Obstetrics

Preconception Care

You should schedule your first prenatal visit as early in the pregnancy as possible. During this visit a thorough medical history will be taken as well as a family history and past pregnancy history. Problems will be identified and a plan will be formulated. A thorough medical examination will be performed and including a breast exam, pap smear, chlamydia screen and cervical culture. Prenatal labs, including complete blood count, rubella titer, HIV screen (optional), VDRL, Hepatitis screen, and urinalysis. During the visit you will be informed about prenatal classes, ultrasounds, and plans for delivery.

Later in the pregnancy a full series of prenatal classes for first time parents, as well as a shorter, refresher series, are offered through the hospital.

Your nutrition during pregnancy is an important factor in assuring a healthy infant. We encourage a healthy well balanced diet including lots of fruit and vegetables.

For the first 30 weeks of your pregnancy (pregnancy lasts 40 weeks), you will be scheduled for a visit every four weeks. At 30 weeks you will begin scheduling your appointments every two weeks, and at 36 weeks you will be seen every week until you deliver. Of course this is very individualized. If you need to see us more, we are here for you.

At your regular prenatal visits we will weigh you, check your blood pressure, measure uterine size and listen for the baby's heart sounds. We will also check for swelling or any other problems that might be arising. You are encouraged to let us know of any bleeding, fluid leakage, pelvic pressure, cramps, headaches, visual changes, nausea, swelling, painful urination or constipation. These visits are our opportunity to get to know you. Please do not hesitate to discuss any questions or problems including adjusting to pregnancy, job adjustments, etc. We are here to help you with pregnancy, labor, and your new baby as comfortably as possible.

Generally, at 18 and 30 weeks gestation, ultrasounds are performed. We have found that an 18-week ultra-sound is very reassuring to us and you. This ultrasound demonstrates anatomy, placental placement, fluid and fetal movement. Many problems can be identified during this ultrasound. At the 18-week scan, gender can be determined, if this is your desire. If you have questions or reservations about ultrasounds, please feel free to discuss them with us.

All necessary lab work will be discussed with you during the appropriate time frame in your pregnancy. These lab works include blood sugar testing, triple screen for Down’s, spinal cord defect and Trisomy 18. All options will be discussed with you.

Labor and Delivery

The majority of our patients deliver at either Banner Desert Medical Center or Chandler Regional Hospital. They offer excellent obstetrical care in a quiet and relaxing environment. The staff at both hospitals fully support natural delivery and encourages bonding after the baby is born. The rooms are all private and state of the art. We find their nursing staff courteous, friendly and eager to assist patients with breast-feeding and newborn care. We have had nothing but positive reactions to these hospitals and feel that you will be pleased with the care provided.

We are happy you have chosen or are considering us to help you through your pregnancy.

The following information has been organized to guide you through your pregnancy, answer your questions, and provide you with educational resources. If you have additional questions or would like to make an appointment, please contact us.

OB Patient Information : A Comprehensive Guide Prepared by Our Office for Helping You During and After Your Pregnancy

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DISCLAIMER:
The recommendations and information provided by this Web site are designed for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to be a substitute for medical care from your physician. Always consult your physician regarding your specific condition, concerns, and questions.