of life. Circles, loops and cycles of hormones make the life-building process possible. In the
beginning an egg is produced and released. Once it is fertilized, it divides and replicates. The
resulting embryo becomes a fetus and grows all the parts necessary for life. The entire process
precisely occurs over and over. It is a miracle!
Women's Center. First, an obstetrician visits and confirms the pregnancy. Then, a detailed medical
and genetic history is taken. A physical exam is performed and laboratory tests are completed.
tiny heartbeat in the mother's womb. At this point, doctors identify how far along the pregnancy
has progressed. It is crucial that patients return for follow-up visits with the doctor every 4 weeks,
until 32 weeks of pregnancy. After that, the cycle of visits occur more frequently. Expectant
mothers visit every 2 weeks until they have reached 36 weeks of pregnancy. Then, they visit a
doctor once a week, until the child is born.
months and better reflects the timing of the amazing number of changes that occur during
pregnancy.
work every time I perform a delivery. This repeated cycle never gets old and is unique every
time I see it. Some labors are fast and some are slow. Some remain complicated, but others
are thankfully not. Each mother, father and family is unique. Even when a cesarean section is
necessary, the miracle that is childbirth persists.
and Jesus. It has been an honor to be involved with pregnancies and deliveries for over 17 years
in the Brazos Valley. This year was especially memorable for me. I delivered the last baby of 2012
and the first one of 2013. I have truly enjoyed getting to know so many families and participate
with their miracles!
F.A.C.O.G., Diplomat, American Board OB/GYN
Assistant Professor, OB/GYN Department
TAMHSC-College of Medicine
979.776.5602, www.bvwc.com
Assistant Professor, OB/GYN Department, TAMHSC, College of Medicine