Whether you're expecting a baby or still considering getting pregnant, proper health care plays a crucial role in having a healthy pregnancy and delivery for you and your baby. And, the best way to get it is through routine prenatal checkups.
As an experienced obstetrician and gynecologist, Paul W. Morrison, M.D., offers personalized and compassionate care to all women at his practice in Newburgh, Indiana. If you’re ready to start your prenatal journey, here’s what you need to know about routine care during your pregnancy and why it’s never too early to get started.
Most people think prenatal care starts at the moment of conception. However, talking to Dr. Morrison before becoming pregnant can also increase your chances of having a full-term pregnancy and delivering a healthy baby.
Preconception counseling focuses on identifying any potential issues that could affect your pregnancy. During this appointment, Dr. Morrison looks for any underlying issues and makes personalized recommendations to improve your overall health and wellness, such as:
Dr. Morrison can also review any medications you may be taking that could impact your fertility or pregnancy, and he can let you know when you can start trying to become pregnant after you discontinue using birth control.
As soon as you think you’re pregnant, Dr. Morrison recommends booking a visit — ideally at the eight-week mark. However, even if you don’t know how long you’ve been pregnant, he can perform a variety of tests and measure your baby to estimate your due date.
Throughout your pregnancy, Dr. Morrison will schedule regular visits that increase in frequency as you near your due date. For example, you can usually expect to have a prenatal appointment every four weeks during the first 28 weeks of your pregnancy. From weeks 28-36, your visits will typically occur every two weeks. By week 36, Dr. Morrison may recommend weekly appointments until you deliver.
During each of your prenatal checkups, Dr. Morrison will perform a variety of tests and screenings that track your health and the development of your baby to ensure your pregnancy is progressing smoothly.
Prenatal testing often includes:
Dr. Morrison also offers both 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds and optional screenings for genetic diseases.
Not only does routine prenatal care reduce your risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, but it also provides an opportunity to develop a trusted relationship with a medical professional. That means you can always find answers to questions related to your pregnancy, including:
As a close partner during your pregnancy, Dr. Morrison can also reduce any anxiety you may have about the entire process and help make sure you have a birth plan in place.
To start your pregnancy on a healthy path, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D. today.
