Prenatal Care – Is the medical health care recommended for pregnant women. The purpose of prenatal care is to monitor the progress of your pregnancy and the health of your unborn baby, to determine early and potential pregnancy complications, and to prevent them if possible. It’s important once you find out you are pregnant to contact your Doctor and schedule a prenatal visit.

Make sure to get enough sleep and eat healthy. Pre-natal vitamins are strongly encouraged. They have vital nutrients to aid in your baby’s development and they supplement your health. Make sure you get enough folic acid. Folic acid lowers your risk of some birth defects.

During Pregnancy you may experience

• Tender Breast
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling Tired
• Constipation and Hemorrhoids
• Cramps and Groin or Pelvic Pain
• Frequent Urination
• Heartburn
• Skin changes
• Swelling

What to Avoid during Pregnancy

• Alcohol
• Cigarettes and secondhand smoke
• Illegal/Prescription drugs, over the counter remedies, Herbs and Vitamins (consult a OBGYN first)
• Caffeine and Diet Soda
• Cat Litter and Raw Meat
• Raw and Cooked Fish
• Soft cheese
• Heavy Lifting and Exercise- Moderate exercise is safe and encouraged (walking, stationary bike)
• Hair Dye and Hot tubs
• Household Hazards

Basic Facts about early fetal development

• The baby’s heart begins beating at approximately 21 days after conception
• At 7 weeks the baby makes its own blood
• At 8 weeks the baby can move its trunk and limbs
• At 9 weeks the developing ears and nose are visible
• By week 11 the baby has all major organ systems
• By week 14 the baby is coordinated enough to find his/her thumb and suck it