Moving Toward Motherhood

Pregnant woman with sitting on a sofa with her hands on her belly

Prenatal care is important to protect you and baby's health and well- being. During these appointments with a doctor or midwife, your health care provider will see if your baby is growing properly and make sure you are as healthy as possible and prepare for your journey to "Mom"

During your first 28 weeks of pregnancy, you will get a prenatal checkup once a month.
From weeks 28 to 36, you will see your provider twice a month.
In weeks 36 to birth, you will see your provider every week.

Your doctor or midwife is your source for information about a healthy pregnancy. In addition to talking with you about nutrition, screenings you need and ways to prepare for delivery, your health care provider can provide details about community services that might benefit you.

Taking care of your teeth

Pregnancy may cause you to crave new, unhealthy foods. Morning sickness may expose your teeth to more acid. Brushing your teeth may make you gag. Your gums may become more sensitive.

If these changes cause you to cut back on brushing and flossing, you may develop cavities, gingivitis or other infection.

"Poor oral health during pregnancy can lead to poor health outcomes for mother and baby," said Tonya K. Fuqua, DDS, director of Child Oral Health at Cook Children's Center for Community Health. "Fortunately, dental treatment is safe and helpful throughout pregnancy."

To maintain good oral health during pregnancy, Dr. Fuqua recommends that you:

Brush twice and floss once daily.
Use a small toothbrush and flavorless toothpaste if you have a hard time brushing.
Limit sugary foods and drinks in your diet.
Visit your dentist every three months while pregnant or breastfeeding.

New mom essentials

Many resources are available to supplement care offered by your primary provider during pregnancy and after delivery. There are also resources for new moms who made need extra financial support. A few to consider include:

Breastfeeding resources. Whether learning to breastfeed or wondering about your rights as a breastfeeding, working mother, educational resources are available at Cook Children's and beyond.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC). WIC ensures you have free milk, healthy food and formula during and after pregnancy.
Pregnancy Medicaid. If eligible, you can enroll in pregnancy Medicaid, an insurance-like program that covers your pregnancy- related health care before and after the baby is born.

Eager to learn more? Find helpful information and resources at Cook Children's Preparing for Parenthood website.