MEDICAL DISORDERS
Hypertension
Hypertension is a relatively common disorder in pregnant women. Symptoms include high blood pressure, felling bloated and swelling, headaches and, in some cases, seizures. Your obstetrician will help you manage hypertension by regularly monitoring your blood pressure before and after delivery.
Anemia
If you suffer from anemia during your pregnancy, your doctor may recommend taking an iron or folic acid supplement, or an adjustment to your diet. You may also need to have blood tests to check your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. In severe cases, you may be referred to a hematologist, who will be able to help you manage your anemia throughout your pregnancy, and after the birth of your baby.
HIV
If you are HIV positive, you will be given antiretroviral medication through a drip during the delivery of your baby. After the birth of your baby, your doctor will discuss a post-partum medication plan for you and your child.
Fetal-maternal medicine
If you have a complicated or high-risk pregnancy, and have had heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, an autoimmune disease or infection, or have had pregnancy problems before, you may need to seek treatment from a fetal-maternal specialist. He or she will provide prenatal care throughout your pregnancy and help you to manage any health problems after you have given birth.
Childbirth
After the birth of your baby, it is essential that you return to your doctor for a check-up four to six weeks after delivery. He or she will check that your vagina, cervix and uterus are healing properly, and may also conduct a breast examination. Your doctor will also follow up on any complications you may have experienced during childbirth.