Prenatal Care

For all your prenatal care needs, Dr. Gandhi and Dr. Arus Zograbyanis are here to help. At their practice, Los Angeles, California area residents can receive their important exams and screenings throughout their entire pregnancy.

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care is offered to pregnant women throughout fetal development and labor. If you are pregnant or think you could be, schedule an exam with Dr. Gandhi. The obstetrician will arrange several visits during the course of your pregnancy.

Why do I need prenatal care?

Prenatal care allows the doctor to monitor the progress of both mother and child during development. These visits can stave off unnecessary risks and allow the obstetrician to identify health issues present early on. The doctor will go over what to expect and how you can provide your unborn child with the best possible start.

How often should I see my doctor during pregnancy?

All patients will receive a schedule of the exams they need. Most experts recommend that women receive an exam:

• Once a month between 4 weeks and 28
• Twice a month between 28 and 36
• Every week from 36 weeks to labor and delivery

Women older than age 35 or those who have a high-risk pregnancy will need to see the obstetrician more often to ensure development and health progress as they should.

What happens during prenatal visits?

During the initial prenatal exam, expect the physician to:

• Inquire about health and family history including prior operations, diseases, or additional pregnancies
• Perform a physical assessment with a pelvic exam and pap smear
• Take blood pressure and measure height and weight
• Acquire a blood and urine sample
• Answer questions
• Obtain an estimate for due date

During the first exam, you ask questions about any concerns related to the pregnancy and development or about any requests you have. Prenatal exams are typically shorter as the end of the pregnancy draws near. The obstetrician will appraise your health and make sure your baby is growing properly. Most prenatal exams will now include:

• A blood pressure check
• Take weight and measure the abdomen
• Monitor the fetal heart rate

When you're pregnant, you also will undergo routine tests such as blood tests to look for anemia, tests which obtain blood type, HIV testing, and more. Depending on age, personal health, family history, ethnic background, and the test results, additional screenings or assessments may be required.