Obstetric Procedures
Gentle hands OBGYN is currently not accepting OB patients
Below is a guide to all of the obstetric procedures offered by Gentle Hands OBGYN. Explore the topic areas, read the brief descriptions of the procedures, and click through to learn more specific information about preparing for the procedure, and what you should expect after the procedure.
It’s important to note that this information is not completely comprehensive, and is intended to provide an overview of the procedure and your care. You should always have a thorough discussion with your physician prior to any procedure. Also, it’s important to note that, as with any procedure, there are risks, but these procedures are generally safe. Many of the risks closely associated with these procedures are very rare; once again, you should have a more detailed conversation with your physician about the risks and benefits of each procedure.
Induction of Labor
What is induction of labor?
Induction of labor means getting the process of childbirth (labor) started before it happens naturally on its own. This is done with the use of medicines or, in some cases, surgical methods.
Cervical Ripening
What is cervical ripening?
During pregnancy, the cervix is closed to keep the baby inside the uterus. Once in labor, the cervix needs to open, or dilate, wide enough to let the baby come through. When the cervix changes from being closed and firm to soft and thin, this is called cervical ripening.
Cesarean Section
What is a cesarean section?
A cesarean section is an operation that delivers a baby through a cut in your abdomen and uterus. The uterus is the muscular organ at the top of the vagina. Babies develop in the uterus, and menstrual blood comes from the uterus. This procedure is also called a C-section.
External Cephalic Version
What is external cephalic version?
External cephalic version is the changing of a baby’s position in the uterus by manipulation of the mother’s abdomen. Usually it is done to turn a breech baby to a vertex (headfirst) position. A breech baby’s bottom or feet are in position to come out before the head during delivery though the birth canal. Such a delivery may be hazardous. For example, the baby’s head may become trapped in the mother’s cervix. If the baby is moved to a headfirst position, you may avoid having a vaginal breech delivery or cesarean section.
Circumcision
What is a circumcision?
Circumcision means cutting off the foreskin, or ring of tissue, that covers the head of the penis. It is usually done the day your newborn goes home from the hospital.
Fewer children in the U.S. are being circumcised now than several years ago. In 1979, 90 % of American males were circumcised compared to 60% now. The following information should help you decide what is best for your son.
Dilation & Evacuation
What is a Dilation & Evacuation?
Dilation & evacuation (D&E) is one of the methods used when a woman is having a miscarriage. A D&E is done to completely remove all of the tissue in the uterus after confirmation of no fetal heart tones or severe fetal abnormalities in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Cerclage
What is cerclage?
Treatment for cervical incompetence is a surgical procedure called cervical cerclage, in which the cervix is sewn closed during pregnancy. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus and extends into the vagina. A cervical cerclage procedure may be used if a woman’s cervix is at risk of opening under the pressure of the growing pregnancy. A weak cervix may be the result of:
- History of second-trimester miscarriages
- A previous “cone biopsy” or a “LEEP” procedure
- Damaged cervix by pregnancy termination
Myomectomy
What is myomectomy?
Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. It allows the uterus to be left in place and, for some women, makes pregnancy more likely than before. Myomectomy is the preferred fibroid treatment for women who want to become pregnant. After myomectomy, your chances of pregnancy may be improved, but are not guaranteed.