MyFertilityGuide

Reproductive health is an essential aspect of pregnancy from before conception until after the birth. Creating a six to eight pound baby from .1 millimeter zygote takes nutrients and energy. Starting on a regimen of prenatal vitamins while trying to conceive and continuing them after the baby is born will help you to attain a balance of nutrients so that the baby will not deprive you of what you need. Most importantly, begin prenatal care as soon as you have a positive home pregnancy test or before if you have issues with infertility.

First Trimester Reproductive Health

As early as possible in the first trimester, it is essential for the mother-to-be to see a health professional. Whether this is a midwife, OB-GYN, or family doctor, it is essential that you get a checkup to:

• Establish baseline data for the rest of your pregnancy
• Get blood tests to rule out disorders, diseases and other risk factors
• Schedule an ultrasound
• Have questions answered
• Establish a treatment plan for the rest of the pregnancy

Your first ultrasound will help establish the gestational age of the baby or the exact conception date which will, in turn, help determine an estimated due date. You will most likely schedule a return visit four to six weeks later.

Second Trimester Reproductive Health

During the second trimester of your pregnancy, the focus of each appointment will be the progressive growth of the baby. A watchful is eye is kept on your health as well. Your weight and blood sugar are closely monitored as is the fundal height (i.e. the distance from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus) to make sure that the baby is at a healthy weight. You may get to hear the baby’s heartbeat during a second trimester visit or determine the sex of the child during a second ultrasound.

Third Trimester Reproductive Health

The third trimester is focused on the birth event: your preparation and the baby’s. You may visit the doctor once every two weeks starting in the eighth month and every week after the 36th week. Your weight and blood pressure will continue to be checked as well as signs of gestational diabetes, anemia or Group B strep. If you have vaginal herpes or a blood disease, then increased watchfulness for outbreaks will also be a part of each checkup. The progression of dilation and the baby’s position will be under surveillance as well.

Throughout your pregnancy, continue to eat well and take prenatal vitamins, voicing any and all concerns to your healthcare professional as your pregnancy progresses.