Prenatal care is an all-encompassing term for the care you receive from an obstetrician combined with healthy habits at home. Once your pregnancy is confirmed with an at-home pregnancy test, you should call your physician and begin to take a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. Most physicians begin prenatal care around the mother’s eighth week of pregnancy. For the first part of the pregnancy the mother will visit the doctor approximately every four weeks where she will be weighed and measured to determine the baby’s growth and the doctor will listen for the baby’s heartbeat. When the pregnancy enters the third trimester the frequency of appointments will increase. Throughout the pregnancy the mother will undergo blood work, at least one ultrasound, and other testing to ensure the health of the mother and the baby.
Expectant mothers should also be sure to take care of themselves at home. In addition to taking a prenatal vitamin, the patient should maintain a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, calcium, protein, and healthy fats. There are some foods and habits that should be avoided, such as smoking, undercooked meats and fish. Patients should also exercise and maintain an active lifestyle during pregnancy, unless directed otherwise by their doctor. Most obstetricians indicate that expectant mothers can continue with pre-pregnancy exercise routines, with realistic modifications until it becomes uncomfortable. Finally, expectant mothers should try to rest as much as possible and avoid unnecessary stress.
Pregnancy is an exciting time and can be enjoyed by the entire family as you wait for a healthy baby. For more information about prenatal care in the Katy area, call the office of Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine today.
Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine
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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 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.
Dr. Adebola I. Falae, MD, FACOG received her undergraduate degree from Duke University in Durham, NC, and medical degree from University of Rochester Medical School, NY. She completed her residency training at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans, LA. Women’s healthcare is her primary concern.
Dr. Maria Torres, MD, FACOG earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University, and her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, before completing residency training at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She’s an expert in infertility evaluation and high-risk pregnancies.
