Midwifery, Maternal Health and Gynecology

Obstetrics

Obstetrics is the branch of medicine concerned with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. It focuses on the health of the mother and baby throughout the perinatal period. Obstetric care aims to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the early postpartum period. It involves a combination of regular monitoring, timely intervention, and support to manage and prevent complications.

Key Areas in Obstetrics

1. Prenatal Care

Purpose: To monitor the health of both mother and fetus throughout pregnancy.

Components:

Regular check-ups to monitor fetal growth,  maternal health, and address any complications.
Routine screenings and tests (e.g., blood tests, ultrasounds, glucose tolerance tests).
Education on pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

2. Labor and Delivery

Labor Stages:

Early Labor: Initial contractions and cervical dilation.
Active Labor: More intense contractions and rapid cervical dilation.
Transition: The final phase before delivery.

Delivery Methods:

Vaginal Delivery: The baby is born through the birth canal.
Cesarean Section (C-Section): Surgical delivery through an incision in the abdomen if vaginal delivery is not possible or safe.

Pain Management:

Medications: Epidurals, analgesics.
Non-Medical Methods: Breathing techniques, relaxation methods.

3. Postpartum Care

Purpose: To ensure recovery and health after childbirth.

Components:

Monitoring recovery from delivery, managing any complications.
Support for breastfeeding and infant care.
Addressing physical and emotional changes, including postpartum depression.

4. High-Risk Obstetrics

Managing pregnancies with increased risk due to  maternal or fetal conditions.

Conditions:

Preterm Birth: Delivery before 37 weeks.
Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
Preeclampsia: High blood pressure and possible organ dysfunction.
Multiple Gestations: Pregnancy with twins, triplets, etc.