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Prenatal
Care for a Healthy Baby
Early and regular prenatal care is important
for the health of you and your baby. During your prenatal visits,
the doctor or other health care provider will check to see that
your pregnancy is progressing normally. If you develop a problem
or have a risk condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes,
prenatal care may keep it from becoming serious.
Prenatal care includes:
- Blood, urine, and other tests
- Ongoing medical care such as blood pressure
checks, measurement of uterine growth, checks of the baby's heartbeat
and pelvic exams as needed
- Prenatal education on pregnancy, labor, delivery,
baby care, parenting, and family planning
- Answers to your questions
- Nutritional assessment and counseling
You have a part in your prenatal care:
- Start care within the first three months of
pregnancy. Early care can ensure that any potential problems are
identified and treated as soon as possible.
- Eat a well-balanced diet of wholesome foods.
- Attend childbirth classes if possible.
- Tell the doctor or nurse anything you think
is important for your and your baby's health.
- Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, drugs, and
other harmful agents.
- Check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter
medicines (including pain killers like aspirin, cold remedies,
etc.)
- Know the warning signs in pregnancy and tell
your doctor or nurse at once if you experience them.
If you live in Florida, the Family Health Line
can help your prenatal care plans by:
- Providing referrals for low-cost prenatal care,
childbirth preparation classes, breastfeeding support, and drug
treatment
- Answering your questions about pregnancy, breastfeeding,
and effects of drug use during pregnancy
For more information in Florida, call the Family
Health Line at 1-800-451-BABY.
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