risk factors throughout your pregnancy.

As well as providing care throughout your pregnancy, obstetricians also deliver your baby and address your post-delivery needs. Your MOGA doctors are also skilled at dealing with preterm deliveries, operative vaginal deliveries, vaginal births after a previous cesarean, and complicated cesarean deliveries. Throughout your pregnancy, you and your MOGA physician will discuss the needs and wishes that your baby’s delivery requires.