What to Expect
What to Expect During Your Appointment at NJPA
Preparing for a medical test or procedure is essential. You should educate yourself about the upcoming test you are scheduled for. This can include the purpose, how it will be done, and what to expect during and after the visit.
New patients: PLEASE arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to accommodate time for filling out of additional paperwork.
Most commonly, the nursing team will call you first to take your vital signs and to review your medical history. You may also receive counseling about your pregnancy i.e. preeclampsia precautions. Next, you will be called by an ultrasound technologist to undergo your scheduled procedure. After which, one of our NJPA MFM specialists may perform more ultrasound; they will review the findings of your ultrasound with you. The report from your procedure is then completed and sent to your Primary OB/GYN team. As needed, you will schedule your next visit just prior to leaving our office.
Results of genetic screening blood work or diagnostic testing can take several days or weeks to come back. You will be contacted by a member of our genetics team as soon as results become available.
Please understand that wait times can vary and are influenced by unexpected complications during prior appointments each day. To minimize inconvenience, we work to communicate with our patients and to work as efficiently as possible. We strive to provide expert care, while respecting your time and needs.
We’d Love to Hear From You, Get In Touch With Us!
At New Jersey Perinatal Associates, we care about both our patient’s wellbeing. Our dedicated team has expert experience in diagnosing and treating a large variety of conditions associated with high risk pregnancies. We use the latest technology to give you, and your baby, the attention you need. We have offices conveniently located throughout NJ in Livingston, Paramus, Warren, Parsippany, Teaneck, and Westfield.
Contact us today to request an appointment at New Jersey Perinatal Associates!
Importance of Proper Prenatal Care
The ultimate goal of any pregnancy is a healthy and successful birth, for both the mother and baby. A healthy birth starts with a healthy pregnancy.
At New Jersey Perinatal Associates, our focus is on providing comprehensive care to expectant mothers who may be facing medical, obstetrical, or surgical risk factors during pregnancy. Our goal is to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby through specialized prenatal diagnosis, monitoring, and management of complications that may arise. Here’s how we support mothers throughout their pregnancy journey:
- Specialized Care: We specialize in managing high-risk pregnancies, which may involve conditions such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, multiple gestations (twins, triplets), maternal age-related risks, fetal growth concerns, genetic disorders, and more.
- Personalized Approach: Each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific pregnancy and medical history. We assess individual risk factors and develop customized care plans to optimize outcomes for both mother and baby.
- Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools: We utilize a wide range of tests and procedures as needed to monitor fetal development and assess maternal health. This includes ultrasound scans, genetic screening, fetal echocardiography, and other advanced diagnostic tools to detect and manage potential complications.
- Education and Support: We believe in empowering mothers with information about their pregnancy, health, and fetal development. This includes educating patients about their unique pregnancy situation, potential risks, and symptoms to watch for. This enables informed decision-making and proactive management of health during pregnancy.
- Collaborative Care: Our team includes perinatologists (maternal-fetal medicine specialists), obstetricians, genetic counselors, and other specialists who collaborate closely to provide comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of maternal and fetal health are addressed effectively.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize patient comfort, understanding, and involvement in their care journey. We encourage open communication, address concerns promptly, and support mothers through every stage of pregnancy.
By focusing on proactive management, early intervention when needed, and thorough monitoring, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for mothers and babies. Our commitment is to provide compassionate care that prioritizes safety, health, and informed decision-making throughout the pregnancy and beyond.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment at NJPA
Please note that these guidelines should not cause extreme discomfort or pain; you should drink only until your bladder is at a full yet comfortable level.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a procedure that involves the removal of amniotic fluid from the uterus for testing or treatment. This test may be performed for several reasons, including genetic testing, diagnosis of fetal infection, treatment for excess amniotic fluid, or paternity testing. Amniocentesis carries a very low risk of pregnancy loss. . Preparation for amniocentesis generally involves drinking 1 to 2 (8oz) glasses of fluid (non-carbonated), which you should finish ~30 minutes before the ultrasound is performed. During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted through the abdominal wall so that a small amount of amniotic fluid can be withdrawn from the uterus.
