(BPT) - The pregnancy journey can be an exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — experience for new moms-to-be. Taking steps to stay healthy and making it a priority to get care before, during and after your pregnancy can help get you and your baby off to a good start.
Nearly 1 in 4 women in the U.S. do not begin prenatal care (the care you receive while pregnant) during the first trimester of their pregnancy, which can have an impact on the overall health of the baby.1 If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, the most important step to take is to visit a doctor.
"We're seeing far too many preventable complications simply because care starts too late — or not at all," said Nancy Parson, RN, UnitedHealthcare. "But the good news is, support is available. No one has to go through this journey alone."
Having prenatal care is one of the best ways to for both you and your baby.
If you need help finding a doctor or have questions about health coverage, call the number on your plan ID card or contact your local health department or Medicaid program.
Knowing more about what to expect and plan for can help provide reassurance through every stage of pregnancy.
If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, the most important step to take is to visit a doctor.
Prenatal appointments
Common symptoms of pregnancy include a missed period; sore breasts; nausea; fatigue; and slightly higher body temperature. If you suspect you are pregnant or test positive through an at-home pregnancy test, call your doctor to start care.
"The first trimester is an important time for both mom and baby," Nancy said. "Early care helps your provider identify risks, offer support and work with you to build a plan that promotes a healthy pregnancy experience."
During a prenatal care appointment (depending on where you are in your pregnancy), your provider will:
Provide an estimated due date
Review your medical history
Perform a physical exam and any necessary tests
Measure your baby's growth and check your baby's heartbeat
Determine the frequency/schedule for future appointments
Prenatal appointments are ongoing throughout the pregnancy, routinely starting at once a month and increasing to every one to two weeks as your due date gets closer. These appointments are also when an ultrasound will take place.
Obstetric ultrasounds, which help your provider monitor fetal development, assess the health of your uterus and placenta, and check for potential abnormalities. They also help estimate gestational age (how far along the pregnancy is) and determine the number of fetuses in a multiple pregnancy.
Prenatal visits with your provider are an opportunity for you to ask questions about symptoms, diet, exercise, medications and more. Keeping a running list of questions to ask at each appointment can also be helpful as you prepare for your baby's arrival.
Doula care
As part of your care plan, your provider may suggest a doula. Unlike a doctor who provides medical care, a is a non-clinical professional who offers emotional, mental and physical support during labor and delivery. The services a doula provides are different than those of a doctor but can be just as essential to those who rely on them throughout a pregnancy.
Doulas can help:
Calm worries
Provide comfort and coaching
Provide education about pregnancy, labor, breastfeeding, and more
Translate medical terms and procedures into plain language
Help when communicating with your doctor
Doulas serve as advocates to help make sure you are being heard and your needs are addressed. Working with a doula may help lead to improved health outcomes for mothers, with fewer labor complications, less pain medication and shorter labors.2
Postpartum care
The care you receive after delivery is known as . Almost 40% of women do not follow up with postpartum care that is important for proper recovery and support.3 Postpartum care is just as critical as prenatal care for managing both the physical and emotional changes that happen after having a baby. Your doctor can help address concerns including:
Your mental and emotional health
Caring for your newborn
Nursing your baby
Diet and exercise
"During that postpartum period, you may feel unusually low or overwhelmed. This could be a sign of postpartum depression, a common, but treatable condition," Nancy said. "Many providers now screen for postpartum mental health concerns, so it's important to speak openly with your doctor about how you're feeling."
It is recommended that your first postpartum appointment take place the first three weeks after birth, with ongoing care if needed and a follow-up visit 12 weeks later.4
To learn more about what to expect during your pregnancy, plus access helpful tools, resources and a , visit .
1. , National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
2. , Mayo Clinic
3. , Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)
4. , American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
