Prenatal Care

Prenatal care supports healthier pregnancies. At MAA Women’s Health in Cumming, Georgia, experienced provider Padmavathi Pagadala, MD, offers regular medical check-ups, screenings, education, and the support you and your baby need. Whether you’re planning a pregnancy or already expecting, understanding prenatal care can help ensure the best outcomes for you and your child. To get started, call the office today or book an appointment online.

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care is specialized medical care while you’re pregnant. It includes a series of scheduled visits that commence early in your pregnancy and continue through delivery.

These visits allow Dr. Pagadala to monitor your progress, detect potential complications, provide guidance on lifestyle and nutrition, and prepare you for labor and childbirth.

What are the benefits of prenatal care?

Prenatal care offers numerous benefits for you and your baby, including:

• Detecting problems early
• Check-ups to ensure proper growth and development
• Nutritional guidance support
• Reduced risk of complications
• Educational support that meets your needs

It can also include mental health screening so you can identify anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges and connect with vital resources.

What happens during prenatal care appointments?

Your prenatal visits typically follow this schedule:

• Weeks 4-28: Monthly visits
• Weeks 28-36: Twice-a-month visits
• Weeks 36-41: Weekly visits

A high-risk pregnancy may require more frequent appointments.

For your first visit, Dr. Pagadala will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order initial blood and urine tests. She’ll check your blood pressure, weight, and urine at each visit, as well as monitor your baby’s heartbeat.

Your care plan includes important screenings and tests, such as:

• Blood tests for anemia, blood type, and infections
• Ultrasounds
• Glucose screening for gestational diabetes

You’ll have time to ask questions and receive advice on topics such as diet, exercise, symptoms, birthing plans, and postpartum care.

How can I practice good prenatal care?

When you learn you’re pregnant, begin prenatal care immediately. Even better, start with preconception care if you’re planning a pregnancy.

Eat a healthy diet and take prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, iron, and calcium. These essential nutrients support fetal development and reduce the risk of congenital disabilities.

Staying active helps with circulation, reduces stress, and prepares your body for childbirth. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are generally safe, but talk to Dr. Pagadala about her recommendations for you.

Make sure to attend all your appointments, since consistent monitoring helps catch issues early and gives you the best chance at a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Prenatal care is one of the best steps you can take for a healthy pregnancy. Schedule your visit by calling the office or booking online today.