Prenatal care

Definition

Prenatal care involves medical and nutritional support provided to a pregnant woman to ensure the health of both mother and baby. It includes regular check-ups, dietary guidance, and screenings to prevent complications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adequate prenatal care can significantly reduce the risk of neurological disorders in newborns.
2. Folic acid intake during pregnancy is crucial for preventing neural tube defects.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for fetal brain development.
4. Regular prenatal check-ups help monitor the baby's growth and can detect early signs of neurological issues.
5. Iron deficiency during pregnancy can result in impaired cognitive development in infants.

Review Questions

• Why is folic acid important during pregnancy?
• How does iron deficiency affect fetal neurological development?
• What role do Omega-3 fatty acids play in prenatal care?

Related terms

Neural Tube Defects:

Birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur during embryonic development.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Essential fats found in foods like fish that are crucial for brain health.

Folic Acid:

A type of B vitamin that helps prevent major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine.