When you first learn you’re expecting, planning and decorating the nursery is an exciting project to take on. However, it’s also important to consider your baby’s current haven, which starts with prioritizing your own health. If you’re wondering what prenatal care consists of and how to optimize your routine, take advantage of this simple guide.

A Brief Guide to Prenatal Care

What Is Prenatal Care?

“Prenatal” refers to the entire pregnancy period before birth when the baby is growing and developing in the womb. Therefore, prenatal care consists of improving your health as an individual, so you can provide the ideal conditions for a growing embryo and fetus.

For the best chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth, expectant mothers are encouraged to quit smoking and refrain from drinking alcohol, as well as to avoid gaining an unhealthy amount of weight. They may also be encouraged to engage in light exercise, keep up with their immunizations, and reduce their stress.

Why Is It Important?

Taking better care of your body may reduce the risk of developmental issues in your child. For example, autism may be linked to the mother’s immune system, the medicines and foods she consumes, and whether or not she suffers from diabetes. Smoking and alcohol consumption have also been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The risk of some birth defects, such as cleft palate or cleft lip, may be diminished by quitting smoking.

What Are Some Ways to Elevate Prenatal Care?

An excellent way to ensure your health is on the right track is to make frequent appointments with a gynecologist. The doctor can perform ultrasounds and blood tests to rule out diabetes, obesity, and other health issues that might affect your baby.

To further reduce your risk of these conditions, your doctor may suggest exercise, such as walking, swimming, or using an elliptical. Many doctors also recommend taking prenatal vitamins, multivitamins that contain folic acid. This supplement has been shown to drastically reduce the risk of neural tube defects. 

If you’re eager to enhance your prenatal care regimen, seek guidance from the doctors at Advanced OB-GYN Services. These St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, specialists will answer all your questions and concerns with compassion and patience. They have over 30 years of experience providing women’s health services, and they’re proud to offer 24/7 on-call help to those in need. To learn more about their cutting-edge solutions, visit their website. You can also call (636) 928-1800 to make an appointment in St. Peters or dial (314) 291-2140 to reach the Bridgeton office.