7 Tips for Navigating Pregnancy Complications

Meet Your Perinatologist

Maternal-fetal medicine specialists (perinatologists) are obstetricians that focus on caring for abnormal or high-risk pregnancies. If your pregnancy or labor are (or are likely to be) abnormal, your doctor may consult with a perinatologist.

Ask if you can meet with your perinatologist by phone or request an in-office consultation. Depending on your specific situation, a perinatologist may consult with you and your OB, or he may assume care of your pregnancy until you deliver.

Develop a Relationship with Your Doctor

Most pregnancies are well-managed by an OB, even when there are problems. Being confident in and comfortable with your doctor is essential. If you don't feel that your doctor is taking good care of you, discuss this with him or her. And if you are still not reassured, it is time to seek out another opinion or look for a new doctor.

Keep Prenatal Doctor Appointments

Regular prenatal care is very important. Even if you feel great, continue to keep your prenatal appointments with your OB or consultations with your periontologist. You and Baby need those visits to ensure you're both healthy and on track throughout your first, second, and third trimesters.

Prenatal care helps identify and correct problems with you and your fetus. If the problem cannot be corrected before birth, preparations can be made to provide optimal treatment at delivery.

Finding out that your pregnancy has problems is frightening but it is almost always better than being surprised during labor and delivery. Taking action now to better understand your condition will help both you and Baby in the long run.

Knowledge is power! Speak with your doctor often and develop relationships with your nurses. During this sometimes frightening time, focus on empowering yourself and don't be afraid to lean on family and friends for support.