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In the case of a multiple pregnancy, monthly ultrasounds are recommended. There are no documented ill effects on patients or their unborn babies with the use of current ultrasound techniques. It is painless, safe, reliable, and non-invasive. The Center for Prenatal Development (CPD), formerly Southwest Perinatology, is led by board-certified perinatologist, Dr. Stephanie Hedstrom. Perinatology, a sub-specialty of obstetrics, is the medical study of “I am very interested in internal medicine,” says Dr. Hedstrom, and she also adds, “Perinatology offers me the opportunity to treat patients with a chronic disease on a short-term basis. I also have always had an interest in women’s health and my specialty allows me to participate in this very important time in a woman’s life.” Dr. Hedstrom received her medical degree from the University of Minnesota and did her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas. In addition to her OB/Gyn residency, Dr. Hedstrom has further training in obstetrics, including a Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship completed at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas. “We specialize in caring for patients who may have complications or who are expecting multiple births,” says Dr. Hedstrom. “I see approximately 25 to 35 patients a day,” she continues. “All pregnant patients get an ultrasound. I also do 5 to 15 amniocenteses a month, another test used in high-risk pregnancies.” “Our machine has a much better image quality than the older machines. The highly advanced technology, including 3-D and 4-D ultrasound, has revolutionized image quality and improved diagnostic possibilities. It provides unparalleled photographic-like detail of the unborn baby,” she explains. “At CPD, it is always used in conjunction with a 2-D ultrasound, which, while not as dramatic as 3-D or 4-D, aids doctors in understanding how the baby is developing.” Dr. Hedstrom is available to scan every patient. The interpretation of the scan is done while the patient is in the office. “If there is a problem with the pregnancy, it is reviewed and explained at that time,” she says. “The genetic consult takes place right away with no need to wait for an appointment.” High-risk pregnancies involve medical conditions such as a family history of birth defects or mental retardation; a history of pregnancy complications such as preterm labor and preeclampsia; chronic diseases such as hypertension, lupus, diabetes, kidney disease, and heart disease. In addition, patients with abnormal screening exams or abnormal ultrasounds; gestational diabetes; hypertension or high blood pressure; older pregnant women with an increased risk of Down’s syndrome; and various other health, genetic, or environmental concerns for the baby or mother are considered high-risk. “The ultrasound procedure makes a significant difference in the lives of parents,” Dr. Hedstrom says. “They are prepared for the possibilities at birth, and meet with specialists who will be taking care of their baby. The delivery can also be planned at a center where there is expertise for any condition that affects the pregnancy.”
“Gestational diabetes occurs in four to five percent of pregnancies, and usually disappears after birth—though women who develop the disease have a 50 percent chance of contracting Type II diabetes in their lifetime.” She continues, “I am deeply involved because I have had gestational diabetes in three of my four pregnancies.” Both Julie and Kim Cox, CNM, are passionate about treating gestational diabetes. “Our goal is to teach,” says Kim. “The disease, with obesity as a serious contributing factor, has reached epidemic proportions. 20.8 million people have now been diagnosed. Who knows how many cases have not been identified? We have a great opportunity here at the center, to counsel pregnant women who can share treatment information with their families. ”
Jodell Bullock, RNC, has worked with Dr. Hedstrom to develop the Multiples Program, another concentration at the center, to help educate expectant parents of twins and triplets about the special needs and risks of a multiple pregnancy. “We are planning to prepare a study about the results of the program over the last year and a half, but we can already see positive results. Expectant mothers are carrying longer in their pregnancies, birth weights have increased, and we see more twins and triplets going home when the mother is discharged,” relates Jodell.
When I asked Dr. Hedstrom about the most rewarding aspect of her work, she says, “At CPD, we strive to give our patients as much information as we can in a caring environment, in plain-spoken terms. My reward is in knowing that the patient leaves my office with an understanding of what is happening in her pregnancy and feels that she has been given the opportunity to ask questions.” With the help of Dr. Hedstrom and the 3-D/4-D ultrasound, we are relieved to learn that everything is normal in Dana’s pregnancy. We can also estimate that Dana and Ricky will have a healthy baby boy around June 3—and he should weigh seven to seven and a half pounds. And guess what? This proud grandmother already has pictures…you don’t even have to ask! The Center for Prenatal Development
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The ultrasound is usually performed to confirm a normal pregnancy, determine the baby’s age, rule out abnormalities, and assess the baby’s heart. In the second and third trimesters, scans are used to determine the baby’s growth, position, and gender, to identify any developmental problems, and to rule out multiple pregnancies. It is now common for women to have at least one routine ultrasound as a part of prenatal care. 
the life and development of fetuses and the management of women with medical complications during their pregnancies. 
According to Julie Krawchuck, CFNP, gestational diabetes is one of the most frequent and serious problems that the staff at CPD sees. She helps treat, counsel, and educate patients with this condition. 
“We help patients modify their diet and increase their physical activity level. The counseling and treatment include regular appointments and calling each patient on a weekly basis. All patients have our office, cell, and home numbers in case they have questions,” says Julie. 
The Center for Prenatal Development also provides services such as biophysical profiles, genetic counseling, amniocentesis, first trimester screening, and maternal fetal medicine consults. According to Kayci Trevino, practice manager, “Patients are usually referred by their primary physician or obstetrician who may request some of these services.” She adds, “Most health plans are accepted.” 
M.T. Hyatt has enjoyed a 25-year career in advertising, communication, and graphic design. She is managing editor of New Mexico WOMAN . Contact M.T. at