Prenatal Care – Care Before and During Pregnancy

Getting early and regular prenatal care is one of the best ways to promote a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal care is more than just health care; it often includes education and counseling about how to handle different aspects of pregnancy, such as nutrition and physical activity, what to expect from the birth itself, and basic skills for caring for your infant.

Prenatal visits also give you and your family a chance to talk to your health care provider about any questions or concerns you have related to your pregnancy, birth, or parenthood.

Many health care providers recommend that a woman who is only thinking about getting pregnant see a health care provider about preconception health. There are steps she can take to reduce the risk of certain problems.