Pregnancy is an incredible journey, filled with excitement and a few uncertainties along the way. The good news? Great prenatal care can make all the difference—not just for your baby, but for your peace of mind too. Here are seven simple yet powerful ways to make the most of your prenatal healthcare and ensure a healthy, happy pregnancy!

1. Seek care as soon as possible

If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to see a qualified obstetrician right away. Whether you’ve taken an at-home test or not, a doctor can confirm your pregnancy and guide you toward a healthy delivery. There’s so much to plan when preparing for a baby, and prenatal care is the first step.

2. Be honest about past and present issues

Your obstetrician will be your guide throughout your pregnancy journey. Feeling shy about bringing up certain health issues is normal, but your doctor is there to listen, support, and care for you. Being honest about your health history is key to creating the best plan for a healthy pregnancy. If you’re experiencing challenges at home, including unsafe situations, know that your doctor can help you navigate them.

3. Get ready for your first visit

Your first visit is an important step, so consider bringing your partner and scheduling plenty of time. You’ll probably have a lot of questions, and your doctor will take the time to address them. Write down your concerns in advance and don’t hesitate to take notes during the visit. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with so much information, but you don’t need to become an expert all at once. Here are some things you can include in a list to help keep your mind organized and at ease.

• Your medical history, including any chronic conditions or past surgeries
• Family medical history, including genetic conditions
• Current medications, supplements, or vitamins you are taking
• Any allergies to medications or foods
• Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and sleep patterns
• Symptoms you are experiencing, such as nausea or fatigue
• Whether you have had previous pregnancies or miscarriages
• The estimated due date and how it is calculated
• Recommended prenatal tests and screenings
• Any concerns about labor, delivery, or postnatal care

4. Build a plan for your pregnancy

Your prenatal care will begin with a thorough physical exam, which may include tests like blood work, urine samples, and other evaluations. These help your obstetrician understand what you and your baby need for a healthy pregnancy. Setting a due date is a helpful guideline for tracking milestones, though most babies don’t arrive exactly on that date. Think of it as an estimate to help you prepare for the months ahead.

5. Be prepared for changes

Pregnancy often comes with lifestyle adjustments to give your baby the best start in life. Your doctor can guide you through changes to your diet, exercise, and other habits. As your baby grows, your body will change in ways you might not expect, and some changes may feel unsettling. Talk openly with your doctor about the physical and emotional shifts ahead. Being informed can help turn potential challenges into manageable steps. Here are some changes that may happen, but are completely normal during pregnancy.

• Weight Gain: It’s natural and healthy to gain weight during pregnancy, as your body is nourishing another human being. However, it’s important to gain weight at a steady pace and within the recommended range for your BMI (body mass index). Your doctor will closely monitor your weight gain throughout pregnancy and make any necessary adjustments to ensure you and your baby are both healthy.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can cause physical changes in your body, such as morning sickness, fatigue, mood swings, and skin changes. These hormonal fluctuations play an essential role in preparing your body for childbirth and caring for your baby after birth. Although these changes can be uncomfortable at times, they are normal and temporary.
• Increased Blood Volume: Another common change during pregnancy is an increase in blood volume, which supports the growing fetus and helps prepare your body for delivery. This can sometimes lead to visible veins or occasional swelling in the hands and feet.
• Hair and Nail Changes: Many women also experience changes in their hair and nails, often noticing faster growth or a difference in texture. These changes are influenced by hormonal shifts and can vary widely from person to person.

6. Take the right tests for you and your baby

As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll visit your doctor regularly to track your baby’s growth and development. Feel free to bring your partner along for these appointments. There will be additional tests along the way, and your doctor will help you decide which ones are necessary for you and your baby.

If you or your partner don’t know your family’s medical history, extra testing can help assess your baby’s risks for genetic conditions. Even if you do have this information, further testing may still be recommended, particularly for mothers over 35 who may face unique risks.

7. Know the dangerous symptoms to watch out for

During your first trimester, it’s important to be aware of certain symptoms, such as bleeding, cramping, unusual discharge or odor, trouble urinating, fever, chills, or any heavy impact to your abdomen. Your obstetrician will likely provide an on-call number for emergencies, so you can reach out anytime if something feels wrong. In serious cases, you may need to visit the emergency room for immediate care. Always trust your instincts and seek help if you’re concerned.

Get the best women’s healthcare in Amarillo, Texas

For exceptional women’s healthcare in Amarillo, Texas, connect with the dedicated physicians at Women’s Healthcare Associates today. Our experienced team provides personalized care tailored to the health and well-being of every patient. We offer a range of services, including digital mammography, prenatal and pregnancy care, bone density screenings, and contraception options. To discover how our comprehensive care can support you, call us at 806-355-6330.