1Pap smear (Pap test)
2STD testing
3Genetic screening
4Blood type testing
5Complete blood count (CBC)
6Urinalysis
7Ultrasound
8General diagnostic screening
Reproductive System Support & Care
If you’re pregnant or seeking to become pregnant, it’s helpful to understand what your obstetrician does.
Like gynecologists, obstetricians offer support for the female reproductive system. The primary difference between obstetricians and gynecologists is that obstetrics concerns itself with how the female reproductive system handles pregnancy. The services offered by your obstetrician or OBGYN help you through all three trimesters of pregnancy to solve many of the common problems you’ll meet.
Common Obstetric Procedures:
How Does Obstetrics Work?
Obstetric care typically covers each stage of pregnancy. That includes the first trimester, second trimester, third trimester, childbirth, and the care following childbirth. Problems met during these three stages can include being over 35 years of age, preterm labor, gestational diabetes, and hypertension during pregnancy.
Each stage of pregnancy typically includes these types of care:
First Trimester: Complete blood count, transferrable disease screening, Pap smear, urinalysis tests, gestational age checks.
Second Trimester: Ultrasound, gestational age checks, amniocentesis (for women over the age of 35).
Third Trimester: Hematocrit (blood testing, specifically for iron), glucose tests for gestational diabetes, gestational age check.
Childbirth: Labor induction (if needed), labor assistance, pain relief, Cesarean section (if needed), delivery, fetal surgery (if needed).
Obstetricians are also trained to provide emergency care and care for high-risk pregnancies. These problems can include damage to the reproductive system during pregnancy, fetal distress, and premature childbirth.
Obstetrics is an important part of your pregnancy from prenatal care to giving birth and afterwards. Be sure not to miss out on the care you and your baby need.