Expert Pregnancy Care

Choosing a care team for you and your baby should be the easiest part of your pregnancy. Our highly trained doctors and nurses are passionate about pregnancy care and are located throughout the Avera region with access to 16 state-of-the-art birthing locations.

This team includes OB-GYN, family practice/obstetrics and midwifery providers so you can choose the expertise you desire to fit your needs. Our pediatric and family medicine providers can also manage your newborn’s care through the years.

Learn more about our personalized pregnancy care.

The Mitteis Twins

Watch the story of the Mitteis twins.

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Birthing Locations

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High-Risk Pregnancy Care

In addition to your primary obstetrics team, you have the latest technology and expertise available should you need specialty care for you or your baby.

A 42-bed level IIIB NICU in Sioux Falls, S.D., with 24/7 air and ambulance transfer availability
A team of maternal fetal medicine specialists and 24/7 obstetric hospitalists who offer inpatient critical care as necessary
The region’s only fellowship-trained geneticists to help women through high-risk pregnancies when the need arises (diabetes, multiples, hypertension, etc.)
The region’s leading urogynecologist for pain or concerns after birth (prolapsed uterus, sexual dysfunction)
Assistance with breastfeeding

Virtual Care During Pregnancy

These services can be available across the region with assistance through our Avera eCARE® telemedicine services. You can talk with specialists via two-way video in your hometown clinic without having to drive to a regional health center. Services specific to pregnancy care include:

A gestational diabetes program for closer monitoring of patients
Maternal fetal medicine ultrasound and consultations
Genetics testing and consultations
Breastfeeding help
Transfers to a regional health system

Balance Blog Updates

Can I Continue Exercising During Pregnancy?

When it comes to exercise, the best advice is to continue at your fitness level, whatever that may be, and make adjustments for intensity and belly growth as necessary.

September 10, 2019
A Day in the Life of an OB Labor Nurse

June Schaefers, RNC is a labor and delivery nurse at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center. She is honored to be a part of bringing new life into this world.

August 20, 2019
Five Tips for the Breastfeeding Mom

As you prepare for baby don’t forget to take a moment to consider how you’ll be feeding your new baby — breast milk or formula. Here are 5 tips from the experts at Avera.

June 16, 2019
Mom Talk: Balancing Work and Family

Balancing work and family can be challenging. Dr. Catherine Brockmeier offers tips to help you find that balance.

March 20, 2019
Twin Boys Defy Odds With a Stitch and a Prayer

Sarah Heckmann had an emergency cerclage placed in her uterus. The tiny tie is meant to close the uterus and keep the expectant mother from going into pre-term labor.

January 11, 2019
When Motherhood Feels Overwhelming

The changes to new mothers – in their bodies, minds, hormones, diet and relationships – are part of becoming a parent but one that can also cause varying degrees of depression.

January 9, 2019
New Year’s Baby Born to Avera Surgeon

The first New Year’s baby born at Avera McKennan Hospital was to Avera surgeon Tricia Merrigan and husband Jon. Royce Jonathon was born at 5:44 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 1.

January 7, 2019
Mom Talk: How to Keep Newborns Safe During Cold & Flu Season

Follow these simple steps – and encourage your family and friends to, as well – to provide your little one with some much needed protection against the cold & flu season.

December 17, 2018
Nationally Published Article Addresses Safer Deliveries

Communication, planning protocols and training for obstetric teams are among solutions for emergency situations in childbirth.

December 14, 2018