Although not all pregnancies can be planned, all pregnancies can proceed with optimal outcomes when proper prenatal care is available and used. Those who can should see a doctor prior to considering parenthood. Tests for various congenital diseases or diseases that might impact the gestational period can help properly plan for a healthy pregnancy. Moreover, prenatal care can ensure that the right nutrients and lifestyle factors are in place for a trouble-free pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018) suggest supplementation with folic acid and cessation of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy to reduce the possibilities of complications or damage to the fetus. The most important aspects of prenatal care include lifestyle and prenatal coaching. However, prenatal care should be divided into pre-planning (preconception care) and actual prenatal care (care offered to mother and fetus subsequent to pregnancy). Checkups are the cornerstone of prenatal and preconception care. A woman who receives regular checkups may already be aware of congenital issues or lifestyle concerns that may have a bearing on the progression of the pregnancy. Women who do not receive regular checkups should do so, in order to be aware of issues like blood pressure, blood sugar, immunization, nutrition, and body...

These are all factors that will have a bearing on the health of the mother and baby, both. Proper prenatal care also helps the mother be aware of risk factors. Those risk factors may be related to medical tests and genetic issues, but may also be related to lifestyle choices. Prenatal care ensures optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. Prenatal care needs to be considered in terms of political, social, and economic factors.
There are two governing theories of prenatal care: the “parasite theory” and the “maternal instinct theory” (“Maternal Nutrition and the Outcome of Pregnancy,” n.d.). Both of these have been proven false and are not based on evidence, and yet folklore and superstition continue to govern prenatal beliefs and behaviors (“Maternal Nutrition and the Outcome of Pregnancy,” n.d.). The healthcare worker plays an important role in dispelling these myths in a sensitive and culturally appropriate way, helping to educate expectant parents about things like diet and lifestyle choices and how those choices directly impact the health of the fetus and future baby. Prenatal care involves nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors, in addition to regular medical checkups. Most…