Prenatal Care: Planning Ahead for a Healthy Pregnancy

Early and regular prenatal care gives you opportunities to ask questions, complete recommended screenings, and prepare for each stage of pregnancy. Although every pregnancy follows its own course, knowing the usual schedule and key milestones can make the months ahead feel more manageable.

Contact your OB-GYN as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test. Early care allows your provider to confirm and date the pregnancy, review your personal and family health history, discuss medications and supplements, order routine testing, and identify concerns that may affect your care.

For many healthy pregnancies, visits are scheduled every four weeks until 28 weeks, every two to three weeks from 28 to 36 weeks, and weekly from 36 weeks until delivery. Common milestones include an anatomy ultrasound around 19 to 21 weeks, gestational diabetes screening around 24 to 28 weeks, and Group B Streptococcus screening around 35 to 37 weeks. Patients who need additional monitoring may have more frequent appointments.

Prevention also includes making informed daily choices. Eat a balanced variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, calcium-rich foods, and protein-rich foods, and drink plenty of water. Take a prenatal vitamin containing recommended nutrients, and bring the bottle or a photo of the label to an appointment for review. Do not begin additional vitamins, herbal products, or low-dose aspirin without discussing them with your obstetric clinician.

For many patients, pregnancy-appropriate exercise such as walking, swimming, modified strength training, prenatal yoga, or Pilates can be beneficial. Stay hydrated, avoid overheating, and avoid activities that create a high risk of falling or abdominal injury. Discuss exercise with your provider if you have complications, are carrying multiples, or are beginning a new routine.

Our overview of prenatal care basics also explains common symptoms, fetal movement, signs of labor, and warning signs that should be evaluated promptly.

Women Obstetrics & Gynecology supports expectant parents in Nashville with personalized prenatal guidance from the first positive test through delivery and postpartum recovery.