Obstetrics

The pregnancy journey is an exciting and life-changing experience. Obstetricians guide women through this journey, offering support from preconception through childbirth and beyond.

Let's explore essential aspects of obstetrics, including antenatal and postnatal care, and the management of high-risk pregnancies.

Obstetrics

What is Obstetrics?

Obstetrics is a field of medicine focused on pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. It includes services aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

Obstetricians are trained to manage normal and high-risk pregnancies, and identify and treat complications that may arise. They provide comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, from preconception health assessments to postnatal follow-ups.

Preconception

Preconception care is vital for women planning to become pregnant. This stage involves a comprehensive health assessment to identify any medical conditions or lifestyle factors that may affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

Health Assessments: A visit to your doctor can help pinpoint any underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances or chronic conditions that need to be managed before conception.
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco—can enhance fertility and improve pregnancy outcomes. Your doctor may also recommend incorporating prenatal vitamins in your diet, especially folic acid, to support fetal development.

Prenatal Care

Once pregnancy is confirmed, regular prenatal care becomes essential for both mother and baby. Prenatal visits help monitor the pregnancy’s progress and address any potential issues early on.

What to Expect: During your first visit, your obstetrician will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and check for symptoms you may be experiencing. Subsequent visits typically include monitoring the baby's growth, checking your vital signs, and discussing any concerns you may have.
Essential Tests and Screenings: Routine tests, such as blood tests and ultrasounds, are carried out to monitor your health and the baby's development. These may include genetic screenings and blood tests to assess for conditions like gestational diabetes.
Nutrition and Wellness: Proper nutrition is crucial during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will offer guidance on dietary needs, recommend prenatal vitamins, and discuss physical activity to support overall well-being.

Antenatal and Postnatal Care

Antenatal and postnatal care encompasses the support provided during pregnancy and the crucial period following childbirth.

Antenatal Care: Throughout your pregnancy, your obstetrician will recommend a schedule of regular check-ups to monitor your health and that of your baby. They will ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations and screenings and offer advice on managing common pregnancy symptoms.
Postnatal Care: After delivery, follow-up appointments are vital for assessing recovery and addressing any physical or emotional challenges. Postnatal care focuses on healing, mental health support, and guidance for breastfeeding.
Support for Breastfeeding and Mental Health: Many women experience challenges with breastfeeding. Your doctor can offer strategies to promote successful breastfeeding and connect you with lactation consultants. Additionally, screening for postpartum depression is essential, as mental health support is crucial to a new mother's recovery.

Labour and Delivery Options

In labour and delivery, women have various options to consider. Being aware of these options can help you make informed decisions about your birth plan.

Natural Birth

Many women opt for a natural childbirth experience, emphasising minimal medical intervention. This may involve using relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and movement to manage pain.

Medicated Birth

For those seeking pain relief, there are several medical options available, including epidurals and intravenous medications. Discussing these options with your obstetrician can help you determine the best approach for your situation.

Cesarean Section Delivery (C-Section)

In some cases, a cesarean delivery may be necessary for the health and safety of the mother or baby. This open surgery can be planned in advance or performed as an emergency intervention during labour.

Discuss your preferences and concerns with your obstetrician to develop a personalised birth plan that aligns with your wishes and medical needs.

Complications
(High-Risk Pregnancies)

Some pregnancies are classified as high-risk, requiring closer monitoring and specialised care by an obstetrician. Understanding the complexities of high-risk pregnancies is essential for ensuring both mother and baby are healthy.

Understanding High-Risk Pregnancies: Various factors can contribute to a high-risk pregnancy, including advanced maternal age, pre-existing health conditions, or complications in previous pregnancies.
Common Complications and Their Management: Conditions such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia may arise. Your obstetrician will oversee your health and the baby's development, providing necessary interventions to manage these conditions effectively.
The Role of The Obstetrician: In high-risk cases, your obstetrician will proactively manage complications, coordinating care with specialists as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Obstetric Services in Singapore

Obstetrics is a vital field dedicated to supporting women through the transformative pregnancy experience. At Pacific Healthcare Specialist Centre, we offer a comprehensive range of obstetric services to support women throughout their pregnancy journey.

Our dedicated team of obstetricians in Singapore and healthcare professionals will provide comprehensive obstetric care designed to meet the unique needs of each expectant mother. If you want to conceive, are currently pregnant, or still figuring out the postpartum period, we are here to support you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose an obstetrician?

When selecting an obstetrician for yourself, check their qualifications, experience, and approach to care. Finding someone you feel comfortable with who aligns with your birth preferences and values is essential.

How often should I visit my obstetrician during pregnancy?

Typically, prenatal visits occur every four weeks during the first 28 weeks, every two weeks until 36 weeks, and then weekly until delivery. Your obstetrician may adjust this schedule based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Are there signs of complications that I should be aware of?

Common signs of potential complications include severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, persistent headaches, vision changes, or reduced fetal movement. If you have concerning symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

What options are available for pain management during delivery?

Pain management options during delivery may include epidurals, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and intravenous pain medications. Your obstetrician will discuss these options to help determine what might work best for your situation.

How soon can I resume normal activities after childbirth?

Recovery times can vary, but many women can go back to doing light activities within a few weeks after delivery. Your obstetrician will provide guidance based on your individual recovery progress and whether you had a vaginal birth or cesarean section.

What should I expect during my first appointment with an obstetrician?

During your first appointment, your obstetrician will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may request baseline blood tests, urine analysis, and antenatal screening relevant to your gestational age. You’ll discuss your pregnancy journey, estimated due date, lifestyle habits, and any concerns you may have.

This is also a great time to ask questions about prenatal care, supplements, and what to expect during pregnancy. The goal is to ensure both you and your baby receive comprehensive, personalised care from the start.

What qualifies as a high risk pregnancy?

A high risk pregnancy is one where there are greater chances of complications for the mother, baby, or both. Risk factors include advanced maternal age, pre-existing health conditions (like diabetes or hypertension), previous pregnancy complications, multiple gestations (twins or more), and certain lifestyle factors.

Your obstetrician will closely monitor your pregnancy, recommend necessary tests, and create a customised care plan to help reduce risks and support a safe delivery.

Obstetrics

What is Obstetrics?

Preconception

Prenatal Care

Antenatal and Postnatal Care

Labour and Delivery Options

Natural Birth

Medicated Birth

Cesarean Section Delivery (C-Section)

Complications
(High-Risk Pregnancies)

Obstetric Services in Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions

Make an Appointment

Contact Information

Services

Obstetrics

What is Obstetrics?

Preconception

Prenatal Care

Antenatal and Postnatal Care

Labour and Delivery Options

Natural Birth

Medicated Birth

Cesarean Section Delivery (C-Section)

Complications (High-Risk Pregnancies)

Obstetric Services in Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions

Make an Appointment

Contact Information

Services

Complications
(High-Risk Pregnancies)