Preconception Health & Pregnancy
Whether you’re trying to conceive or already pregnant, this is an exciting and meaningful time. If you’re trying, small steps like tracking cycles, eating well, managing stress, and taking prenatal vitamins can support a healthy start.
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If you’re pregnant, expect lots of changes—physically and emotionally—as your body grows and nurtures new life. Regular prenatal visits, good nutrition, rest, and asking questions along the way help keep both you and your baby healthy. You’re not alone on this journey, and support is here every step of the way.
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Trying to Conceive
Before trying to conceive, healthy habits can help support fertility and a strong start to pregnancy. Eating balanced meals, staying active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep all play an important role. Taking a daily prenatal vitamin with folic acid, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs, and scheduling a preconception checkup can also help prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
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1st Trimester
This is a time of rapid early development and big changes in your body. A first ultrasound (viability scan) is usually done around 6–8 weeks to confirm the pregnancy, check the heartbeat, and estimate due date. Early blood work and genetic screening—such as testing for Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)—is typically offered around 10–13 weeks. Common symptoms include nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and mood changes.
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2nd Trimester
Often called the “feel-good” trimester, energy usually improves and nausea eases. Around 18–22 weeks, the anatomy ultrasound scan checks your baby’s growth, organs, and development. You may start feeling baby move, and your belly becomes more noticeable. Prenatal visits focus on growth, movement, and your overall well-being.
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3rd Trimester
Your baby grows quickly and prepares for birth. You’ll have more frequent prenatal visits to monitor baby’s position, growth, and heart rate. Testing for gestational diabetes and Group B strep typically occurs during this time. You may notice increased discomfort, swelling, and fatigue as your body prepares for labor. Education on birth, feeding, and postpartum care becomes a key focus.
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Book an appointment today with Dr. Anita Chait