Obstetrics

Gestational Diabetes Treatment | C-Section Fort Worth TX | Lake Worth TX | Granbury TX

Breastfeeding

Breast-feeding (nursing) allows a new mother to feed her infant directly from her breasts. Ideally, an infant will nurse and get milk directly from the mother's nipple but, when that is not possible, milk can be expressed (pumped) from the breast and fed to the infant in a bottle. Breast-feeding provides an infant with essential vitamins, protein and fat, as well as antibodies that help the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), if physically possible, women should exclusively breast-feed their infants for at least the first 6 months of life.

Breast-feeding is beneficial to both infant and mother. In addition to providing nutrition, breast milk is easier to digest than formula, and research has indicated that it may lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Nursing is also effective at building immunity in infants, and children who nurse have a lower risk of ear infections, asthma, obesity, respiratory infections and type 2 diabetes as they get older. Breast-feeding is also beneficial to the mother in the following ways:

  • Uterus contracts and returns to normal size
  • May help with postpartum weight loss
  • Lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers
  • Saves money on formula

Breast-feeding is also a good way for a mother and her baby to bond.

We work with your pediatrician to encourage the breastfeeding of your newborn, and will help make the process as comfortable for you as possible.


Cesarean Birth

A cesarean section, also referred to as a C-section, is surgery to deliver a baby. During a c-section, a doctor surgically removes the baby through the mother's abdomen using surgical incisions in the abdomen and uterus. A C-section is considered a surgical procedure and takes place in the operating room of a hospital. A C-section may be planned by a physician ahead of time due to pregnancy complications, however in some cases, a C-section may be necessary when unexpected problems arise during labor or delivery.

The Procedure

A C-section is performed in a hospital setting and is commonly performed while the mother remains awake. Prior to the surgery, a catheter is placed in the urethra to drain urine. A spinal block is used to deliver regional anesthesia to the lower part of the mother's body (mid abdomen and below). The doctor makes an incision in the abdomen near the pubic hairline and then a second incision is made in the uterus. The baby is then delivered through the incision, the umbilical cord is cut and the placenta is also removed from the uterus. The uterus is stitched closed with dissolvable stitches, and the abdomen is closed with either stitches or staples. The catheter is usually removed from the bladder within a few hours after the surgery.

Recovery

After the C-section, the mother and baby will stay in the hospital for about 3 days. Soreness at the incision site is common and pain is treated with prescription medication. While recovering, woman may experience common symptoms that occur after giving birth, which include cramping, and vaginal bleeding or discharge for about 4 to 6 weeks. After leaving the hospital, physical activities may be limited while the incision heals and sexual intercourse should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

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Gestational Diabetes

Also known as gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that affects pregnant women. Recently announced statistics estimate that gestational diabetes affects up to 18% of all pregnancies.

Although risk factors aid in determining the chance of developing GDM, about half of all those afflicted had no risk factors whatsoever. Whether or not symptoms subside with the conclusion of pregnancy is irrelevant in the diagnosis of GDM.

We will refer you to diabetic nurse educators to help ensure the healthy growth of your baby during your third trimester.


High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

Should high blood pressure occur, we will provide appropriate testing and medication to lower your level and help minimize complications for you and your baby.

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For more information on our Obstetric Services, or to schedule an appointment, please complete our online form or call 817.346.5336.

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