Getting Pregnant and Having a Baby- Know What Prenatal Care Means

You feel your body is changing. You feel dizzy in the morning. You get sick in the afternoon. You crave for specific food. You missed your period. If you feel all these, then, congratulations! You could be pregnant.

Nothing is comparable to the joy that you will feel when you are expecting. When you experience the common symptoms of being pregnant you should contact your doctor immediately. Prenatal care is very important. There should be proper care and nutrition. Doctors usually check if there are risks or complications during your first trimester. Prenatal care will treat problems early or prevent any harm to you and your baby’s health. What happens during your first prenatal visit? Your doctor will dig about you and your family’s health history, your medical history, operations and will be asked your previous pregnancies. A physical exam will be conducted. Pap smear test will be done and pelvic exam. Laboratory test, your sample blood and urine will be taken. Doctors will calculate your due date. Make sure you are ready with your questions. You should discuss issues that you know might affect you and your baby. Ask what are the dos and don’ts.

During your pregnancy, you will have the routine tests. Most doctors check for anemia, blood type or gestational diabetes, still depending on your family health history. Regular check-up with your OB Gyne doctor will include checking baby’s growth and heart rate. For your, doctor will check your weight and blood pressure.

If pregnancy is planned, you should be taking care of yourself. You must know what preconception health means. You should know the factors or risks that could affect you and your unborn baby when you get pregnant. Talking to your doctor is important so that you can prepare your body. Doctors will give you the right medication and preparation in getting pregnant. A folic acid intake may be advised as this lowers the risk of birth defects. It is important to stay away from alcohol and cigarettes. Important vaccines must be updated.

Many pregnancies are unplanned. It is your duty to yourself to stay healthy as possible. Know the factors that will help your future baby healthy and worry-free pregnancy.