BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS
High-Risk Pregnancies
It is because we recognize not all pregnancies are uncomplicated
that our Perinatology Center is affiliated with Beth Israel
Deaconess Medical Center and Tufts New England Medical Center for
the care of our high-risk mothers. You now have the added
convenience of seeing a perinatologist on the campus of Beverly
Hospital - no need to travel to Boston. Additionally, all of our
obstetrical providers offer expecting moms genetic counseling and
24-hour transfer to Boston, if necessary.
Having A Baby After Age 35
For many reasons, personal and professional, more and more women
are choosing to postpone childbirth until they are 30, 35 or even
40 years old. However, it can be harder to conceive a baby at a
later age, and women over 35 may be more likely to have a
complication during pregnancy.
Diabetes
Years ago many women with diabetes would choose not to get
pregnant, fearing complications. Today, your doctor will help you
monitor your blood sugars carefully so you can deliver a normal,
healthy baby. You should see your physician before you get pregnant
to make sure your diabetes is well under control. And see our
nutrition section for helpful diet hints during
pregnancy.
Past Miscarriages
If you have had two or more miscarriages, your condition may
warrant further investigation by the perinatologist. Your physician
can review the need for this with you.
Expecting More Than One Baby
Today the success of fertility treatments to assist pregnancy,
it is more common for women to have more than one baby. Your doctor
or midwife may ask you to have ultrasound monitoring or other
interventions to help you deliver as close to full term as
possible. If you do deliver early, we offer your babies the special
care they need in our Level II Special Care Nursery
High Blood Pressure
Sometimes for unknown reasons, a woman will develop high blood
pressure during pregnancy. If you are pregnant your doctor or
midwife will monitor your blood pressure very closely. If high
blood pressure develops, you should notice a sudden swelling in
your hands or face, a significant weight gain or blurry vision. You
need to call your provider right away.