CVS
CVS, or chorionic villus sampling, involves taking a tissue sample from the placenta. This tissue is then tested for chromosomal abnormalities or other genetic problems. CVS is usually done between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy and can be performed either transcervically (a thin, hollow tube is inserted through the vagina and cervix to reach the placenta) or transabdominally (a thin needle is inserted through the abdominal wall to reach the uterus). Preparation for CVS involves drinking 1 to 2 (8oz) glasses of non-carbonated fluid which should finish ~30 minutes before your appointment.
1st Trimester Ultrasound (~11-13 weeks 6 days)
1st trimester screening most commonly, involves both non-invasive maternal blood work ie. NIPT as well as an ultrasound. The dating of your pregnancy is confirmed and basic anatomy of the fetus, along with nuchal translucency, is seen. Performing these tests early gives expectant mothers more time to make decisions about additional testing and management of a pregnancy. Before your appointment, you should drink 1-2 (~8oz) glasses of non-carbonated fluid. Finish drinking ~30 minutes before your ultrasound. A full bladder is essential, so please do not empty your bladder before your appointment.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
A small probe is inserted into the vagina to get a clear image of the pregnancy and surrounding tissues. it is used to check the baby’s heartbeat and the placenta. During the early stages of pregnancy, transvaginal ultrasound is more accurate than abdominal ultrasound. This procedure may also be performed to assess the cervix, ovaries, and even the antomy of your baby. Transvaginal ultrasound is done with an empty bladder.
Level 2 Ultrasound (2nd Trimester Targeted Ultrasound)
A ‘level 2’ ultrasound provides a detailed evaluation of fetal anatomy and development. The baby’s entire body is evaluated, along with extensive evaluation of the heart and other organs. This ultrasound also checks the umbilical cord, amniotic fluid levels, placenta location, and fetal heart rate. Preparation for a level 2 ultrasound involves drinking 1-2 (~8oz) glasses of fluid (non-carbonated). You should finish drinking ~30 minutes prior to your ultrasound. Please do not empty your bladder prior to your appointment.
After 20-22 weeks of pregnancy
For appointments after the anatomy scan, we will continue to monitor your pregnancy for the growth and development of your baby. You will be able to ask any questions you have, and our perinatologists will inform you if any additional tests are needed or if there are certain precautions you should take to reduce the risk of complications as you get closer to your due date. No preparation is required for these appointments.
Nonstress Test or Biophysical Profile
Another common prenatal test is a biophysical profile, which is used to check on a baby’s well-being in the womb. This provides a clear picture of the baby’s heart rate, breathing, movements, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid level. This test is recommended for women with higher-risk pregnancies and is usually performed after week 32 of pregnancy. A nonstress test simply involves the placement of a belt containing sensors that measure fetal heart rate over your abdomen. The score of the test will determine if any further testing is needed. No preparation is required for fetal testing at NJPA.
We are proud to provide a wide range of perinatal care services to our patients so that all expectant mothers and families in NJ can have convenient access to the care they need to support a healthy pregnancy.
Prenatal Diagnosis
- Ultrasound
- Non-Invasive Testing
- Genetic Counseling Services
- Genetic Screening
Medical Complications of Pregnancy
- Preconception Counseling
- Risk Assessment and Planning
- Assessment During Pregnancy
Pregnancy-Related Complications
- Preterm Birth Prevention
- Multiple Gestations
- Placenta Previa Abruption and Vasa Previa
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction
- Hypertension
High-Risk Pregnancy Care and Ultrasound in NJ at NJPA
At NJPA, our team of high-risk pregnancy specialists works side by side with our referring doctors to ensure that each patient’s care is as comprehensive and consistent as possible. Whether you are scheduled for amniocentesis or a routine ultrasound, we will make sure you are fully informed about what to expect and how to prepare.