Pregnancy Specialist

What is pre-pregnancy planning?

Pre-pregnancy planning, also called preconception counseling, identifies lifestyle habits and health conditions that would negatively affect a pregnancy. Your provider can then treat the problems and help you achieve optimum health before you get pregnant.

Many health conditions affect your ability to carry a full-term pregnancy, as well as the health of your baby. For example, a folic acid deficiency causes neural tube defects, obesity makes you more likely to have a miscarriage, and uncontrolled diabetes increases your risk of preterm delivery and a low birth weight baby.

During a pre-pregnancy consultation, your provider reviews your medical history and conditions that could affect a pregnancy and the details of prior pregnancies.

They also learn about current symptoms, medications you may take, and vaccinations you may need. Then they create a treatment plan that helps you achieve optimal health and wellbeing.

What care will I receive during my pregnancy?

Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology provides comprehensive prenatal care throughout your pregnancy. You have regular appointments to monitor your health and your baby's growth during your prenatal care. You also learn about nutrition, birthing options, and what to expect during delivery. 

You receive routine tests for health problems that affect you and your baby, like anemia and gestational diabetes. Your provider also performs ultrasounds to evaluate your baby's health.

Some women have an early ultrasound at their first visit to verify their pregnancy; however, all women have an ultrasound around 20 weeks. During your 20-week ultrasound, your provider assesses your baby's development and may be able to determine their gender.

What does it mean to have a high-risk pregnancy?

The Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology team provides exceptional care for women who have a high-risk pregnancy. In most cases, they schedule more frequent prenatal appointments to quickly identify early signs of potential problems.

A high-risk pregnancy occurs when a condition arises that puts the health of you and your baby at risk. The most common causes of a high-risk pregnancy include:

• Carrying more than one baby
• Risk of premature labor
• Mother aged 35 and older
• Prior cesarean section
• Prior early delivery
• Prior low birth weight baby
• High blood pressure during pregnancy
• Diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)

You also have a high-risk pregnancy if you have cardiovascular disease, kidney disease,  thyroid disorder, or other chronic health conditions.

Whether you want to plan for pregnancy or you're already pregnant, call Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology or book an appointment online today.