Patient education
Prenatal care
is medical care for women both before and during pregnancy. Prenatal care is used to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and developing baby. Prenatal care can help detect and treat problems promptly, prevent complications, and refer women to appropriate specialists when necessary. In the United States, prenatal care has resulted in a reduced number of maternal deaths, miscarriages, and birth defects.
It is recommended that all women who are considering becoming pregnant visit their doctor for a pre-pregnancy healthcare check-up. Otherwise, women should contact their doctor as soon as they suspect they are pregnant. Receiving prenatal care is especially important for women with high-risk pregnancies.
At your first visit, your doctor will assess your overall health and review your medical history. Bring a list of your current medications for your doctor to review. In some instances, certain medications may be harmful to a developing baby and are substituted with a safer alternative. Your blood pressure, height, and weight will be measured. Your doctor may conduct a pelvic examination, and blood and urine tests may be conducted as well. Your doctor will recommend prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, which can help significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
Your doctor will determine an appointment schedule to closely monitor your pregnancy. Generally, monthly appointments are used for the first six months of pregnancy, every two weeks during the seventh and eighth months, and weekly in the ninth month. Women with high-risk pregnancies will have more frequent appointments.
Your blood pressure, blood, and urine will be tested periodically throughout your pregnancy. Routine ultrasound testing is most commonly performed at about the 20th week and the 34th week of pregnancy. Some doctors may use ultrasound more frequently. Ultrasound is also used if a problem is suspected.
Prenatal testing helps ensure that problems in a pregnancy receive prompt attention. It enables you to communicate with your doctor and discuss any concerns. You should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all appointments.
This information is provided for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak with Dr. Moola about your individual care. If this is a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.