Obstetrics

C-Sections Q & A

How predominate is C-section delivery in the United States?

While the average percentage of babies delivered by C-section around the world is about 19%, in the US the rate has increased to almost 33%. It’s thought that improvements in fetal monitoring may be raising false alarms and triggering the C-section decision. There are also few standards or policies defining normal and abnormal labor experiences.

Why are C-sections done?

Vaginal deliveries are sometimes unsafe for the baby or the mother. When this situation arises, the baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen and uterus. Some of the most common reasons for C-sections include:

• Labor isn’t progressing: when labor stalls due to reasons such as insufficient cervix dilation or a baby whose head is too big to pass through the birth canal
• Heart or oxygen irregularities: if the baby’s heartbeat changes or oxygen supply is diminished
• Abnormal fetal position: breech or transverse fetal positions prevent vaginal birth
• Problems with the umbilical cord or placenta
• Mother’s medical problems: such as heart problems or high blood pressure, or to prevent passing on an infection such as HIV or genital herpes
• Previous C-section delivery: In some cases, subsequent births may be easier through another C-section

High Risk Pregnancy Q & A

What factors establish a pregnancy as high risk?

High-risk pregnancies may result from a medical condition of either mother or baby. In other cases, a pregnancy is deemed high risk based on maternal factors that may or may not cause difficulties as the pregnancy progresses. Some of these high-risk factors include:

• Maternal age: typically, women over 35 have higher statistical risk of pregnancy issues
• Medical history: previous C-sections, low-weight or preterm births, family genetic history, or history of miscarriage
• Medical conditions: mental health concerns or chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, or anemia
• Pregnancy complications: too much or too little amniotic fluid, Rh sensitization of the blood, problems with the cervix, uterus, or placenta
• Multiple pregnancies: two or more fetuses
• Lifestyle issues: cigarette, alcohol, or other drug use

I’m not pregnant, but I’m trying. Are there things I can do now to reduce risks?

If you already fit a high-risk profile or if you want to do what you can to promote a healthy pregnancy, there are many things you can do before a pregnancy to reduce associated risks.

Make an appointment with Todd M. Goldberg Obstetrics and Gynecology to speak with a doctor prior to conception. A preconception physical can pinpoint any medical concerns, or simply help you strategize a pregnancy from its earliest stages. You can discuss factors that may smooth the pregnancy ride, such as achieving a healthy weight, or starting prenatal vitamins with folic acid, and other preventive actions. The doctor will let you know if treatment of your existing medical conditions needs any adjustment during pregnancy.

Prenatal Care Q & A

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care is simply health care you receive while you’re pregnant, to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy. While your family doctor or general practitioner may provide good quality care during pregnancy, it’s not unusual to add an Ob/Gyn caregiver, such as Todd M. Goldberg Obstetrics and Gynecology, to your team for the best in preventive care.

Prenatal care starts once you know you’re pregnant, or suspect that you may be. Early, regular care is important, and every checkup along the way has a purpose. Medical supervision improves your chances for a trouble-free pregnancy.

I’m already pregnant, so what should I be doing for myself and my baby?

If you haven’t started prenatal care, call the office as soon as possible. Your doctor will assess both your health and your baby’s health, and will develop a care plan with you. This may include:

• Prenatal vitamins with folic acid, most important in the early stages of pregnancy, but necessary throughout
• A review of current medications, including over-the-counter and herbal products, in case any may put your pregnancy at risk
• A flu shot to help prevent illness during pregnancy
• A review of diet and lifestyle, including education about proper nutrition and baby-friendly activities such as moderate amounts of aerobic exercise

Todd M. Goldberg Obstetrics and Gynecology has many resources to help support you through your pregnancy.