So you find out you're pregnant. What now? Prenatal care is crucial for the healthy development of your baby. Getting prenatal care as soon as possible can reduce the risk of potential problems, such as low birth weight, and help you have a happy, healthy pregnancy.
The doctors at New Beginnings OB-GYN in Las Vegas are here to help you and share in this exciting experience with you. Our health specialists will guide you from the first trimester through birth with expert care, helpful advice, and a focus on you and your baby’s well-being.
Some of the first tests you will undergo in prenatal care will check for anemia, infections, and your immunity to diseases. Your doctor will check your blood type and Rh factor. Rh factor is a protein in your red blood cells that can protect your baby from getting anemia. Your doctor will also test for sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia, syphilis, and hepatitis.
Furthermore, your doctor will check to make sure you’re immune to measles and chickenpox. Depending on your age and family health history, your doctor might also order other tests or screenings to detect any potential health threats to your baby.
These are all routine prenatal tests. Our doctors will let you know what you’re being tested for. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Staying informed can help alleviate any fears you may have.
Besides making an appointment right away, you should get a flu shot. Pregnant women who get the flu can get very sick, which can cause complications at birth. You should also discuss taking a prenatal vitamin with your doctor and go over the medications you’re taking.
Regarding food, you should stay away from undercooked or raw foods to prevent getting toxoplasmosis, listeria, or other illnesses. Regarding foods you should eat, you should consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in calcium. By eating a healthy, balanced diet, you should get enough iron each day to avoid developing anemia. You should also drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
If you smoke or drink, you must stop. Our doctors will be happy to talk to you about quitting.
As your baby grows, you’re going to gain weight. Your doctor will measure your body mass index (BMI) to let you know how much weight you will likely gain. If you fall into the healthy BMI range, you will probably gain 25-30 pounds over your pregnancy.
If you enjoy a steaming hot bath after a stressful day, you’ll need to find another way to destress. Avoid hot tubs and very hot baths. Hot tubs can cause your temperature to rise too much, which can lead to birth defects. Instead of a long soak at the end of the day, try to schedule some moderate to intense aerobic activity. When you keep fit and healthy, your baby does, too.
There are many things you can do to ensure a healthy first-time pregnancy. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with New Beginnings OB-GYN today.
