Pregnancy Specialist

Why do I need prenatal care?

Prenatal care is a critical step in preserving the health of mother and baby. Babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care have a higher risk of a low birth weight, and mothers who do not get prenatal care are more likely to die during pregnancy compared to women who do.

With regular prenatal visits and screenings, the providers can spot problems early. And, if you’re at a high risk of complications, prenatal care can help ease your fears and reduce those risks.

How often should I see a doctor for prenatal care?

At Comprehensive Women’s Health, the providers provide you with a recommended schedule for prenatal visits. In most cases, you’ll visit the office once a month for the weeks four through 28, twice per month for weeks 28-36, and weekly for the last few weeks up until birth.

If you’re a high-risk pregnancy or older than 35, you may need more frequent visits.

What happens at prenatal visits?

At your first prenatal visit, you undergo a thorough physical exam and pelvic exam. The providers at Comprehensive Women’s Health review your health history and your family’s health history. Blood tests, urine tests, and vital sign reviews – including blood pressure and weight – are conducted.

At future visits, you may undergo additional screenings, experience ultrasound exams to check the development of your baby, have your blood pressure and weight checked, and get checks on your baby’s heart rate.

Periodic prenatal tests provide you with information about your health and the health of your baby. You become aware of potential problems that could affect the baby. These prenatal tests include Group B strep, HIV, and gestational diabetes.

Genetic tests are also offered Comprehensive Women’s Health. These tests are optional, but test more thoroughly for specific complications, such as birth defects or genetic diseases.

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy is one in which the mother or the baby (or both) could experience complications during pregnancy or delivery. Factors that make a pregnancy high-risk include:

• Advanced maternal age (over 35)
• Pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or lupus
• Medical conditions that develop during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia
• Fetal problems detected on ultrasound
• Pregnancy with multiples

The providers at Comprehensive Women’s Health have experience managing high-risk pregnancies.

If you’re pregnant, call Comprehensive Women’s Health to set up prenatal care, or book your first appointment online.