Prenatal Care

Prenatal care refers to the care a woman receives while she is pregnant. Prenatal care is essential to a health pregnancy and birth. Prenatal care can be provided by a number of different people, including obstetricians, family practitioners, or certified nurse-midwives. Although many people believe prenatal care should begin once a woman is actually pregnant, it is important to understand health conditions and behaviors that can affect a pregnancy before actually becoming pregnant. Ridding the body of toxins, and maintaining a healthy diet are a couple of steps that can ensure a smooth transition into good prenatal care (Office on Women’s Health, 2012).

There are many factors that play a role in good prenatal care. Early detection of pregnancy is important in receiving proper health care. Once a woman is aware of her pregnancy, it is important to make an appointment with her health care provider. Medical history is the first topic that will be discussed. It is important for health care providers to understand a woman’s medical history in order to determine if problems will arise throughout the pregnancy. Another essential part of prenatal care is determining the due date. Establishing a due date allows the health care provider to monitor the baby’s growth and make sure the mother is on track with her pregnancy. Assessing the mother’s overall health by completing a physical exam and lab tests will also help to make sure the mother can have a healthy pregnancy.

Aside from the basic steps that must be completed immediately, there are other factors that play a role in prenatal care throughout the entire pregnancy. It is important that mothers avoid drugs and alcohol because of the negative effects they may have on their child. It is also important for pregnant women to avoid medication without first discussing them with a health care provider. Visiting a health care provider regularly, taking prenatal vitamins, eating healthy foods, and getting enough sleep are all positive steps towards a healthy pregnancy (Do’s and Don’ts, 2009). It is also widely recommended to take folic acid supplements while pregnant to prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. “Birth defects occur within the first 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. So it's important to have folic acid in your system during those early stages when your baby's brain and spinal cord are developing” (Folic Acid Benefits in Pregnancy, n.d.).