The Benefits of Seeing An Obstetrician: A Comprehensive Guide

Obstetrician Checking pregnant woman

If you, like so many people, think an obstetrician (OB-GYN) is a medical doctor trained strictly in managing pregnancies, labor, and childbirth, think again.

While an OB-GYN does specialize in that area, they also have specialized training in the female reproductive system and surgical care. As such, they are also focused on the detection and management of both obstetrical and gynecological problems and offer a variety of women’s health services that may include:

  • Annual gynecologic exams, including Pap smears and breast exams
  • Contraceptive counseling
  • Infertility diagnosis and treatment
  • Labor and birth care
  • Menopause management
  • Prenatal care
  • Sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment
  • Treatment for acute and chronic conditions, such as endometriosis

Whether OB-GYNs practice in a private office, with or without a group of physicians, or in a hospital or clinic setting, there are advantages to having an OB-GYN for your gynecologic needs.

BENEFITS OF USING AN OB-GYN

An OB-GYN has specialized training to advise you and manage any complications if yours is a high-risk pregnancy. Factors that can make a pregnancy high-risk include:

  • If you are still a teenager or a woman over the age of 35.
  • If you have an existing health condition, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or an autoimmune disease.
  • If you indulge in lifestyle activities such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs during pregnancy.
  • If you have certain health factors or conditions specific to pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure after the 20th week of pregnancy), a multiple pregnancy (e.g., twins, triplets), or experienced a previous preterm birth.

OB-GYNs have specialized training to manage pregnancy complications, as well as access to advanced medical technology such as ultrasound and genetic testing, and specialized surgical training if a cesarean (C-section) birth becomes necessary. Some of the most common conditions that OB-GYNs help manage include hypertension, morning sickness, aches and pain, miscarriages, infections, placental abruption, and genetic disorders.

Besides monitoring your general wellness before, during, and after pregnancy, an OB-GYN also monitors your baby’s health in the womb and immediately after delivery.

OBSTETRICIAN-GYNECOLOGIST IN WOOSTER, OHIO

At Wooster Community Hospital’s Women’s Pavilion, we have a top-notch obstetrical team that provides expert care and the resources required to make the birth of your baby a cherished, memorable occasion.

Both our nursing staff and providers offer flexibility in the labor and delivery experience to accommodate your birth plans and respect your wishes. We offer unique birthing arrangements after delivery, such as rooming-in, where your newborn’s crib is kept by the side of your bed, and at least a full hour of uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact is encouraged.

In addition to providing compassionate maternity care, our obstetricians offer guidance on issues common to pregnancy and counseling for postnatal depression. Plus, we offer breastfeeding support services that are available in person or via our telehealth services.

Best of all, the Women’s Pavilion is a Level II maternity service. That way, if any complications arise before or after delivery, you and your baby can be appropriately cared for. Wooster Community Hospital collaborates with Akron Children’s Hospital to offer a Special Care Nursery for newborns requiring additional medical support. As such, families do not have to be separated for certain high-risk conditions.

To learn more about our comprehensive obstetrics services, contact the Women’s Pavilion at (330) 202-5540.