Obstetrics Specialist

What is obstetrics? How is different from gynecology?

Obstetrics specifically relates to the care and treatment of pregnant women, while gynecology covers women’s reproductive health. Obstetricians often also specialize in gynecology and provide care to women throughout their lives. While a woman is pregnant the obstetrician performs certain services, including:

• Answering any questions about pregnancy, fetal development, and labor and delivery
• Monitoring the health of the mother and developing baby during routine visits
• Helping patients with common pregnancy complaints including heartburn, leg and back pain, and morning sickness

How often do I need to see the doctor while I'm pregnant?

Most women will need to see their doctor every month for the first seven months or so, then biweekly until week 36, and then once a week until the baby is born. Women who have high-risk pregnancies are seen more often. High-risk pregnancies are classified as when the health of the mother or baby is compromised and could result in higher risks during gestation or delivery. Some of the conditions that cause high-risk pregnancies include:

• High blood pressure or diabetes (either pre-existing or developing during pregnancy)
• Smoking
• Being overweight or obese
• Alcohol or drug use
• Older age
• Having had several miscarriages in the past
• Being pregnant with more than one baby
• Having certain diseases or undergoing certain treatments for disease

What happens during the prenatal evaluation?

The prenatal evaluation and exam will include several routine health checks and tests, including blood work, obtaining weight and blood pressure, and a collection of urine samples. As the pregnancy progresses, Dr. Tabas will monitor the growth and development of the baby with ultrasounds and will regularly check the heart rate of the fetus. Once the exam is complete, expectant mothers will receive guidance on what to expect during the few weeks until their next appointment, and they'll have an opportunity to ask questions about their health and pregnancy. Prenatal checkups will take place throughout the entire course of the pregnancy, up to delivery