Do I Really Need Prenatal Care?
Keep yourself and your baby healthy with prenatal care
What is prenatal care?
Prenatal care consists of the medical attention and services that you receive before or during your pregnancy. Early and regular prenatal care is one of the best ways for a mom-to-be and her baby to have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. “A prenatal care plan with a healthcare provider can help prevent pregnancy complications, promote a healthier pregnancy, and increase the likelihood of carrying baby to term,” says Kettering Physician Network OB/GYN Amanda Sample, MD.
The traditional prenatal appointment schedule involves monthly visits to your OB/GYN during weeks 1-28 of pregnancy, bi-monthly visits from weeks 28-36, and weekly visits after week 36 of pregnancy until delivery.
Why do I need it?
At prenatal appointments, physicians check on the well-being of baby and mom. Women can expect to learn more about the development of their baby and things they can be doing to ensure a safe and rewarding pregnancy experience.
Where can I get it?
Several affiliated Kettering Health Network OB/GYN practices have offices throughout the Greater Dayton and Hamilton areas. When it comes time to deliver your baby, Kettering Health Network offers four Maternity Centers conveniently located at Soin Medical Center, Southview Medical Center, Kettering Medical Center, and Fort Hamilton Hospital.
“We understand that having a baby can be overwhelming, and we want to make sure that all moms are getting access to the information they need early on in their pregnancies,” says Kettering Physician Network OB/GYN Sarah Raines, DO.
Additional Resources
Kettering Health Network offers multiple Baby Fairs throughout the year for expecting and planning-to-expect parents. Baby Fairs are free, open-house events where future parents can learn more about successful pregnancy planning, financial planning, what to anticipate during pregnancy, and what to expect once baby arrives.
Baby Fair Activities
• Meet obstetricians
• Receive fertility and conception information
• Receive childbirth education information
• Check your car seat’s safety
• Tour Labor & Delivery Suites
• Visit baby retailer booths
Fun for the Entire Family
• Dad’s Derby
• Doc McStuffins
• Balloon artist
• Face painting
• Giveaways
• Door Prizes
• Refreshments
• …and so much more!