More Than Just A Belly
We know you love your care provider. Your OB or midwife takes great care of you and your baby throughout your pregnancy. It’s easy to forget though, that you are more than just a pregnant belly. You need to see more health care providers than just your obstetrical team. Prior to conception, during your pregnancy, and postpartum, here are key health care providers you should be seeing.
Pre-conception
Your General Practitioner
It’s always a good idea to check in with your family doctor before you become pregnant. They can do things like check titres for immunity to measles, make sure your thyroid is working properly, confirm that any medications you are on are safe for pregnancy, and confirm that you are healthy overall.
During your pregnancy
Your Dentist
There are plenty of old wives tales that say seeing a dentist during your pregnancy is unsafe, however, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Periodontal disease has actually been linked to premature labour, so seeing your dentist for regular cleanings is important for a healthy pregnancy. If you go later in your pregnancy when your belly is a bit bigger, just make sure you bring a small cushion to put under one hip.
An RMT
Pregnancy can be tough on your body! Your belly causes a shifting centre of gravity, which can cause aches and pains. An RMT who is specifically trained in prenatal massage will be able to help you feel your best throughout your pregnancy. All RMT’s will use special pillows and cushions to support your growing belly.
A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist
Seeing a PFP isn’t just for postpartum (although you should see one then too!). Pelvic Floor physiotherapy during pregnancy can help with symptoms of incontinence, pain, and difficulties walking during pregnancy. They can also help you prepare for labour.
Postpartum
Your Optometrist
Did you know that pregnancy and breastfeeding can change your eyesight? Some women experience vision changes during pregnancy and it’s important to have it checked out. Wearing an incorrect prescription can cause headaches, dizziness or disorientation.
Your General Practitioner
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can do lots of things to your body. If you don’t feel like you are “bouncing back” after a few months, it might be time to get your thyroid, iron, and B12 levels checked. You should also consult your GP if you are experiencing any signs of a postpartum mood disorder.
An IBCLC
If you would like to breastfeed and you are having difficulty, it is important to get the right help quickly. The longer problems persist for, the worse they will get. We recommend seeing an IBCLC as soon as you think there are concerns such as weight gain, sore breasts, or cracked nipples.
Image from Frank de Kleine under CC licensing.