Healthlinks: Pediatric Birth Defects

Practis Blog

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Should I Test for Birth Defects?

Deciding whether to test for birth defects when you’re pregnant can be a hard choice. Some parents want to know ahead of time so they can be prepared and make choices, while others would rather wait and see. A doctor or genetic counselor can help you decide which tests are right for you based on your age, family history, beliefs, and values. In the end, though, the choice is yours. Learn more about the types of tests you might be offered and the pros and cons of each.

[Create a hyperlink to Birth Defects Testing on your website. DOCHWID=uf6260]

Healthy Pregnancies: Give Your Baby a Head Start

Pregnancy can be both exciting and scary, especially if it’s your first child. But there are things you can start doing today to keep your baby healthy and make your pregnancy easier. The first step is to schedule a visit with your doctor, if you haven’t already. There will be a lot more of these visits as your baby’s birthday gets closer, but it’s important to go to all of them. Your doctor will check the baby’s health (and yours), and you can ask questions. In the meantime, avoid alcohol and nicotine, get plenty of rest, and eat a balanced diet. Learn more about how to care for yourself and your baby during pregnancy.

[Create a hyperlink to Pregnancy on your website. DOCHWID=hw197814]

Newly Pregnant? Now Is the Time to Visit Your Doctor

Going to the doctor as soon as you find out you’re pregnant might feel silly or too early—after all, you’re not even showing yet! But this first visit is important—it helps you and your doctor plan the best possible care for the next few months. You’ll be asked a lot of questions about your medical history and your lifestyle. The doctor will also test your urine and blood. If you think you might be pregnant, or just found out that you are, make an appointment with your doctor or a clinic. Starting now can help keep you and your baby healthy.

[Create a hyperlink to Pregnancy: First Prenatal Visit on your website. DOCHWID=aa87847]

The Lowdown on Ultrasounds

If you’re pregnant, your doctor may schedule at least one ultrasound (also called a sonogram). This shows the baby on a TV screen, and you can usually take pictures or a video home with you. Ultrasounds don’t hurt, and they only take a few minutes. Depending on when it’s done, an ultrasound can check for birth defects, find out if you’re having more than one baby, figure out how far along your pregnancy is, and (if the baby is in the right position) show the sex. Learn more about whether an ultrasound is right for you.

[Create a hyperlink to Fetal Ultrasound on your website. DOCHWID=hw4693]

Social media teasers

  • To test or not to test? Learn the pros and cons of birth defect testing during pregnancy so you can make the best choice for your family.
    [Create a shortened URL to Birth Defects Testing on your website. DOCHWID=uf6260]
  • Eat right, avoid alcohol and nicotine, and get plenty of rest—these are just three ways to give your unborn baby a head start and keep yourself healthy during pregnancy.
    [Create a shortened URL to Pregnancy on your website. DOCHWID=hw197814]
  • Just found out you’re pregnant? Or think you might be? Don’t wait—schedule a doctor’s visit today.
    [Create a shortened URL to Pregnancy: First Prenatal Visit on your website. DOCHWID=aa87847]
  • Ultrasounds can detect some birth defects, figure out how far along your pregnancy is, and even tell if you’re having twins. Learn why your doctor has scheduled this test.
    [Create a shortened URL to Fetal Ultrasound on your website. DOCHWID=hw4693]
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