Prematurity Awareness Month: Why Early Prenatal Care Matters

About 1 in 10 babies in the United States (10.4%) are born prematurely, before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Early and regular prenatal care helps your provider identify health concerns, monitor your baby's growth, and support a healthy pregnancy.

At Obria Medical Clinic, we believe every mother deserves caring support and clear answers. Our team offers prenatal care appointments and early pregnancy ultrasounds to help you understand your health and your baby's development.

What Is Prematurity Awareness Month?

Each November, Prematurity Awareness Month brings attention to the challenges of premature birth and highlights the role prenatal care plays in supporting the health of mothers and babies.

A full pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. During the final weeks, your baby's brain, lungs, and other organs continue growing. Babies born too early may have trouble breathing, feeding, or staying warm. Some may need extra time in the hospital.

Not all premature births can be prevented, but early and regular prenatal care can help you and your baby get the care you need.

Why Is Early Prenatal Care Important?

Prenatal care is the medical care you receive while pregnant. During these visits, your provider checks your health and monitors your baby’s growth.

At Obria Medical Clinic, our prenatal care appointments include health checks, screenings, and ongoing support. During these visits, we may check your blood pressure, review your health history, and look for signs of health problems.

Some health conditions, such as high blood pressure, may raise the risk of premature birth. Finding and treating these concerns early can help protect your health and your baby's health.

Even if you feel fine, regular prenatal visits are important. They give you time to ask questions, learn what to expect, and get help when you need it.

How Can an Early Pregnancy Ultrasound Help?

An early pregnancy ultrasound can give you important information about your pregnancy.

During an ultrasound, a trained medical professional uses a small device called a transducer to send sound waves into your body. These sound waves create images on a screen, allowing your provider to learn more about your pregnancy.

Ultrasounds do not use radiation. They are a common way to learn more about a pregnancy.

At Obria Medical Clinic, our early pregnancy ultrasound services may help:

• Confirm your pregnancy and check that it is located in the uterus.
• Estimate how far along you are and help determine your due date.
• Check for a fetal heartbeat when the pregnancy is far enough along.
• Check for twins or multiples and look for signs of early development.
• Find concerns that may need more tests or follow-up care.

An early ultrasound cannot predict or prevent premature birth, but knowing how far along you are helps your provider plan your care and track your baby's growth as your pregnancy continues.

What Can Increase the Risk of Premature Birth?

Some women have a higher risk of giving birth early. This may include women who have had a premature birth before, are carrying twins, or have certain health problems.

Sometimes, premature birth happens without a clear cause.

You can take steps to support a healthy pregnancy. Start prenatal care early, attend your scheduled visits, avoid smoking and alcohol, and talk with your provider about any health concerns.

Remember, even with good care, some babies are born early. Your care team can help you understand your risks and make a plan for your needs.

What Are the Warning Signs of Preterm Labor?

Preterm labor happens when your body starts getting ready to give birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Signs may include:

• Regular cramps or tightening in your belly.
• A dull ache in your lower back that does not go away.
• Pressure in your lower belly.
• A change in vaginal discharge.
• Fluid leaking from your vagina.

If you notice these signs before 37 weeks, call your pregnancy care provider right away or go to the hospital. Do not wait for your next prenatal visit.

Prematurity Awareness Month FAQs

What is considered a premature birth?

A premature birth happens when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These babies may need extra medical care because their bodies are still growing.

Can prenatal care prevent premature birth?

Prenatal care cannot prevent every premature birth. However, regular visits can help your provider find health concerns early and take steps to manage them.

When should I start prenatal care?

Schedule your first prenatal visit as soon as you know or think you are pregnant. Early care gives your provider more time to check your health, answer questions, and help you plan for your pregnancy.

Why is an early ultrasound important?

An early ultrasound helps your provider confirm your pregnancy, estimate your due date, and check your baby’s early development. It may also find concerns that need more care.

Can an ultrasound tell if my baby will be born early?

No. An early ultrasound cannot tell for sure if your baby will be born prematurely. Your provider may suggest other tests later in pregnancy if you have certain risk factors or health concerns.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthy Pregnancy

Prematurity Awareness Month reminds us that caring for your baby starts during pregnancy. Early care can help you learn more about your health and prepare for the months ahead.

At Obria Medical Clinic, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through your pregnancy. Our team will support your pregnancy with early ultrasound services, prenatal care, and guidance tailored to your needs.

Schedule Your Pregnancy Appointment today at our Ames or Fort Dodge location