Obstetrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum (after birth) period. An obstetrician is a specialized physician trained to monitor and manage the health of both mother and baby through all stages: before conception, during pregnancy, through labor and delivery, and during the recovery period.
Before pregnancy even begins, optimizing your health sets a crucial foundation. An obstetrician will:
Once pregnancy occurs, the first prenatal visit often happens at 6–8 weeks — your provider will confirm gestational age, review health risks, and plan ongoing care.
Routine prenatal care is the backbone of safe pregnancy. It typically includes:
Of course, for high-risk pregnancies, the schedule may be more frequent.
Some pregnancies require extra vigilance. Risk factors include:
In such cases, obstetricians collaborate with maternal-fetal medicine specialists, conduct more frequent ultrasounds, order specialized testing, and tailor care plans more responsively.
When labor begins, your obstetrician helps you navigate:
Each birth is unique — your obstetrician is prepared to adapt the birth plan as needed for safety.
After birth, care continues for both mother and baby. Postpartum obstetric support includes:
This period is just as vital as pregnancy — physical and mental health both deserve attention.
Because obstetricians often overlap with gynecologists, they also treat:
Regular screening helps prevent or manage:
These tools help detect neural tube defects, chromosomal anomalies, growth restriction, and other fetal conditions early.
Obstetricians guide you through:
Not every labor looks the same. Options include:
Discussing and planning these options in advance promotes better experiences.
Consistent monitoring and screening allow issues to be managed early, lowering risks of severe outcomes for mother and baby.
Pregnancy can bring anxiety, stress, and mood changes. A trusted obstetrician provides guidance, reassurance, and access to mental health resources.
Obstetricians craft individualized care plans, coordinate across specialties, and advocate for both maternal and fetal well-being.
What to Look For in a Qualified Specialist
