Should I seek "high-risk" OB & tertiary hospital?

[doctor fang]

Hello,

My question is whether or not ladies with pre-e should seek out "high-risk" OB-GYNs and tertiary hositals.

My first choice is a local "secondary" hospital and my current (non-high-risk) OB-GYN practice. However, a somewhat overcrowded tertiary hospital with high-risk OB-GYNs is available about 25 miles farther away. My current OB-GYNs also practice at that tertiary hospital, and have regular contact with the high-risk OBs there.

Particulars of my case are:

- I am currently 35 weeks 5 days along. I was diagnosed at 33 weeks, and was immediately put on bedrest.

- I have been hospitalized twice (once at the tertiary hospital, once at the secondary hospital) for four days each time, until my BP stabilized.

- My BPs currently are in the 140-150 / 90-100 range. I have an occasional spike up to 150-110. Last 24-hour urine collection had 345 mg protein.

- The baby is reactive in NSTs and was estimated to be 5 pounds (50th percentile) at a 34-week BPP.


The tertiary hospital seemed like a zoo to me (women laboring in the hallways because no rooms were available; "private" rooms being shared by two people, etc.), which is why I prefer my nearby secondary hospital. However, the secondary hospital has no NICU.

I'm very happy with my current OBs so far. Should I be concerned about planning a pre-e birth at a secondary hospital with no high-risk OBs present?

Thnk you very much in advance,
Sue

[expert on call]

My question is whether or not ladies with pre-e should seek out "high-risk" OB-GYNs and tertiary hositals.

In general--Yes--to the above question. In your situation--if you are happy with your care you should stay with it but be sure your OB is getting advice from someone who is experienced in these kind of high risk pregnancies.

Given that you have likely delivered by now--this advice is meant to be general and not specific to your case. One should always bring these questions to your OB and make sure you feel comfortable with the care you are receiving. It never hurts to get a second opinion.

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