Seeing a pregnancy doctor, or OBGYN, is imperative, before, during and after delivery. This physician will guide you through each trimester and be there when it is time to deliver. Whether a first-time mom or having your fourth baby, you want the right doctor helping you through the pregnancy.
An OBGYN offers patients a ton of information. Included are helpful tips to ensure both the mom-to-be and the unborn fetus remain healthy:
Some women believe missing a monthly period equates to being pregnant. While that is one of the first indicators, they should still visit a pregnancy doctor for confirmation. Along with blood and urine tests, the OBGYN may perform a physical examination. However, that would likely take place if a woman believes she is roughly six to eight weeks along. Before then, the doctor would have a difficult time finding any internal changes.
With a confirmed pregnancy, women need to stop taking drugs, smoking and drinking alcohol. Along with that, a pregnancy doctor will go over the list of any prescribed medications. Sometimes, they too can have a negative effect on a growing fetus.
An OBGYN will advise the patient to make healthy food choices. The pregnancy doctor will also suggest the patient eat five to six small meals a day instead of three large ones. For one thing, this will help keep the pregnant woman’s weight within a healthy range. Also, during the second and third trimester, this can reduce heartburn.
Immediately after confirming conception, a pregnancy doctor will start the patient on prenatal vitamins. Loaded with minerals and vitamins, these accomplish two goals. First, they ensure the patient gets the required nutrients needed during the pregnancy, including calcium, iron and folic acid. Prenatal vitamins also help a growing fetus develop properly.
Typically, an OBGYN recommends a patient drink a minimum of 72-ounces of water daily. While pregnant, a woman’s vascular system becomes less responsive to changes in position. This can cause dizziness with things like going from seated to standing. Staying hydrated helps with that.
Women need to report anything of concern to their pregnancy doctor. This is especially important for first-time mothers. By doing so, the OBGYN has a much better chance of correcting an issue before it turns into something more serious.
Rather than skipping Lamaze classes, the doctor will strongly recommend them to their patients. These classes help expectant mothers and their partners gain tremendous insight into the birthing process. That way everyone knows what to do when the woman goes into labor. As a bonus, Lamaze classes are a great forum for many soon-to-be parents. Sometimes, lifelong friendships develop.
Whether with yoga, meditation or walks in the park, a pregnancy doctor will encourage their patients to reduce or eliminate stress from their lives. Ultimately, this has a positive impact on both the woman and her child.
A pregnancy doctor will help you through the process of becoming a new mom. Then, all you have to do is enjoy having an infant in your home.
Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.
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