Pregnancy Specialist

Why is prenatal care necessary?

Prenatal care helps you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Prenatal care follows the growth of your baby, ensures they’re developing correctly, and monitors your health. Women who get regular prenatal care are more likely to have a healthy delivery and a baby of a normal birth weight compared to women who do not.

When Dr. Ardalan sees you regularly through your pregnancy, she can spot health problems with you or the baby early, so they can be treated and are less likely to become serious. She is also available to answer any questions you have about topics such as:

• Weight gain and diet
• Exercise
• Medications and prenatal vitamins
• Risky behaviors to avoid

Dr. Ardalan is a valuable resource to women, no matter if you’re pregnant with your first or fifth child.

How often should I schedule prenatal visits?

Dr. Ardalan sets a schedule for you depending on your pregnancy and risk factors for complications. In most cases, expect to visit the doctor once each month in the first 28 weeks of pregnancy, twice per month for the next eight weeks, and weekly for pregnancy weeks 36 through delivery.

Some women who are older than 35 or have been deemed high risk may need more frequent visits.

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A high-risk pregnancy means you have a greater chance of complications during pregnancy and delivery. Reasons you might be considered high-risk include:

• Your age, as women older than 35 are more likely to give birth to babies with birth defects
• You’re pregnant with multiples
• You have an existing chronic condition, such as lupus or diabetes
• You develop a condition during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes

If the baby has a genetic condition or is at great risk of developing one, you may also need more monitoring and testing during pregnancy.

What types of tests will I undergo during pregnancy?

At each prenatal visit, expect to have your weight and blood pressure checked. You may have periodic blood tests to check for anemia, strep B, and HIV as well as urine tests to check for urinary tract infections.

The doctor regularly measures your abdomen to monitor your baby’s growth, once you begin to show. You also undergo regular ultrasounds to check your baby’s growth and internal development. The office boasts a 3D ultrasound to give you the best pictures of your baby.

To schedule your prenatal care, call Women Elite Care, Inc. or book an appointment online.