ASK THE DOCTOR               

Jaime Cardenas, M.D., Obstetrician/Gynecologist, St. Joseph's Mercy Health Center

Why Prenatal Health?

Prenatal care is crucial to the healthy development of your baby and affords you as the mother with the proper nutrients to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Because your body will be going through many different changes and because your baby will be growing throughout the entire nine-month period, it is essential for expectant parents to learn what to anticipate in the months to come. This ensures the needs of the mother and the baby are met.


When should prenatal health begin?

Prenatal health should really begin before you ever become pregnant. You should be getting a sufficient supply of folic acid, which can prevent certain birth defects. If you smoke or drink alcohol, it is best for your health and definitely that of your baby's health to quit. Cutting back on caffeine and getting enough rest and exercise are also healthy habits to form before getting pregnant.


What is the most important stage in a baby's development?

The first three months of pregnancy is when most of the baby's important organs are being formed. It is very important to see your doctor on a regular basis during this trimester, and he will perform several tests to check your health and the health of your baby. This can also be an uncomfortable time for you as you may experience nausea or morning sickness, fatigue, backaches and mood swings.


What should expectant mothers anticipate during the second trimester?

This is the stage where you may see the most noticeable changes in your body. This is also the time when you will be getting some much-needed relief from the morning sickness and fatigue experienced in the first three months. Your stomach will begin to expand as the baby grows, and you will begin to feel the baby move during this trimester as well. Visits with your doctor are necessary during this time because he will monitor your baby's development and determine his or her age. You will also hear your baby's heart beat for the first time.


What are some tips for expectant parents during the last trimester?

Mothers should realize that the baby is still developing during the last three months of pregnancy, but now has less room to grow. Because the baby is pushing on your organs, this may cause you to make frequent trips to the bathroom or cause you trouble in breathing.

This is the time you and your doctor decide whether you will be having your baby naturally or by a Cesarean section. Deciding whether or not you will breastfeed your baby should be done during this trimester.