Care for your baby starts well before their birth, and your health and wellbeing are equally important throughout pregnancy. Research shows that women who don’t receive sufficient prenatal care have a higher risk of pregnancy complications. On the flip side, getting the care and support you need can invite myriad benefits, from greater peace of mind to stronger physical health and development.
To start making way for these benefits, reach out to The Ob-Gyn Center today or request an appointment on our website. Our team of experienced experts would love to help you through your prenatal journey.
What is preconception counseling?
Preconception counseling is an exam that helps your provider determine whether you have any health-related issues that may impact your ability to carry out your pregnancy or deliver a healthy baby. At this appointment, your provider at The Ob-Gyn Center can customize any lifestyle changes that may be helpful, such as shifting your diet or treating uncontrolled problems, such as high blood sugar. All of this sets the stage for prenatal care, and much of it will continue throughout your pregnancy by way of routine checkups.
Benefits of prenatal care
Prenatal care provides a broad range of benefits to you and your baby, such as:
- Ensured nutritional wellness, which promotes normal development
- Emotional support and reduced anxiety about “what ifs.”
- Guarding against potential complications, such as low birth weight
- Managing any existing health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Making sure you have an effective birth plan
- Monitoring, so that any issues are discovered and addressed early
What to expect during prenatal care visits
At each prenatal checkup, your provider will conduct various tests and screenings to make sure your pregnancy is going smoothly. They’ll also conduct a physical exam and take a urine sample. These visits are a great time to bring up any questions or concerns you might have, so be prepared to do so. There are no silly questions when it comes to the health and wellbeing of you and your baby.
Issues you may want to bring up include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Emotional challenges
- Intimacy issues, such as sexual pain
- Trouble eating sufficient amounts of food and nutrients
- Unusual pain or sensations
- Worries related to the birthing process
Leading up to your baby’s birth, you’ll have more frequent prenatal care visits. For most healthy pregnancies, an appointment every four to six weeks is ideal during the first 32 weeks. From there, this increases to a visit every two to three weeks until your 37th week. Toward the end, you may see your provider weekly. If any risks or complications are at play, your provider may recommend more frequent visits throughout your pregnancy.
Learn more by calling The Ob-Gyn Center or requesting an appointment on our website.
