Pregnancy Specialist
Darrell Robins, MD
Gynecologist & Obstetrician located in Plano, TX
Pregnancy is an exciting time, and if you’re expecting it’s even more important than normal to take care of yourself and work with a trusted obstetrician. With 30 years of experience, Darrell Robins, MD, in Plano, Texas, offers comprehensive pregnancy care, from prenatal checkups all the way through delivery at Texas Health Resources (THR) Plano hospital. Call or schedule an appointment online today for expert pregnancy care.
Pregnancy Q & A
What is prenatal care?
Prenatal care includes the checkups and health screenings you have with Dr. Robins throughout your pregnancy. You’ll have appointments with Dr. Robins once a month until your 28th week of pregnancy, then every other week until your 36th week, and after that weekly, until your baby is born.
Dr. Robins performs all deliveries at THR Plano. The hospital is an excellent facility for new mothers and infants, boasting a level 3 nursery. Being level 3 means the nursery is equipped to provide care to premature babies and those born with critical illnesses.
What happens during prenatal checkups?
Prenatal appointments help you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy, which helps your baby stay healthy and develop as expected.
Dr. Robins checks your weight and blood pressure at every appointment and measures your bump once you start to show. He also listens to your baby’s heartbeat.
At various points throughout your pregnancy, you’ll have other tests, like ultrasounds around your 20th and 34th week, which are conveniently available in Dr. Robins’ office. You’ll also have a glucose test around your 20th week to test for gestational diabetes.
If you’re having a high-risk pregnancy, you may need more frequent prenatal appointments. Dr. Robins will let you know how often to schedule your checkups.
What is a high-risk pregnancy?
A high-risk pregnancy is when you or your baby has an increased risk of health problems. For example, women over the age of 35 are considered high risk, as are those with diabetes, high blood pressure or carrying more than one baby.
If you’re at a higher risk, Dr. Robins offers specialized care to help you and your baby stay safe and healthy throughout pregnancy and delivery.
When should I go to the hospital to deliver my baby?
While every woman has a unique experience with labor and delivery, some common signs that your labor is starting include the loss of your mucus plug and lightening, which is when your baby shifts lower in your abdomen, reducing pressure.
You’ll also have contractions. They typically begin slowly and might just feel like a tightening in your abdomen or lower back. Your contractions will get intense, occurring at regular intervals with increasing frequency. When you start to have intense contractions every five minutes, it’s time to call Dr. Robins and head to the hospital.
If you’re pregnant and looking for an expert obstetrician, call Dr. Robins or book an appointment online today.