Prenatal Care Specialist

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care refers to the checkups, tests, and medical care you receive throughout pregnancy. The team at Balanced Births believe in providing a warm, personal touch and continuity of care before, during, and after your pregnancy. 

Why is prenatal care important?

Prenatal care is an essential part of maintaining optimal wellness for both you and your baby. The team at Balanced Births monitors your health and your baby’s development to prevent problems that may otherwise remain undetected, such as high blood pressure. 

Your prenatal visits are also an excellent opportunity to ask questions about what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth. The team at Balanced Births may help you create a birth plan and help you prepare for labor and delivery.

How often do I need prenatal checkups?

You should schedule your first prenatal appointment as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. The team at Balanced Births will recommend a personalized prenatal care plan based on your unique situation. Generally, prenatal checkups occur:

• Once a month for weeks 4-28
• Twice a month for weeks 28-36
• Weekly for weeks 36-birth

If you’re over age 35 or have a high-risk pregnancy, you may need to come in more frequently. 

What happens at a prenatal visit?

Your first prenatal checkup may be longer than the appointments that follow. Our team thoroughly reviews your medical history and asks questions about your family’s health history. 

We perform a complete physical exam, including a pelvic exam and Pap test, and may take blood and urine tests. 

The first visit is a good time to ask any questions you may have about what to expect during pregnancy and steps you can take to stay healthy. 

Later prenatal checkups may be shorter and more focused on monitoring your health and making sure your baby is developing as expected. This may include:

• Measuring your weight
• Checking your blood pressure
• Checking the baby’s heart rate

Some prenatal checkups include other tests, such as in-office ultrasounds. Depending on your age and overall health, the team at Balanced Births may recommend additional tests, such as genetic testing. 

For patient-centered prenatal care, call the office of Balanced Births or book an appointment online today.