Prenatal visits to a health-care provider, whether it be an obstetrician (OB physician), family practitioner or midwife, should be the first priority of every woman who either knows she is pregnant or suspects it. Early and consistent medical care ensures an optimum outcome for both the baby and the expectant mother.
One major study showed that women who went to an average of 12.7 prenatal visits gave birth to larger babies than those who went only an average of 1.4 times.
During the first prenatal visit , your health care provider can evaluate whether your gynecological history puts you at increased risk of complications during pregnancy. Previous medical conditions will be evaluated. You can then be advised of any precautions you may need to take in order to ensure a safe, healthy pregnancy. If you have high blood pressure, for example, your provider will monitor you closely and may recommend dietary restrictions.
Effective prenatal care can help prevent miscarriage , some birth defects and low birth weight babies. Prenatal vitamins , for example, may be critical for supplying the expectant mom with adequate levels of vitamins and minerals. Studies have found that low levels of folic acid during the first trimester can contribute to spina bifida, a defect causing deformity of the spinal column. Taking a prenatal supplement before you conceive and into the first trimester can reduce the odds of a woman having a newborn with spina bifida or other complications.
Read more on: Getting Pregnant