Prenatal care can seem intimidating when you first discover that you are pregnant. Testing, vitamins, ultrasounds, and monthly appointments can all be overwhelming. Does any of it matter?
Learn more about why prenatal care is essential and how you can access free prenatal care through Missouri’s alternatives to abortion program.
What Is Prenatal Care?
In its simplest terms, prenatal care is caring for your baby and yourself during pregnancy. Prenatal care involves taking vitamins and following recommended eating and exercise plans so you and your baby stay as healthy as possible during your pregnancy. Prenatal care also includes diagnostics like testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that require treatment before you deliver your baby and ultrasounds to ensure the pregnancy is developing as expected.
Prenatal appointments are an important time as a mother when you learn what you can expect, report any symptoms that might concern you, and diagnose any challenges during your pregnancy.
Why Is Prenatal Care Important?
Prenatal care is the best way for you to start caring for your baby before they are even born. Routine preventative care during pregnancy helps your baby get the best start possible.
Prenatal care also allows your medical team to discover and treat issues if they develop within your pregnancy. Discovering challenges in pregnancy early on can mean better treatment results for your baby.
How Can I Find Prenatal Care?
If you are concerned about the cost of prenatal care, we are here to help. The Missouri Alternatives to Abortion program assists by directing women to local providers that offer free care during pregnancy and up to their child’s first birthday. Resources through this program include:
- Prenatal care
- Ultrasound services
- Medical and mental health care
- Many more services
To learn more about the Alternatives to Abortion Program, use the location search to find a list of providers near you.
