Preconception care and prenatal care while different are both very important factors in the health of a woman and her unborn child.
Preconception care consists of the healthcare you receive before conceiving. During this time, your doctor will assess your health to determine if there are conditions that can affect your future pregnancy. Potential risks may be reduced or eliminated by applying interventions such as medication or lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes that are encouraged may include eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, taking supplements that contain folic acid, receiving pertinent vaccinations, getting mentally healthy, quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol consumption.
There are many benefits associated with preconception care, they include:
- Reducing infant and maternal mortality
- Reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy
- Preventing certain birth defects
Most doctors recommend receiving preconception care three to six months before the time you intend to conceive.
Prenatal care is healthcare you receive while you are pregnant. It is important because it helps improves your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. Your visits with your doctor may involve physical exams, imaging tests, blood tests or screening tests to detect fetal abnormalities. It is recommended that you ask your physician lots of questions and express your concerns during these visits. Your physician will serve as a guide and source of support as your body changes.
Women who receive regular prenatal care may receive benefits that include:
- Reducing the risk of pregnancy complications
- Managing preexisting medical conditions such as high blood pressure which can affect pregnancy
- Receiving accurate nutritional information
- Ensuring that medications being taken are safe
- Physician monitoring of the baby’s development
- Decreasing the possibility of preterm labor
Prenatal care is essential in promoting the best possible outcomes for mother and child. The sooner you receive care the better.
To receive information about preconception or prenatal care at Flushing Hospital Medical Center or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, please call 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.