Obstetrics And VBAC Specialist

What happens in a prenatal exam?

Having regular prenatal exams is vitally important for both you and your baby. Each exam includes different evaluations based on the stage of your pregnancy and the underlying health of you and your baby. All exams include evaluations of weight and blood pressure, and most include measurements of your belly, urine testing, and evaluations of the fetal heartbeat, as well as evaluations of your own heart and lungs. Dr. Salsbury checks for swelling in your hands and feet and other issues that can be signs of an underlying problems. Some exams include blood tests and an ultrasound to check on the health and development of the baby.

During each exam, Dr. Salsbury provides you with information on what to expect during the subsequent weeks and what you can (and should) do to stay healthy. You probably need to take prenatal vitamins to ensure you get the right nutrients for you and your baby, but you shouldn’t take any other vitamins, supplements, or over-the-counter medicines without talking to Dr. Salsbury first. Most moms-to-be visit the office every month until about week 28 of their pregnancy, then every other week until a few weeks before delivery when visits are weekly.

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is a pregnancy where the health of the mother, the baby, or both are at risk. The most common causes of high-risk pregnancies include:

• Older age
• Smoking
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Obesity
• Having hypertension (high blood pressure) or diabetes prior to pregnancy or developing one or both during pregnancy
• Certain medical treatments including chemotherapy and radiation
• Some underlying genetic conditions
• Being pregnant with multiples
• Having had several prior miscarriages

Women who have high-risk pregnancies typically have more frequent office visits as well as additional testing to ensure they and their babies stay healthy all the way through delivery.

Can I have a vaginal delivery after a previous C-section?

Yes, many women have vaginal delivery after a C-section, or VBAC (vaginal birth after C-section). Many women prefer VBAC because recovery following a vaginal delivery is faster and more comfortable compared to recovery following a C-section. VBAC also reduces the potential risks associated with multiple C-sections. If you’ve had a C-section in the past and you’d like to have a vaginal delivery, Dr. Salsbury reviews your medical history, including the reasons for your prior C-section, and combined with ongoing prenatal exams, she is able to determine if a VBAC is a good choice for you and your baby.