Prenatal Check-Up Schedule & Importance

Prenatal

oi-Gowri Nandini

By Nandhini Devi

Wednesday, July 6, 2011, 17:38

You have planned to have a baby and have conceived. After you get the first symptom of pregnancy, you plan to visit a certified professional to seek guidance. This is called as prenatal check-up. These check-ups are done on a regular basis in the entire gestational period. Prenatal check-up is very important to monitor both your baby and your health. Extra caution can be taken in case of any health risks.

A Prenatal Check-up Schedule is often prescribed to a pregnant woman. There can be an alteration in the schedule in case of any emergencies. The fist prenatal check-up is usually done in the between 8-12 weeks of pregnancy.

After the first prenatal check-up, the next one is planned after 4-6 weeks. After the 30th week the tests are done every 2-3 weeks once. Once you reach the 36th week, a check-up is done once every week or once in 15 days till the time of labour.

Importance of first prenatal check-up: The first thing that is determined in this stage is exactly how many day's has it been since you have conceived. An ultrasound is carried on to determine this. A blood test is done to determine the blood group, Rh factor and HIV infection. The gynaecologist then goes through your medical and family history to note any genetic disorders that may cause problems to the child. Important vitamins like folic acid are prescribed to help growth of the child.

During the next prenatal check-up schedules your weight, blood pressure and the baby's heartbeat will be monitored. Usually an ultrasound scan is done during the 20th week to check if the baby is growing normally.

During the third trimester, check-ups are more frequent. This is because many women might have many health problems. Sometimes there might be a need to perform early or premature delivery. All these things are noted towards the end of the pregnancy.

Antenatal or prenatal care are very important for an expecting mother. Build a good relation with your doctor during these visits. Do not hesitate about communicating with your doctor, if you feel insecure about any changes that occur. Take care and enjoy being pregnant.