What is Obstetrics?

Singapore obstetrics focuses on the well-being of a woman during pregnancy, labour and delivery, and postpartum. The health of the foetus is also monitored closely to ensure optimal development. Obstetrics also covers preconception services, which include evaluating a woman’s fertility and treating certain gynaecological conditions that may affect her chances of pregnancy.

On top of routine screenings as the pregnancy progresses, obstetricians in Singapore also manage any complications that may arise during pregnancy or childbirth, such as gestational diabetes, preterm labour, or preeclampsia. Obstetricians are also skilled in both natural birth techniques as well as Caesarean section to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Overall, obstetricians play a crucial role in helping women have healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries.

We know from scientific studies that babies born at the extremes of birthweight either under 2.5kg or over 4.5kg are at an increased risk of developing chronic diseases later in life such as diabetes and heart disease. Studies have also found that food chemicals can act to switch certain genes on and off in the developing fetus during pregnancy through a process called ‘epigenetics’. A mother’s nutrition is therefore important even before she is pregnant as it can affect the development and subsequent health of her baby.

Being overweight or underweight can also affect fertility. Hence, optimizing ones’ health and observing a healthy diet and lifestyle should begin even before conception and pregnancy as it can affect a couple's chance of getting pregnant in the first place.

If you have plans to start trying to conceive, consider making an appointment with us for a Prepregnancy or Preconception health screen and consultation, where we can address your concerns, and discuss diet and lifestyle issues for a healthy pregnancy.

What Does an Obstetrician Do?

An obstetrician in Singapore is a specialist doctor who helps with the safe and compassionate management of pregnancies and deliveries. Obstetric clinics should be well-equipped and licensed to ensure that services rendered are of high quality. It is recommended to visit an obstetrician if you are planning to conceive, as well as throughout the length of your pregnancy to ensure a safe and reassuring experience.

Pre-pregnancy Health Screen

Going for a pre-pregnancy health screening package is ideal to ensure that any health issues are addressed before pregnancy. This usually comprises a thorough examination and investigations.

We will then review the investigation results and provide the necessary advice with regard to fertility and pregnancy. For example, if a patient is found to lack immunity against rubella, vaccination is advisable as infection during pregnancy can cause congenital defects in the baby.

Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy Screening

This test is also known as the OSCAR (One-Stop Clinic for Assessment of Risks of Fetal Anomalies). This includes a scan of the nuchal translucency or fluid-filled space behind the fetal neck. A nasal bone assessment is also usually done as babies with Down’s Syndrome may have an absence of the nasal bone. The scans may be combined with a blood test from the mother for hormone and biochemical markers for a more accurate risk assessment.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

Amniocentesis

Pregnancy Scanning and Pregnancy Care Singapore

Dating and Viability Pregnancy Scan

At around 6 weeks of pregnancy, an early dating ultrasound scan will help confirm the location and gestational age of the embryo and check whether it is a single or twin pregnancy.

Fetal Anomaly Screening Scan

At around 20 weeks of pregnancy, a fetal anomaly scan is usually performed to assess the baby’s growth, anatomy, placental position and cervical status. This scan can usually detect up to 90% of the major abnormalities.

Pregnancy Growth Scan

From 24 weeks of pregnancy, patients are usually seen on a monthly basis up to 32 weeks, fortnightly up to 36 weeks, and finally weekly until delivery. Pregnancy growth scans are usually performed after 24 weeks of pregnancy to ensure that your baby is growing well. They also evaluate the placental location and amniotic fluid volume. The use of colour Doppler ultrasound helps to assess the blood flow in the umbilical cord and other blood vessels in the baby. The results from such scans can help determine if the blood is circulating properly and if the baby is under stress.

3D and 4D scans

A 3D scan provides a life-like image of your baby while a 4D scan is a real-time moving image of the baby. These scans may take around 30 minutes or longer depending on your baby’s position and movement. They may help to provide reassurance that the baby is growing well, but are not meant to replace the screening scans which are advised in the second trimester.

Fetal Cardiotocography (CTG)

This is a recording of the fetal heart rate. It is performed to determine the baby’s well-being. It also helps to assess for the presence of uterine contractions.

Delivery and Postnatal Care

The 3 modes of delivery are normal vaginal delivery, assisted or instrumental delivery, and Caesarean. Most women are encouraged to try for a normal vaginal delivery. Occasionally, some require help with forceps or a vacuum cup. Others may require a Caesarean section.

Each mode of delivery has its benefits and risks. Every woman is unique with different pain thresholds and perceptions of how their delivery should be conducted. Do share with us your birth plan so that we can work with you towards the safe delivery of your child.