The Ultimate Guide to Prenatal Care in Howard County

Finding out you’re expecting a little bundle of joy is one of life’s most exciting moments. Along with the flurry of different emotions comes a long list of to-dos.

One of the most important is ensuring that you get quality prenatal care in Howard County. A healthy pregnancy starts with regular checkups and support every step of the way. 

Wondering what prenatal care involves, how soon you should start, or what happens at these appointments? Let’s break all of the key facts down in this ultimate guide.

Why Prenatal Care in Howard County is So Important

This type of care involves regular checkups to monitor your health and your baby’s development. While you’re probably expecting bloodwork, urine tests, and ultrasound, there’s a lot more that goes into it.

Prenatal services also involve nutrition advice, emotional support, and learning what to expect at every stage of pregnancy.

So why are prenatal appointments so important? Early and consistent care for both mom and baby has shown to:

• Lower the risk of pregnancy complications
• Thoroughly track your baby’s development and growth
• Detect, manage, and treat potential health issues
• Provide a safe space to ask questions and get support

Whether it’s your third baby or your first, prenatal care is a critical part of feeling prepared, informed, and confident during your pregnancy.

When Should Prenatal Care Begin?

As soon as you find out you’re pregnant, you should schedule your first visit for prenatal care in Howard County.

Most providers see patients between six to eight weeks of pregnancy, though some may see you earlier depending on your symptoms and medical history.

The earlier you get care, the better. This is especially if you’re over the age of 35, have certain health conditions, or are pregnant after a loss.

What Happens at the First Prenatal Appointment?

Your first prenatal visit is the longest, as there’s a lot to go over. During this appointment you can expect to discuss your full health history, including underlying health conditions, previous pregnancies, and any miscarriages you’ve experienced.

This visit also involves:

• Bloodwork and urine lab tests
• A physical exam, including a pelvic exam
• Confirming pregnancy and calculating your due date
• Discussion about prenatal vitamins and nutrition

You’ll also want to ask your OB any questions you have or voice any concerns. This appointment is the time to get all of the information you need so that you feel prepared.

What About Ongoing Visits?

After your initial appointment, you’ll have scheduled visits. Until 28 weeks, you’ll see your doctor every four weeks.

From 28 weeks to 36 weeks, visits for prenatal care in Howard County become more frequent, usually every two weeks.

From 36 weeks until delivery, appointments are scheduled weekly.

During these appointments your provider will check:

• Your weight and blood pressure
• Urine for signs of sugar or protein
• Baby’s heart rate
• Fundal height
• Any new symptoms or concerns

Once you enter the third trimester, appointments may include cervical checks. You’ll also talk about delivery preferences, labor, and postpartum care.

Common Tests and Screenings to Expect

Throughout your pregnancy, your doctor will use various tests and screenings to assess the health of you and your baby.

Common ones to expect include:

• Blood tests to screen for infections while also checking blood type and iron levels
• Glucose tolerance test, which occurs during weeks 24 to 28 to screen for gestational diabetes
• Ultrasounds, which are usually performed at eight weeks and around 20 weeks (anatomy scan)
• Genetic screenings to test for conditions like cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, and others
• Group B strep test, usually performed around 36 weeks to check for a specific strain a bacteria that can be passed to your baby during birth

Not all of these tests are mandatory, and your provider may recommend others, based on your situation.

Tips to Best Take Care of Yourself During Pregnancy

Prenatal care goes beyond what happens at your OB/GYN’s office. Taking care of yourself between visits is vital.

Here are some tips to follow to best support you and your baby’s needs.

1. Eat a balanced, wholesome diet. Focus on eating whole foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Of course, don’t avoid your cravings, but strive to eat as many nutritious foods as possible.
2. Take prenatal supplements. Taking prenatal vitamins helps to cover any nutritional gaps while also ensuring you’re getting enough folic acid, calcium, and iron.
3. Get plenty of rest. Growing a baby takes a lot out of you! To say it’s hard work would be an understatement. Listen to your body and always make sleep a priority. This is especially true in the first and third trimester, when fatigue is at its highest.
4. Stay active. Unless otherwise advised by your provider, participate in routine light to moderate exercise. Swimming, walking, and prenatal yoga are great options that can reduce aches and pains while also boosting your mood.
5. Manage your stress levels. Pregnancy can cause all sorts of emotions, especially due to hormonal shifts. Light movement, music, meditation, journaling, or talking to a therapist can reduce stress and support your mental health.

Come to Capital Women’s Care for Quality Prenatal Care in Howard County

You and your growing baby deserve the best care possible. For warm, compassionate providers who will support you every step of the way, choose Capital Women’s Care Howard County.

We can’t wait to be part of your journey to motherhood!

Contact our office online or give us a call at 410-314-0001 to schedule an appointment today!