The Importance of Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is essential in promoting a healthy pregnancy, reducing the risk of complications, and supporting the overall health of mother and child through each trimester. 

At Memorial Women’s Specialists, our gynecology and OB/GYN team offers comprehensive prenatal and obstetrics care at our office in Houston, Texas.

The importance of prenatal care

Every pregnancy is different, but prenatal care generally begins at around week four of pregnancy. You should call to schedule your first prenatal appointment as soon as you find out you’re pregnant.

Here’s what you can generally expect from your prenatal care:

Monitoring maternal health during pregnancy

Prenatal care involves regular check-ups, screenings, and tests to monitor the mother's health. It helps to catch and manage any pre-existing medical conditions common during pregnancy, like high blood pressure or diabetes. 

Detecting and managing pregnancy complications

Prenatal care allows our OB/GYN team to diagnose and address potential complications that may develop during your pregnancy. Potentially severe conditions, like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or infections, can be identified and managed effectively when caught early, reducing the risk of pregnancy complications for both mother and child.

Promoting fetal development

Regular prenatal visits monitor the growth and development of the fetus and ensure the baby is developing correctly. That includes monitoring fetal heart rate, checking for abnormalities, and performing ultrasounds to assess the baby's growth and development.

Nutritional guidance

Prenatal care also involves providing guidance and education on proper nutrition and diet during your pregnancy. A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential for the healthy growth and development of the fetus. Our team can offer recommendations on your specific dietary needs, including important nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for fetal development and your overall health and well-being throughout the pregnancy.

Preventive care

Prenatal care also includes vaccinations and preventive care to protect you and your baby from infections. Vaccinations against diseases like influenza and tetanus can reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and protect your newborn after delivery.

Education and counseling

Prenatal care also offers an opportunity for our obstetrics team to educate and counsel expectant mothers on various aspects of pregnancy and answer questions about childbirth and postnatal care. 

Our team will help you prepare for everything, including breastfeeding, labor and delivery options, infant care, and how to manage postpartum depression. Regular prenatal care visits are strongly recommended for all pregnant women.

For more information about prenatal care and the OB/GYN services available at Memorial Women’s Specialists, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Houston.