Prenatal Care

Visit your healthcare provider early in pregnancy, during the first 12 weeks.

Prenatal Care

Receiving early and regular prenatal care is a crucial part of maintaining your and your unborn baby’s health throughout pregnancy.  Prenatal care involves medical visits, exams, and tests along with health education and guidance about your pregnancy. During your visits, your healthcare provider will discuss healthy eating and physical activity with you, as well as the tests you may need, potential symptoms, what to expect during labor and delivery, and more.  It is best to start your prenatal care in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, attend all scheduled appointments, and stay informed about your care and test results throughout the process.  Listed below are some important tips to make sure you and your baby get off to a healthy start.

Choose a Prenatal Healthcare Provider

You will visit your prenatal healthcare provider multiple times before giving birth, and the relationship with your provider is crucial. Choose someone who has a good reputation, listens to your questions and concerns, and provides you with the respect and support you need to make informed decisions during your pregnancy and birth.  There are various options for prenatal care providers, including doctors, midwives, and nurse practitioners who specialize in pregnancy care.  

Take time to learn about your pregnancy. Consider taking childbirth, breastfeeding, and other parenting classes offered at your healthcare provider’s office, local hospital, online, or at different community locations. It’s also a good idea to ask about access to doula services to help support you during pregnancy, birth, and after delivery. If you need help finding classes or services, choosing a healthcare provider in Broward County, or have other questions, please call Connect at 954-567-7174.  You can also contact your health insurance using the number on the back of your card to find out about participating healthcare providers and services you can receive.

Choices in Childbirth

Many people have strong opinions and feelings about where and how they’d like to deliver their baby. The choice of where to give birth depends on many factors, including the woman’s and unborn baby’s health, the hospital or other location where her doctor or midwife delivers, health insurance coverage, and more. Remember to talk with your healthcare provider about where you will give birth to make sure you know where to go when it’s time to deliver your baby or if you have any problems and need to get help. Choices for childbirth may include having your baby at a hospital, birth center, or home birth.

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