HealthPartners - Your guide to pregnancy

PRENATAL CARE OVERVIEW

As soon as you think you’re pregnant, schedule your first prenatal appointment with a physician, midwife or other prenatal care provider. Having a healthy pregnancy puts you on the road to a healthy birth.

Here are some of the best reasons to see your health care provider for regular prenatal care : • Better chance of avoiding pregnancy surprises or emergencies • Early identification of any possible health issues or challenges • Practical information about giving your baby a healthy start in life • Building a trusting relationship with your health care provider • Ongoing assessment of you and your baby • Psychological assessment and support for you PRENATAL APPOINTMENTS How often you see your health care provider will be based on your health, your age, and how your pregnancy is progressing. Your provider will let you know when to schedule your next visit.

These follow-up visits will be shorter than your first appointment, but they are just as important. You may see your provider more often during the last couple of months of your pregnancy. During each of the 3 trimesters of your pregnancy, your health care provider may order different tests to monitor the health of you and your baby. Tests can include: • Blood and urine tests

• Sonography (ultrasound) • Genetic screening tests • Diagnostic tests

Your health care provider will recommend tests based on your health, your medical and family history, your baby’s development, and other important factors. You’ll find more information about why and how you may be tested on the following pages.

Your Guide to A Healthy Pregnancy 5