Obstetricians are involved in many aspects of the childbirth process.
An obstetrician is a physician specializing in the management of pregnancy and childbirth. Obstetricians monitor women throughout their pregnancies, including diagnosing problems and determining necessary care. In the United States, the fields of obstetrics and gynecology are often studied concurrently. Therefore, most obstetricians also practice gynecology, which means that they specialize in the reproductive health of women as well as childbirth processes. Obstetricians go through extensive training, completing four years of college, as well as four years of medical school and three to four years in residency and internship. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage of an obstetrician in 2009 was $204,470.
Pregnancy Confirmation and Initial Visit
Obstetricians initially administer tests to confirm whether or not a patient is pregnant. Once pregnancy has been established, patients schedule an initial visit to establish prenatal care. During this visit, a due date will be established, the patient's medical history will be recorded or updated, lifestyle issues and maternal care will be discussed, and fetal screening tests will be scheduled.
Consultation
Obstetricians are often asked to consult with other physicians about the health of a particular patient or the diagnosis of a disease or ailment. For example, pregnant patients admitted to emergency rooms may require special observation or consultation by obstetricians. Obstetricians may also work together to determine an appropriate course of treatment for a particular patient or to discuss possible diagnoses.
Routine Patient Care
Because pregnant women require prenatal visits at determined intervals throughout a pregnancy, obstetricians spend much of their time caring for these patients. They monitor the health of both the mother and the fetus, keep careful medical records and record necessary data. Obstetricians treat and counsel women throughout a pregnancy, offering them options for care and decisions in the delivery of their babies. Obstetricians also administer or order tests, perform clinical examinations, advise patients regarding healthy practices, prescribe medications, monitor fetal development or movement, and diagnose prenatal diseases or problems. They may also present possible issues in fetal health and discuss options, such as genetic counseling. Additionally, obstetricians observe women for possible conditions that can arise during pregnancy. Women who have health problems before pregnancy may receive special care and checkups to ensure that they remain healthy throughout. As the pregnancy progresses, obstetricians check the position of the fetus and monitor cervical changes to help patients prepare for delivery.
Childbirth and Delivery
In addition to providing prenatal care for patients, obstetricians assist patients through childbirth. They supervise patients during delivery, order procedures and make decisions throughout the process. Obstetricians may order or administer special procedures based on needs that occur during childbirth.
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