Pre-Natal, Post Delivery, Child Visits

Prenatal Medical Care The goal of prenatal care is not only to provide the best care for the pregnant woman and the unborn child but also to prepare the mother-to-be for the delivery of a healthy baby. 

During prenatal visits, tests are performed on both the mother and the baby to assess any potential risks, treat any maternal or fetal complications, and keep an eye on the growth and development of the fetus. In addition, counseling and guidance are provided regarding various aspects of pregnancy, including weight gain, exercise, nutrition, and overall health. 

• A typical prenatal visit may include any or all of the following: 
• Weight measurement 
• Blood pressure measurement 
• Measurement of the uterus to check for proper growth of the fetus 
• Physical exam of the mother to identify problems or discomforts, like swelling of the hands and feet 
• Urine test to measure sugar and protein levels. This can indicate diabetes or preeclampsia (a condition characterized by high blood pressure, proteinuria, and swelling due to fluid retention). However, swelling does not need to be present to make the diagnosis. And having swelling does not always mean a woman has pre-eclampsia. 
• Fetal heart rate measurement (usually beginning in the 10th to 12th week of pregnancy) 
• Prenatal screening tests like blood tests to check for anemia. 

Labor and Delivery 

During the last months, your office visits will include discussions about labor and delivery. Since Goodland Regional Medical Center is not currently providing labor and delivery services, your healthcare provider will discuss your options for establishing care at an alternate facility where you will deliver. Establishing this care is essential for the continuity of care of both you and your little one. 

Post-Delivery Care for Mom 

Postpartum care is an ongoing process after your delivery. Our healthcare providers will ask you to follow up with us within three weeks after delivery and continue to receive follow-up care as needed, including a comprehensive checkup/evaluation by 12 weeks postpartum. The goal is to spot possible problems early since women have a higher risk of serious complications during the weeks after giving birth than at any other time during pregnancy. 

Well Child Visits 

Well-child visits and recommended vaccinations are essential and help ensure children stay healthy. Children who are not protected by vaccines are more likely to get diseases like measles and whooping cough. These diseases are extremely contagious and can be very serious, especially for babies and young children. These diseases have been outbreaks in recent years, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. Well-child visits are essential for many reasons, including: 

• Tracking growth and developmental milestones 
• Discussing any concerns about your child’s health 
• Getting scheduled vaccinations to prevent measles, whooping cough (pertussis), and other serious diseases.