Comprehensive prenatal care begins before conception. If you are considering pregnancy Dr. Vassiliou recommends that you make an appointment with your family physician to discuss a number of different health areas. Supplementation folic acid should be started to prevent anemia and birth defects. Your Pap test should be up to date. 

 

 

One goal of prenatal care is identification of women at increased risk of medical complications, pregnancy complications, or fetal abnormalities. This is achieved by your physician taking a comprehensive social, medical, obstetrical, and family history; establishing an accurate estimated date of delivery; and appropriate laboratory testing. If risks are identified it is best to plan ahead of pregnancy and referral to an obstetrician to accomplish this is most appropriate.