Importance of Prenatal Care
Finding out you are pregnant is often very exciting, and it may come with a ton of questions as to what happens next, how you should take care of your body and your baby, how to prepare for their arrival, and all the combinations of both nervousness and excitement! Taking care of your baby begins the moment you find out you are pregnant, and seeking professional prenatal care early is key to a healthy pregnancy and successful delivery.
What Do I Do?
Very good question! Most mothers have asked the same, so here is a basic checklist:
- If you suspect you are pregnant, make an appointment with your OBGYN as soon as possible. If you don’t have a regular OBGYN, call your insurance and see which experts in your area accept your insurance. If you don’t have insurance, before you look into applying, contact family planning clinics and community health centers close to you–those do provide basic prenatal care either free of charge or at a low cost.
- Your first prenatal appointment usually happens when you are 8 weeks pregnant, when a review of your medical history will take place and possibly a urine and blood test as well.
- For uncomplicated pregnancies, expect to see your prenatal healthcare provider once a month up until the 28th week, twice a month for weeks 28-36, and weekly from week 36 until delivery.
How Does this Help my Baby?
During your prenatal visits your doctor or nurse will check both your health and the health of your baby: your blood pressure and weight need to be monitored, measuring your abdomen to determine your baby’s growth is important, and your baby’s heart rate will also be checked at every visit.
Studies have shown that babies of mothers who receive no form of prenatal care whatsoever are three times more likely to have birth complications or low birth weight. It is understandable that if your insurance doesn’t cover the cost of all suggested prenatal exams and tests, you may not be able to afford them all. Some tests are screening tests, meaning that they detect risks of possible health problems; based on their results, your doctor may suggest diagnostic tests to get more accurate results.
What are some of the tests?
First and foremost your doctor needs to know your blood type and Rh factor, as well as any STIs, infections, or HIV. Genetic testing may be suggested to diagnose birth defects or possible genetic conditions, tests for chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes test, glucose tolerance test, as well as regular urine tests and ultrasounds.