Pregnancy Information: Prenatal Vitamins, Screening Tests, Emergency Doctor Visits

Prenatal Vitamin & Minerals

Prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements have proven beneficial to both the developing fetus and expectant mother in most cases. Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, D and E; Minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, cobalt and folic acid comprise basic prenatal vitamins. A minimum daily dose of four hundred micrograms of folic acid is recommended to prevent neural tube defects in the trimester.

Iron, calcium and other essential nutrients are also included. Some women experience difficulty in swallowing the prenatal vitamins and those suffering from morning sickness may bring it out. So try experimenting with different brands, different forms and flavors.

Prenatal Vitamins and Screening Tests

You will have to provide urine sample, weigh yourself and get your blood pressure recorded at every appointment. Other diagnostic and screening tests may also be conducted throughout pregnancy.

For your first prenatal visit you may have to wear gown. A thorough physical examination like checking your heart beat, examining feet for swelling and a quick belly check up will be done. Maintain a good rapport with all the doctors staff because it will make visits more pleasant and they may help you get through an unexpected appointment during tight schedules.

When to call the Doctor – Day or Night?

First of all become familiar with the signs of preterm labor.

Some women hesitate in calling the doctor at odd hours thinking they are exhibiting oversensitive behavior. If things aren’t serious and can wait then call the doctor at the appropriate time. But if there is an emergency or something very urgent or if you just do not feel alright, then your doctor will be happy to help you.

At your first appointment you maybe told how patient’s phone calls are handled. The receptionist receives your calls; she prioritizes the calls and has a nurse, midwife and physician who call back to you in order of urgency. But if you want to talk to the doctor then you will have to wait a little longer.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience –

• Abdominal cramping and/or pain.
• Severe and forceful vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• Painful urination.
• Blood or fluid is leaking from the vagina.
• Excessive swelling on the face and/or body.
• High fever above A hundred and four degrees Fahrenheit.
• Severe headache.
• Chills.
• Impaired vision with spots or blurring.
• Foul smelling, green or yellow abnormal discharge from the vagina.

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