What does an obstetrician do?

Obstetricians are medical doctors who specialize in caring for pregnant women during pregnancy and after childbirth. Typically, patients see obstetricians for routine visits throughout pregnancy. These visits allow the doctor to check on the health of the expectant mother and the baby through the use of ultrasounds and other tests.

Along with monitoring the health of the pregnant mother and child, the obstetrician offers advice on proper nutrition and care for the mother. Obstetricians typically work in private practice or as part of a women's health group. Obstetricians are also gynecologists who care for women's health issues in many cases, which leads to the common title OB/GYN.