Pre-natal test and exams during pregnancy
Taking care of a new life may seem overwhelming at first. Do not worry you will get all the necessary help to prepare for your baby’s arrival. One of the best ways to give your baby a healthy start is to get proper pre-natal care. Pre-natal care is not only essential for your baby, but for your health as well. Once you have visited your doctor, he or she will make sure that you will get all the help you will need.
During these visits, you can expect the following:
Weight, blood pressure, urine and sample checks
At 16 to 18 weeks, your doctor may listen to your baby’s heartbeat
At about 28 weeks, a blood test may be done to measure the sugar level in your blood
Between 32 to 36 weeks, a vaginal exam may be done-to check for bacteria.
When you are close to your due date, a vaginal exam will be done to check for changes in your cervix that may indicate that labor is getting closer.
Your doctor will also talk about nutrition during pregnancy. In addition to warning you away from alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, he or she may advise you to consume more protein, calcium, iron, and fluids. Since it can be hard to get enough of certain nutrients, such as folic acid, your doctor may recommend that you take a daily pre-natal vitamin to be on the safe side.
Take the opportunity to ask your doctor about diet, activity during pregnancy, and other concerns that you may have. This is the only time that you and your child are one. Make the most out of this wonderful period in your life.
