Explore different types of pregnancy care options

This paid piece is sponsored by Sanford Health.

When researching where to go for your pregnancy care, there is a lot to consider. It’s important to look for somewhere that will provide safe, evidence-based options and a team that can support you throughout the whole process. Start your research by asking the questions below.

Who is going to provide my care?

You have options when it comes to choosing who will be caring for you throughout your pregnancy. At Sanford Health, OB-GYNs, family medicine providers, midwives and other specialists work together through collaboration, connection and referrals to ensure your needs and preferences are met throughout your pregnancy journey.

Each type of provider offers a slightly different take on pregnancy care. Depending on your needs and preferences, one of the options below might be a great fit for you.

Obstetrician-gynecologists, or OB-GYNs, are trained in both obstetrics and gynecology, making them experts in women’s health. Obstetrics includes pregnancy care, while gynecology involves care for all women’s health issues. Additionally, OB-GYNs have surgical expertise and can provide cesarean sections.

Family medicine providers care for all family members, from babies to seniors, and can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Over time, family medicine providers get to know you well and understand all aspects of your health. For some, this provides an added level of comfortability and trust throughout their pregnancy care. Be sure to confirm that your family medicine provider offers prenatal care and will deliver babies.

Midwives take a holistic approach to women’s health care. Their philosophy focuses on educating patients and encouraging them to make choices for themselves. Typically, they will see women with low-risk pregnancies. Some people may be surprised to learn that in addition to pregnancy care, midwives provide a full suite of women’s health services, including gynecologic care, Pap tests, family planning and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases.

What if I’m struggling to get pregnant?

Start by checking in with your pregnancy care provider to ensure you’re getting all the right vitamins and nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

However, if you’ve been trying to get pregnant for over a year – or six months if you are over 35 – fertility and reproductive medicine may be the best next step, and you don’t need a referral.

Where am I going to give birth?

Where you will have your routine appointments and where you will deliver your baby probably will be different. However, your whole care team communicates with each other to understand your needs and your birth plan.

At The Birth Place in Sioux Falls, you can expect a personalized experience with low-intervention to high-risk delivery options. Amenities like spacious suites, free entertainment and large bathrooms with whirlpool tubs make your stay more comfortable.

Schedule a tour of the birthing suites, and see exactly where you’ll be going. It can be comforting to be familiar with your surroundings on delivery day.

What if my pregnancy is high risk?

Your first visit to a pregnancy care provider will include a thorough medical history review and exam to determine if your pregnancy is considered high risk, meaning one or more complications could affect your health, your baby’s health or the likelihood for early delivery.

Your provider might recommend seeing a maternal fetal medicine specialist if you:

• Are younger than 17 or older than 35.
• Were underweight or overweight before becoming pregnant.
• Are pregnant with twins or other multiples.
• Have high-risk health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Had issues with previous pregnancies.

Sanford Health is home to the only Fetal Care Center in South Dakota. A team of leading fetal care specialists offer advanced treatment for mothers and babies during and after a high-risk pregnancy.

What additional support services are available?

It’s important to know what other services are available for added support during and after pregnancy.

At Sanford Health, pregnancy navigators, or nurses who are specially trained to educate expectant mothers, are available to guide you. They can help you create a plan, answer questions and prepare you for labor and delivery.

Additionally, there are other supportive and educational resources to explore. Pregnancy and parenting classes can help you feel prepared for labor, delivery and caring for your baby.

What about care for my baby after birth?

Choosing Sanford Health for your pregnancy care means a pediatrician can stop by to check in right after birth. If baby has any additional needs, they can address them quickly while you’re still in the hospital. Your care team also can help you schedule follow-up appointments to make sure you are healing and your baby is healthy and progressing normally.

Additionally, access to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is critical if the need arrives. The NICU team is at the birth of premature babies and babies with health conditions. Knowing that expert infant care is available can bring peace of mind during the birthing process.

What about care for me after birth?

The team at Sanford Health provides access to many postpartum resources that will help you heal after birth.

For extra breastfeeding support, connect with a lactation specialist. They can answer questions, help you find good positions and offer encouragement to help you breastfeed as long as possible.

If you’re experience incontinence issues following birth, you’re not alone. Pelvic medicine specialists can provide treatment for a variety of pelvic floor conditions.

In addition to the physical changes after birth, postpartum brings emotional changes. If long-lasting, intense feelings of sadness or anxiety occur, you may have postpartum depression. It’s important to tell your provider so they can help you get the mental health care you need.

Learn more about pregnancy care at sanfordhealth.org.