Obstetrics & Prenatal Care
Dr. Reuss does his utmost to attend to his patients' deliveries, recognizing that a birth day is one of the most significant days in one's life. When unavailable, you'll be supported by a phenomenal call group.
Patient Resources
Your Pregnancy, Trimester by Trimester
First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)
Normally at the first visit, an ultrasound is performed in the office to confirm the due date and reassure the mother. If all appears well, the basics of the pregnancy are outlined and the second visit is scheduled for several weeks later. At that second prenatal visit, necessary prenatal lab work is obtained and a complete physical exam performed. We will also discuss various genetic testing options that you may or may not choose to undergo.
Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)
By the beginning of the second trimester, most mothers are feeling much better and have more energy. The likelihood for miscarriage has dramatically decreased — some call this the "golden trimester." A formal anatomy ultrasound is usually performed between 18 and 20 weeks to make sure the fetus is growing appropriately and its anatomy is normal. Fetal movement is usually appreciated by 18 to 20 weeks. Towards the end of the second trimester, a final blood work panel is performed to evaluate for gestational diabetes and anemia.
Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)
During the third trimester, visits are scheduled every 2 weeks until 36 weeks and weekly thereafter. If the mother is Rh negative, a RhoGAM injection is administered at 28 weeks. Assessment of fetal movement usually starts at around 30 weeks. By 37 weeks, a group B strep vaginal culture is performed. It is generally recommended that patients refrain from traveling out of town after 35 weeks. Towards the end of the pregnancy, specific time is set aside to go over decisions regarding pain management, labor, birth plans, and choosing a pediatrician. Prenatal classes will be discussed as well.