A guide to pregnancy care services and how they support you and your baby
When you first learn you’re expecting, one of the most important steps you can take is to find the right pregnancy care services. From the first prenatal visit through delivery and postpartum recovery, these services are designed to protect your health, support your baby’s development, and provide the guidance you need for a safe and positive pregnancy journey.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology in Coral Springs, FL, our doctors provide compassionate and comprehensive pregnancy care for women at every stage of life. To schedule your first prenatal appointment, call 954-340-1050 or book online here.
Why Pregnancy Care Services Matter
Pregnancy is a time of rapid change for both your body and your baby. Having the right care ensures that any complications are caught early and that you receive ongoing support tailored to your needs. Key reasons pregnancy care services are so important include:
- Monitoring health and development: Regular visits allow your provider to track your baby’s growth and your overall health.
- Early detection of risks: Conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia can be managed more effectively when identified early.
- Personalized guidance: Nutrition, exercise, and mental health support are all part of quality pregnancy care.
- Preparation for delivery: Your doctor can help you plan for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery.
The Stages of Pregnancy Care Services
Pregnancy care services typically follow three main stages: prenatal care, labor and delivery support, and postpartum care.
Prenatal Care
This is the foundation of pregnancy care. It begins as soon as you know you’re pregnant and continues throughout your pregnancy. Prenatal services may include:
- Initial evaluation: Health history, lab tests, and an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy and establish a due date.
- Regular checkups: Every 4 weeks until 28 weeks, every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, and weekly until delivery.
- Screenings: Blood pressure checks, glucose screening, and tests for anemia or infections.
- Ultrasounds: To monitor your baby’s growth and development.
- Counseling: Guidance on diet, activity, and managing common pregnancy symptoms.
Labor and Delivery Support
When it’s time to give birth, pregnancy care services extend to labor and delivery. These services ensure safety and comfort for both mother and baby. They may include:
- Birth planning: Discussing preferences for pain management, labor positions, and delivery methods.
- Monitoring during labor: Keeping track of your baby’s heart rate and your progress in labor.
- Delivery support: Whether vaginal or cesarean, your provider will help ensure a safe delivery.
- Immediate newborn care: Checking your baby’s health right after birth.
Postpartum Care
Care doesn’t stop once the baby arrives. Postpartum services are an essential part of supporting mothers through recovery and adjustment. They may include:
- Follow-up visits: Typically at 2–6 weeks postpartum to check physical recovery and mental well-being.
- Breastfeeding support: Guidance on nursing challenges and infant nutrition.
- Emotional health: Screening for postpartum depression or anxiety.
- Family planning: Discussing birth control and spacing between pregnancies.
Specialized Pregnancy Care Services
Some women need extra support during pregnancy due to existing conditions or higher risks. Specialized services may include:
- High-risk pregnancy management: Extra monitoring for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or multiple pregnancies.
- Genetic counseling and testing: For women with family histories of genetic conditions.
- Maternal-fetal medicine referrals: For pregnancies requiring advanced monitoring.
- Mental health support: Access to counseling and resources for anxiety, depression, or stress during pregnancy.
Common Questions About Pregnancy Care Services
When should I start pregnancy care?
As soon as you know you’re pregnant. Early care gives you and your baby the healthiest start possible.
Do I need pregnancy care if I feel healthy?
Yes. Many conditions during pregnancy show no symptoms at first. Regular visits allow your provider to detect and manage them early.
What’s included in a typical prenatal visit?
Your provider may check your blood pressure, weight, and urine, listen to your baby’s heartbeat, measure your belly, and answer any questions.
Do pregnancy care services include nutrition advice?
Yes. Providers often guide you on foods to prioritize, foods to avoid, and supplements like folic acid or iron.
How Pregnancy Care Changes by Trimester
Pregnancy care services evolve as your pregnancy progresses:
- First trimester (weeks 1–12): Focus on confirming pregnancy, establishing a baseline for health, and providing guidance on early symptoms.
- Second trimester (weeks 13–27): More detailed ultrasounds, glucose testing, and conversations about birth planning.
- Third trimester (weeks 28–40): More frequent visits to monitor your baby’s position, discuss delivery options, and prepare for postpartum needs.
Preparing for Your Appointments
To make the most of your pregnancy care services, consider:
- Writing down questions ahead of time so nothing gets overlooked.
- Tracking symptoms like nausea, swelling, or changes in movement.
- Bringing your partner or support person to appointments if possible.
- Being open and honest with your provider—every concern is important.
Taking the Next Step
Pregnancy is a journey filled with change, anticipation, and important decisions. Having access to comprehensive pregnancy care services helps you feel supported and confident every step of the way. From your first prenatal appointment to postpartum recovery, these services are designed to keep you and your baby healthy.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, our team is here to provide compassionate care tailored to your needs. Call us today at 954-340-1050 or book online here to start your pregnancy care journey.
Photo by Daniel Duarte