Common Pregnancy Procedures No One Tells You About
Pregnancy brings a lot of new information and procedures that you might not have known even existed. At PRC GR we want you to feel confident and prepared for different routine tests and treatments that can help you and your baby during pregnancy. Some procedures are routine but not always explained ahead of time. Understanding each step can help you prepare ahead of time and reduce any anxiety you may have. Below are some of the most common procedures you may encounter.
Gestational Diabetes Test
The gestational diabetes test is typically performed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy to check how the body processes sugar during pregnancy. The test helps identify gestational diabetes—a condition where hormone changes cause elevated blood sugar levels that can affect both the mother and baby’s health. The most common screening method is the glucose challenge test, where a woman drinks a sweet glucose solution and has her blood drawn about an hour later to measure blood sugar levels. If the results are high, a longer test called the glucose tolerance test may be done, which involves fasting, drinking another glucose solution, and having blood drawn several times over a few hours. Detecting and managing gestational diabetes early helps prevent complications such as excessive fetal growth, high birth weight, and delivery difficulties. Even if you do not have diabetes, you can still develop gestational diabetes, so getting tested is recommended for everyone.
Group B Strep Screening and Treatment
Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a common bacteria found in the digestive tract. It usually poses no risk to you but may be serious for a newborn. To reduce that risk, most women are screened between weeks 35 and 37 (CDC). Screening involves a painless swab of the vagina and rectum. If your test is positive, you’ll receive IV antibiotics during labor to lower the chance your baby will get sick. This treatment has been shown to cut newborn GBS infection by over 80 percent (CDC 2020). Knowing your status ahead of time helps your care team act quickly when labor begins.
Breakdown of Epidurals
Epidurals are common during delivery and about 6 in 10 women who deliver vaginally will opt in for one. An epidural is a type of pain relief injected near the spinal cord to block pain in your lower body. It usually involves sitting on the edge of the bed or lying on your side while a small needle and catheter are placed in your back. Once the catheter is in place, medicine flows continuously to help you feel more comfortable. While many women welcome the relief, it’s important to know there can be side effects. You may experience a drop in blood pressure, which could affect how well your baby is oxygenated. Sometimes the epidural doesn’t work evenly, causing numbness on one side. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, less than 1 percent of women have serious complications but mild headaches or back soreness are more common.
Routine Interventions You Might Encounter During Labor
Hospitals have protocols to keep you and your baby safe. You might see some of these interventions during labor or delivery:
- IV Lines for fluids and medications
- Continuous Fetal Monitoring with belts or wireless patches
- Labor Induction using a drug called Pitocin
- Episiotomy to help ease delivery of your baby’s head
- Catheter Placement to help you empty your bladder
Each procedure has benefits and risks. Your nurse or doctor should explain why it’s recommended and ask your permission. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request time to decide.
Empowering You With Information
Knowing what to expect can turn fear into confidence. At PRC GR we believe every woman deserves clear, honest information so she can make choices in line with her values and comfort level. If you have questions about these procedures or want to discuss alternatives, our team is here for you. You deserve care that respects your body, your baby, and your peace of mind.