How an obstetrician helps to keep you and your baby safe
Posted on: 21 March 2020
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Obstetricians are doctors who are trained in the health care of pregnant women and mothers and their babies. They may be involved at many stages of the pregnancy and birth. Here are some of the things that an obstetrician might do for you.
Help with the pregnancy
You may see an obstetrician several times while you are pregnant, so they can provide you with information and help to ensure the pregnancy is successful and comfortable. They may send you for various tests or ultrasound scans and will be able to discuss the results with you, ensuring that both you and the baby are in good health. They will also be able recommend any changes in your lifestyle you may have to make in order to secure the health of your baby. Their role at this stage will be ensure that the pregnancy goes without any hitches and that you are well informed about what is going on. You should be sure to ask any questions you have about your pregnancy, as the obstetrician will be well placed to answer and reassure you.
Help with the birth
Your obstetrician will probably be available at the birth — although you may be cared for by another obstetrician from the same team, and they may not need to be present if there are no problems or complications. Obstetricians are trained to perform any procedures or operations that are necessary, such as a caesarean, and will be able to ensure that you and your new baby remain healthy and safe if there are any unforeseen circumstances.
Give post-natal care
Your obstetrician will be less involved after the birth. If there were any complications, they will probably want to check up on you and your baby; however, you will probably then be in the care of other health professionals. You may, however, see an obstetrician again around six months after giving birth, so they can check on your progress and ensure that you have physically and mentally recovered from the birth. They will also be able to give you any advice on issues such as future births, contraception and any concerns you have about your sexual health.
Your obstetrician is there to look after the wellbeing of you and your baby. Make sure you raise any concerns you have with them, and they will be able to ensure that your pregnancy runs as smoothly as possible.