Obstetric History

Question 1

When taking a history from a pregnant woman what are some important questions to ask initially?

Answer 1

• Gestational age
• Gravidity
• Parity

Question 2

What are key obstetric symptoms to inquire about during a history?

Answer 2

Nausea and vomiting

Vaginal bleeding

Vaginal discharge

Abdominal pain

Reduced fetal movements

Itchy skin

Question 3

When asking a woman for details of her current pregnancy, what do you want to ask her?

Answer 3

• Gestational age
• Results of scans (position of placenta etc.)
• Screening for abnormalities
• Taking folic acid?
• Is mum up to date with immunisations
• Any history of mental health problems

Question 4

What should be asked about previous pregancies?

Answer 4

1) Gravidity and parity
2) What was the gestational age at time of deliveries?
3) What was the type of delivery? Vaginal or C-section?
4) What was the weight and sex of the baby?
5) Any miscarriages or abortions?
6) Any complications throughout pregnancy, during delivery or post natally?

Question 5

What else must be asked during an obstetric history?

Answer 5

Date of last cervical screening and the outcome