What is Obstetrics?

Obstetrics is the part of female health care that focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and the care of both mother and baby throughout the entire pregnancy cycle.

Should I See My Obstetrician if I Am Planning on Becoming Pregnant?

Absolutely. In fact, Southern Connecticut Women's Health Care Associates offers pre-conceptual counseling and affordable genetics testing that helps women determine if they are ready to have a baby, and what realistic expectations of pregnancy are. Our goal is to help women know what to expect during pregnancy, childbirth, and when becoming a parent.

When Should I See an Obstetrician?

If you decide to become pregnant or have just gotten pregnant, it is a good time to see your obstetrician. Dr. Murray, Dr. Sivkin, and Dr. Schaeffer can help you understand the process of stopping birth control, ovulation, and other intimate details of becoming pregnant.

When Should a Prenatal Visit Be Scheduled When You Become Pregnant?

As soon as you have positive confirmation that you are pregnant, you should call and schedule your first prenatal appointment. Expect to have your first appointment between four and eight weeks of pregnancy. Following the guidelines of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the doctors will arrange for a first-trimester screening which is a new non-invasive evaluation that combines a maternal blood screening test with an ultrasound evaluation of the fetus to identify risk for specific chromosomal abnormalities, including Down Syndrome. Thereafter the doctors will see you every four weeks through the second trimester unless you have an issue that warrants you to be seen more frequently. Beginning in the third trimester you will see the doctor more frequently usually once every one to two weeks until you deliver.  

What Will My Obstetrician Do During My First Prenatal Visit?

There is a lot that happens at the first prenatal visit. First, the doctor will try to determine the due date based on the date of your last period and through an obstetrical ultrasound. Obstetric ultrasounds use sound waves to produce pictures of a baby (embryo or fetus) within a pregnant woman, as well as the mother's uterus and ovaries. It does not use ionizing radiation, has no known harmful effects, and is the preferred method for monitoring pregnant women and their unborn babies.

They will take an extensive health history which sets the stage for other services, especially if there have been problems with past pregnancies or if such problems run in your family. Another goal of the health screening is to identify potential gynecological issues or genetic issues.  You may also be scheduled for a pap smear to test for HPV, STDs, and HIV. There is also time for you to ask questions. The doctor will go over what to expect and services that are available such as parenting classes, birthing classes, as well as services designed for both partners.