What are Prenatal Check-Ups?
Prenatal check-ups are regular medical visits that a pregnant woman attends to monitor the health and development of her baby and herself. These check-ups typically start in the first trimester and continue until the baby is born.
Why are Prenatal Check-Ups Important?
Prenatal check-ups are critical for ensuring a healthy pregnancy. They help in
early detection of potential complications, provide important health education, and offer a platform for expecting mothers to ask questions and voice concerns.
Every 4 weeks until 28 weeks
Every 2 weeks from 28 to 36 weeks
Every week from 36 weeks until delivery
Checking
blood pressure Measuring weight
Checking the baby’s
heartbeat Measuring the size of the uterus
Taking urine tests to check for glucose and protein levels
What symptoms are normal and which should I be concerned about?
How much weight should I gain?
What kinds of exercise are safe?
Are there foods or activities I should avoid?
What are the signs of
preterm labor?
Ultrasound scans
Glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes
Blood tests for anemia, blood type, and infectious diseases
Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) for genetic screening
Severe abdominal pain
Bleeding or spotting
Severe headaches
Sudden swelling in hands, feet, or face
Decreased fetal movement
Conclusion
Prenatal check-ups are an indispensable part of a healthy pregnancy. They help in monitoring and maintaining the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Regular visits, open communication with your gynecologist, and following medical advice are key to a successful pregnancy.
