Maintaining optimal health throughout a pregnancy is essential in making sure mom and baby are getting proper care. Pregnancy care should include doctor checkups as soon as the mother realizes she may be pregnant. Early care will help detect certain diseases or problems for both mom and baby should there be any.
Ultrasounds
One important aspect regarding pregnancy care is getting an ultrasound done periodically throughout the pregnancy. Initially, this will determine how far along the mother is, after which she will be given an estimated due date. The due date is calculated from the date of the last missed menstrual period in conjunction with the size and weight of the fetus. The ultrasound can be done internally or externally, depending on the physician's preference. Ultrasounds can also detect health defects with the baby that may need to be addressed before birth.
Prenatal Visits
Prenatal visits are important throughout the pregnancy. Most mothers to be visit an OB/GYN who specializes in prenatal care and delivery. Other options may be a family physician, registered nurse, midwife or nurse practitioner. At the prenatal visit, the nurse or doctor will record the mother's weight, address health changes and sometimes use a fetal heart monitor to listen to the baby's heart rate. A pelvic exam may also be conducted to determine the condition of the cervix and surrounding tissue.
Vitamins
At a prenatal visit, the doctor or nurse may prescribe prenatal vitamins. These are essential in assuring mother and baby receive proper nutrients during the pregnancy. Vitamins and minerals can be lost especially in the first and early second trimester when morning sickness is prevalent. Nausea also limits a lot of foods that the mom may eat, which can ultimately have an effect on the growth of the baby. Prenatal vitamins usually consist of vitamins A, C, D and E, folic acid, thiamine, calcium and zinc.
Diet
Maintaining a healthful diet is important throughout the pregnancy. This includes avoiding foods that are high in fat and sodium. Foods high in whole grains along with lean meats and vegetables are good selections. Keeping weight gain down is important to prevent certain complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and excessive water retention. Mild exercise is also recommended in conjunction with a healthful diet. This may include walking or light housekeeping daily unless otherwise specified by the doctor.
Education
Staying educated on what to expect with labor and delivery is important. As women age their bodies change, so each pregnancy can be different. Attending Lamaze classes or learning how to relax through breathing will help the mom and her partner relax and know what to expect when the contractions begin and the cervix begins to dilate.
