An obstetrician provides specialized medical care focused on pregnancy, childbirth, and women’s reproductive health. A key part of obstetrics involves a series of routine health checks designed to monitor your well-being. These examinations and tests supply your provider with information about your health throughout different stages of your life, including during pregnancy. Here are typical health checks they might perform:
1. Pelvic Exams
A pelvic exam is a physical examination of the female reproductive organs. During this check, the doctor visually and physically assesses the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. This is a standard part of a well-woman visit.
The procedure involves the doctor first looking at the external genital area for any signs of abnormalities. A speculum may be used to gently open the vaginal walls, allowing the provider to view the vagina and cervix.
The provider examines the woman and gently presses on the lower abdomen with the other hand. This action allows them to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries, checking for any tenderness or growths. This exam provides a direct way to assess the health of your pelvic organs.
2. Periodic Pap Smears
A Pap smear, or Pap test, is a procedure to test for cervical cell changes. It is often performed at the same time as a pelvic exam. The goal of this screening is to collect cells from the cervix, which is the narrow, lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
To collect the sample, doctors use a small brush or spatula to scrape cells from the surface of the cervix gently. They typically send these cells to a laboratory for analysis. Medical guidelines recommend the frequency of Pap smears based on your age and medical history. The results help your provider determine if follow-up actions are needed.
3. Regular Blood Work
Blood tests are a diagnostic tool used in obstetrics and gynecology. Your doctor may order blood work to gather a wide range of health information. These tests can screen for various conditions and monitor your overall health.
During pregnancy, doctors perform blood tests regularly. An initial blood draw typically checks for your blood type, Rh factor, and hemoglobin levels to screen for anemia. It may also test for immunity to certain infections, like rubella and chickenpox, and screen for sexually transmitted infections. This information helps your doctor track your health and your baby’s development. Outside of pregnancy, blood work might be used to check hormone levels or investigate other health concerns.
4. Prenatal Ultrasounds
A prenatal ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of a baby in the uterus. This non-invasive procedure is a standard component of prenatal care. An ultrasound allows the obstetrician to see the baby’s position, movement, and anatomy. The number and timing of ultrasounds depend on individual circumstances. An early ultrasound might confirm the pregnancy and estimate a due date.
Schedule Health Checks in Obstetrics
Regular appointments with an obstetrician include a variety of checks that provide information about your reproductive health. These examinations and tests are tailored to your specific life stage, whether you are seeking routine gynecological care or are currently pregnant. To learn more or to book an appointment for your next check-up, contact our office today.
