SERVICES AND CONDITIONS
ANTENATAL OBSTETRIC CARE
As an OB-GYN, Dr Hartell conducts antenatal check-ups throughout your pregnancy to ensure that both you and your baby are healthy. These check-ups allow you and Dr Hartell to monitor the growth and development of your baby and can also help the OB-GYN identify any high-risk pregnancy factors.
Dr Hartell offers antenatal care to pregnant women not only for the journey of pregnancy but also for the birth of their baby. In your first trimester, Dr Hartell will confirm your pregnancy and discuss your gynaecological history during your antenatal consultation. The aim of these consultations is to ensure the health of both mother and baby during early pregnancy through to birth and beyond. At any point in time, both baby’s and mother’s health could be compromised. Screening during these antenatal visits detects issues linked to a high-risk pregnancy. Good antenatal care consists of a comprehensive plan in place with problem-oriented solutions.
WHAT DOES ANTENATAL TESTING INVOLVE?
To ensure a healthy pregnancy, Dr Hartell will do comprehensive tests and exams, including ultrasound scans and screening for genetic abnormalities and health risks. Dr Hartell will also prioritise any physical symptoms plaguing you during your pregnancy, such as morning sickness, fatigue, weight gain and anxiety. As your obstetrician, she will offer advice on healthy eating and lifestyle changes now that you are expecting a baby and empowering you with information regarding your birthing decisions. Whether you prefer a natural vaginal delivery or a caesarean section, Dr Hartell will be able to advise you on what may be best for your baby as well as what to expect from each choice. Following the birth of your baby, Dr Hartell will also advise you on postnatal support classes and possible treatment for postpartum depression (baby blues).
WHAT ARE BABY BLUES AND POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION?
Mothers experiencing baby blues develop mood swings and often their sleeping patterns are inconsistent. Postpartum depression is much more severe and can turn into psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is a medical condition that has severe repercussions when neglected.
SIGNS OF POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS:
- Paranoia
- Seeing things that aren’t there
- Strange behaviour that never occurred before
- Thoughts of harm to your baby
- Suicide
- Not eating
- Lack of sleep