If you're pregnant, it's time to start receiving your prenatal care. The sooner you begin prenatal care, the better it is for you and your baby. In fact, it's recommended that you start your prenatal care around the eighth week of your pregnancy. If this is your first pregnancy, you might not realize how important it is to receive prenatal care. You might have even decided to postpone care until you're further along. But, delaying prenatal can put you and your baby at risk. Here are four ways prenatal care helps you to have a healthy pregnancy. 

Monitor Your Health

Your body goes through many changes during a pregnancy. Those changes begin before you even realize you're pregnant. The sooner you begin prenatal care, the sooner your doctor can start monitoring those changes. Each time you see your doctor, they will check your weight, take your blood pressure, and also test your urine. These tests help your doctor identify potential pregnancy-related health problems. 

Track Baby Development

In addition to monitoring your health during your pregnancy, your doctor will also need to monitor your baby. They can do that during your prenatal visits. Each time you visit your doctor, they listen to your baby's heartbeat. The doctor will also measure your abdomen to track the growth of your baby. Your doctor will use this information to identify potential problems and track your baby's development. 

Obtain Necessary Testing

If you haven't started your prenatal care yet, you need to schedule your first appointment. There are certain medical tests that you'll need to have throughout your pregnancy. The first test you'll need will be a panel of blood tests. Some of those tests include hemoglobin, rubella screening, and Rh factor/blood typing. As your pregnancy progresses, you'll also need ultrasounds, and additional blood tests. Ultrasounds are used to ensure the proper development of your baby. If you wait too long for prenatal care, you can fall behind on those vital tests. 

Get Proper Nutritional Advice

If you're pregnant, it's important that you maintain a nutritious diet. Eating the right foods during your pregnancy will help to ensure good health for you and your baby. Many expectant parents don't know what types of foods they should be eating during your pregnancy. During your prenatal visits, your doctor can provide you with nutritional advice. They can also make sure you have access to prenatal vitamins. 

Don't take chances with your pregnancy. Make sure you receive the prenatal care you need for a healthy pregnancy.

To learn more about prenatal care, contact a local doctor's office near you