The Importance of Prenatal Care

Congratulations! You’re expecting! After doing a little celebration dance and hugging your partner, one of the next things you should do is schedule a prenatal care visit. Prenatal care is the medical care you receive during your pregnancy. Even if you’re healthy and have had children before, it’s still important to receive regular checkups during your pregnancy.

Prenatal care can help ensure that you and your baby have a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Studies show that women who don’t receive adequate prenatal care increase their risk of pregnancy complications.

What happens during prenatal care visits?

At each prenatal care visit, Dr. Kevin Hooker conducts a variety of tests to ensure that your pregnancy is going smoothly and your baby is developing as it should. In addition to screening and other tests, Dr. Hooker weighs you at every appointment, conducts a physical exam, and also takes a urine sample. He’ll answer your many questions about pregnancy, birth, and caring for a newborn, as well as provide healthy diet and lifestyle advice. 

As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll see Dr. Hooker more frequently. With a healthy pregnancy, you should see your doctor every four to six weeks during the first 32 weeks of pregnancy. Then, every two to three weeks until 37 weeks. Then, as the countdown to giving birth gets closer, you’ll see Dr. Hooker every week. If complications are detected, you may see the doctor more frequently than what is outlined above.

Why are prenatal care visits important?

Prenatal care is vital for the baby and the mom’s health. Most importantly, these visits reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. Dr. Hooker can reduce your risks by:

Advising you on how to manage pre-existing conditions

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or mental health issues, seeing Dr. Hooker throughout your pregnancy can help you manage those conditions while ensuring a healthy pregnancy. 

Making sure your medications are safe

If you take medications for acne or other supplements, it’s important to understand how these medications may impact your baby. Dr. Hooker can advise whether these medications are safe or if you need to take a similar one that might be better for you and the baby.

Help you make a birth plan

Do you want a natural childbirth? Do you have questions or concerns about giving birth? During your prenatal visits, you can learn how to best prepare for a healthy delivery the way that is best for you.

Pregnant? Thinking about getting pregnant? If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, schedule an appointment with Dr. Hooker, at Lake Havasu OB/GYN Care, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, to receive expert and compassionate prenatal or pre-pregnancy care. You can also request an appointment online through this website.