Prenatal Health

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care is when you get check-ups from a doctor, nurse, or midwife throughout your pregnancy. It helps keep you and your baby healthy.

Why is prenatal care important?

Getting proper prenatal care is the best way to ensure that you give birth to a healthy baby and that you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy.

Regular prenatal care is important because your doctor will check for any health conditions that may affect your health or that of your baby. This enables you to make important decisions regarding your birth plan.

What happens at prenatal visits?

Subsequent visits will include checking your blood pressure, weight, and checking your baby’s heart rate and growth. You will also get to hear your baby’s heartbeat and ask questions about how your pregnancy is going. You can also discuss how you are feeling about being pregnant and growing your family.

Doctors and nurses are there to support you. If you need them to explain or rephrase something so that you understand, or if you would like to bring a support person or an interpreter, you can always ask for assistance.

What are the benefits of prenatal care?

At prenatal visits, you can:

• Get accurate nutritional information
• Ask questions about what to expect in your pregnancy
• Address concerns about your health or your baby's health
• Keep track of your baby's development
• Learn more about labour and delivery