The role of obstetrics and gynecology in pregnancy planning in Katy

Whether you are becoming a first time mom, or growing your family, pregnancy can be one of the most exciting, and frightening events of your life. Naturally, you want to do everything in your power to give your baby a great start in life. One of the most important things you can do for yourself and your child is see a doctor early, and maintain regular visits throughout pregnancy

Initial appointment

Moms in Katy, TX, count on Dr. Taryll Jenkins for compassionate, quality care. The best time to schedule a visit is before you become pregnant. Many foods, habits, medications, or illnesses can endanger your baby, even before he or she is conceived. A comprehensive preconception evaluation can identify these factors.

It is important to be honest and thorough in providing relevant information, and answering questions. Prior to your appointment, it may be helpful to write down a list of questions that you want to ask, and information you need to provide. Be sure to tell the doctor about:

Any medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, even those labeled as natural or herbal
Habits such as drinking, smoking, or any kind of substance abuse
Past miscarriages or problematic pregnancies
High stress level at home or work
Chemical exposure or heavy labor associated with your job
Existing medical conditions

Preparing for pregnancy

Your health and any substances in your body at the time of conception can have an impact on your baby before you realize that you are pregnant. Some risk factors are unavoidable, such as diabetes or past ectopic pregnancies. Dr. Jenkins will explain the risks, as well as how they can be minimized by maintaining optimal health. In some situations, he will recommend frequent check-ups or testing more frequently during pregnancy.

Many of complications and risks to your child’s health can be avoided. Dr. Jenkins will discuss topics such as proper nutrition, exercise needs and limitations, dietary supplements, and avoiding illness. He may recommend making changes to your habits or environment. In some cases, prescription medications will need to be discontinued or altered. Effective preconception and prenatal care requires a cooperative effort between you, your OBGYN, your general physician, and any specialists you see.

Call our office

New patients please call:
855-346-8610

Existing patients please call:
281-347-2600

Virtual Consultation

Healthy habits and quality medical care are the keys to a problem-free pregnancy and healthy baby. Call 855-346-8610 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins today.

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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L. Jenkins, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and his Doctorate of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.

Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today, she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with high-quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program in 2012 and, since then, has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.

Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.

Yara Ramirez, MD, earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, where she also completed her residency. She won the Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.

Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.