Prenatal care refers to the health care that a woman receives over the course of her pregnancy. Whether you’re trying to conceive or you recently became pregnant, you likely have several questions about what care you require during pregnancy. Below are a few common questions and answers about prenatal care to help get you started.

Questions About Prenatal Care Answered

What is the purpose of prenatal care?

The primary goal of prenatal care is to protect the mother and baby over the course of the pregnancy. Providers do this by monitoring the baby's development and by conducting routine scans and any necessary tests as the pregnancy progresses. Expectant mothers can take an active role in their prenatal care by following their provider’s instructions, which might include eating well, exercising, and taking certain vitamins. 

How often should I schedule my prenatal appointments?

Every woman’s prenatal care needs are different. For example, those who are having a high-risk pregnancy will need to see their provider more often than those who aren't. Regardless of your particular circumstances, though, you can expect to schedule checkups more frequently as your pregnancy progresses.

For example, you may only need to see your provider once a month during the first 32 weeks of pregnancy. From weeks 32 to 37, you might need a checkup every two weeks. Upon reaching week 37, your provider will likely want to see you once a week until delivery. 

What happens during prenatal appointments?

Each prenatal appointment might be slightly different. Barring any complications, though, you can expect your provider to check your blood pressure, note your weight, measure your belly, and check the baby’s heart rate at every visit. At various points during the pregnancy, it may also be necessary to undergo bloodwork, screenings, and routine tests. 

When should I start prenatal care?

Women are encouraged to start prenatal care as soon as they learn they’re pregnant. However, those who have the potential to have a high-risk pregnancy—if they’re over 35, for example, or they have certain health conditions—should actually talk to their doctor before trying to conceive. All women who are able to get pregnant should be taking folic acid because a deficiency can cause birth defects in the earliest stages of pregnancy. 

For quality prenatal care from compassionate and experienced providers, turn to Home Birth with Love. Based in Suffern, NY, this agency is led by a certified nurse-midwife who has more than 17 years of experience in the field. Their knowledgeable team can assist with everything from family planning to postpartum care. To learn more about their prenatal services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment with a certified midwife, call (845) 641-5058.