Why Regular Check ups Matter for You and Your Baby

The foundation of a healthy pregnancy is routine prenatal care which ensures that the mother and unborn child receive the attention and observation they require during this life-changing experience. A successful pregnancy depends on numerous factors such as understanding the importance of prenatal care, following a prenatal health check-up schedule, identifying the symptoms of a healthy baby in the third trimester and knowing which positions to avoid in the third trimester.

Importance of prenatal care

Prenatal care involves medical appointments that any pregnant woman must undergo during pregnancy. This will help to check her health and ensure her baby’s health. Regular and early prenatal care can detect potential health problems and provide essential screenings and guidance on nutrition and lifestyle. Maintaining regular prenatal visits can help reduce the chances of complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. On the other hand, not receiving prenatal care on time may cause a high risk of developing disorders such as intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia.

Prenatal Health Check-Up schedule

A properly created prenatal health check-up schedule is essential for early detection and management of potential issues. The general guideline includes:

• First trimester (weeks 1-12) -In this trimester, the monthly visits help to check the initial health, confirm pregnancy and create a care plan according to the condition.
• Second trimester (weeks 13-26) – In the second trimester, the monthly visits continue, with emphasis on tracking foetal development and maternal health.
• Third trimester (27- 40) – Initial visits are every two or four weeks, progressing to weekly visits from week 36 until the time of delivery.

This schedule can be modified as the pregnancy progresses.

Symptoms of a healthy baby in the pregnancy third trimester

There are some symptoms of a healthy baby in the pregnancy’s third trimester that indicate a baby’s health:

• Normal Movement- Normal foetal movements also called ‘kick counts’ are a positive sign. Doctors may suggest tracking these movements to ensure your baby’s healthy activity.
• Consistent Growth: Abdominal measurements of the mother, which are called fundal height are used to measure the baby’s growth pattern.
• Normal Heartbeat- A strong and consistent foetal heartbeat, usually monitored during prenatal visits, is a sign of good health of the baby.

In case, there is a decrease in foetal movement or other concerning symptoms, pregnant women should immediately consult their doctors.​ 

Positions to Avoid During the Third Trimester

As pregnancy progresses, some positions become uncomfortable and even risky:

• Lying flat on the back- This position can compress large blood vessels, causing low blood flow and dizziness.
• Standing for a long duration- Standing for a longer duration can cause swelling and aching. Try taking frequent breaks and raising your feet whenever feasible.
• Deep squatting and bending: These poses can strain the back and pelvis, regions that are highly stressed during the third trimester

Seeking professional advice for safe and comfortable positions can lead

Seeking advice from a healthcare provider regarding safe and comfortable positions can ease discomfort and ensure well-being at this time.

Looking for healthy pregnancy nutrition with a prenatal pill- Trimacare  

Trimacare Prenatal Tablets provide complete care with more than 20 vital micronutrients in a single tablet, and all your nutritional requirements are fully met at your convenience. These prenatal multivitamins contain essential nutrients like iron, folate, calcium, vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B6. Trimacare prenatal multivitamins have been specifically formulated for pregnant women and serve trimester-specific care for ensuring complete baby development and mother care.

Trimacare pregnancy supplement is based on a three-stage prenatal nutrition course, designed by specialists as per WHO and ICMR guidelines to provide holistic care during pregnancy.

Conclusion-

Consistent prenatal check-ups are necessary to monitor and ensure the mother’s and baby’s health. By knowing and applying the significance of prenatal care, adhering to a suggested prenatal health check-up schedule, being aware of the signs of a healthy baby in the third trimester, and noting positions to avoid during the third trimester, pregnant women can better manage their pregnancy with confidence and self-assurance.

FAQs

1. What do I do if I have unusual symptoms while pregnant?

Ans- If you notice symptoms like severe pain in the abdomen, heavy bleeding, severe headaches, or major changes in foetal movement, call your healthcare provider right away. Early attention may be critical to your and your baby’s health.

2. Is there any sitting position to be avoided during the third trimester?

Ans- Yes, it is best to avoid sitting in a position with your hips below your knees because it can minimize room for your expanding baby and cause more pain. Sitting with your hips above your knees can alleviate pressure and encourage good posture.

3. How does the prenatal health check-up schedule differ in high-risk pregnancies?

Ans- In high-risk pregnancies, doctors may suggest more frequent visits than the normal prenatal health check-up schedule. The frequency depends on the exact risk factors present and is adjusted to maintain both maternal and foetal health.