It is important to see a doctor or visit a clinic as soon as you suspect you might be pregnant because your baby's body develops rapidly, and all the major organs are formed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Prenatal care includes advice about your pregnancy and sets down a plan of care developed just for you. This plan covers health care visits, exercise, diet, and the special things you should do to assure a healthy baby and a comfortable pregnancy. Even if this is not your first baby, remember that every pregnancy is different. Visit your doctor or clinic early in the pregnancy and always return for your scheduled visits.
Early care is the best way to discover and treat potential problems.
The Health Care Providers Selecting the person or clinic to provide your health care is the first important step. There are many kinds of health professionals who are qualified to care for you during your pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the period after the birth. Specialists who provide mainly pregnancy care are obstetricians, while those who provide mainly female reproductive system care are gynecologists. Perinatologists are obstetricians who specialize in the care of women who may face special problems during pregnancy. Some general practitioners provide obstetric and gynecologic care.