Why Is Prenatal Care Important? Early and Regular Care Can Mean a Healthier Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby.
So you think you are pregnant. For many, this is a time of incredible excitement – or lots of new nerves and worries. Sometimes, it’s both. You might find yourself asking questions you’d never thought of before, like, “why is prenatal care important?”
You want a doctor you can trust with all your new questions. If you live in the Coral Springs, Florida area and think you may be pregnant, schedule an appointment at Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology.
We are here to support you, from conception to birth and beyond. Call us today at 954) 340-1050 or book online.
Care from conception
Prenatal care is the health care you receive during pregnancy. According to the National Institutes of Health, prenatal care can help reduce complications and inform expectant parents about important steps they can take to protect their infant, and themselves, through pregnancy.
The first step is confirming your pregnancy. Generally, you should go to a doctor for your first prenatal exam between 6 and 8 weeks after your last period. But if you are eager to find out whether you are pregnant, a blood test can confirm pregnancy as soon as 7-12 days after conception. You don’t have to wait two weeks for an accurate urine test. Urine and blood tests both test for the same pregnancy hormone: human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG. Your body begins to produce this hormone as soon as a fertilized egg implants in the uterus.
Why is prenatal care important?
So, why is prenatal care so important? Babies of mothers who do not receive regular prenatal care are more likely to have complications. Prenatal care is key to a healthier pregnancy, birth, and baby!
Receiving obstetric care through your pregnancy is an opportunity for you to learn more about your pregnancy and what you need to do to be healthy. Your doctor can advise you on diet, exercise, and other factors that influence your well-being, and your baby’s. Plus, prenatal care offers emotional and mental support at a time when you are going through a lot of new experiences.
If your doctor sees you regularly through pregnancy, they can catch health problems early and in many cases can treat them before they develop into something more serious.
Prenatal care includes important tests and screenings for you and your baby, with consideration of your health history and family background. Your doctor can discuss these tests with you and help you navigate the information.
It isn’t just about the pregnancy. You can also learn about labor and delivery and make a plan for the best birth you can have.
If you’re asking “why is prenatal care important?”, we can help.
We are ready to talk compassionately about all the questions arising from your pregnancy. Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology is accepting new patients and would love to hear from you.
Our respected and friendly doctors are proud to be a top choice for your health care. Don’t wait! Contact us to schedule your appointment today.
You can easily book online or give us a call at (954) 340-1050.