When you are pregnant you should not hesitate to call your doctor or midwife is something is bothering or worrying you. Sometimes physical changes can be signs of a problem. Call your doctor or midwife immediately if you: Are bleeding or leaking fluid... Read Article »
What are prenatal visits? The care that you receive from your doctor or midwife during your pregnancy are prenatal visits. Regular check-ups throughout the 40 weeks of pregnancy will help to keep you and baby healthy, identify problems if they occur,... Read Article »
What is the targeted ultrasound known as the 2nd trimester ultrasound? The best time to receive this test is between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. It lasts between 30 minutes and one hour (depending on the cooperation of your baby). An ultrasound technician... Read Article »
What tests and procedures are necessary during pregnancy? While you are pregnant your doctor or midwife may suggest a number of laboratory tests, ultrasound exams, or other screening tests. Read on to find out the basics of the most common tests done... Read Article »
What is a maternal serum marker screening test? Given between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, this blood test checks for birth defects such as Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18, or open neural tube defects. How is the test performed? Your doctor will take a sample... Read Article »
What is chorionic villus sampling (CVS)? This test is performed between 10 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. The doctor inserts a needle through your abdomen or inserts a catheter through your cervix in order to reach the placenta. Your doctor then takes a sample... Read Article »
Typically done between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, this new type of screening uses an ultrasound and blood test to calculate the risk of some birth defections. Doctors use the ultrasound exam to check the thickness of the back of the fetus’ neck.... Read Article »
During the first prenatal visit, you can expect your doctor or nurse to do the following: ask about your health history including diseases, operations, or prior pregnancies ask about your family’s health history do a complete physical exam do a... Read Article »
Your doctor will give you a schedule of all the doctor’s visits you should have while pregnant. As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll see the doctor more often. Most experts suggest you see your doctor: About once each month for the first... Read Article »
What Is An Amniocentesis? Why Is An Amniocentesis Performed? When Is An Amniocentesis Performed? How Accurate Is An Amniocentesis? What Disorders & Defects Can An Amniocentesis Detect? What Are The Risks of An Amniocentesis? Choosing If An Amniocentesis... Read Article »
