Knox County Tennessee

Early prenatal care now for a Stronger Baby later

Having a healthy pregnancy is one of the best ways to promote a healthy birth. Prenatal care is the medical care you receive while you are pregnant to make sure you and your baby are both in good health. While not all pregnancy complications can be prevented, we know that women can increase their chances of having a healthy baby by managing health conditions and detecting problems early. Infant mortality is higher for infants born with inadequate prenatal care, and in 2016, only 55% of women in Knox County received adequate prenatal care. Prenatal care should begin in the first trimester of your pregnancy and continue with regular visits throughout your pregnancy as recommended by your physician.

baby

When should I have my first prenatal care visit?

As soon as you suspect you’re pregnant, you should schedule your first prenatal appointment. 


Do I need to go to every prenatal appointment?

Yes. Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby healthy. Doctors can spot health problems early when they see mothers regularly. Early treatment can cure many problems and prevent others. Doctors can also talk to pregnant women about the things they can do to give their unborn babies a healthy start to life.  


What happens at a prenatal visit?

During the first prenatal visit, you can expect your doctor to:

  • Ask about your health history including diseases, operations or prior pregnancies;
  • Ask about your family's health history;
  • Do a complete physical exam, including a pelvic exam and Pap test;
  • Take your blood and urine for lab work;
  • Check your blood pressure, height and weight;
  • Calculate your due date; and
  • Answer your questions.

At the first visit, you should ask questions and discuss any issues related to your pregnancy. Find out all you can about how to stay healthy.

Later prenatal visits will probably be shorter. Your doctor will check on your health and make sure the baby is growing as expected. Most prenatal visits will include:

  • Checking your blood pressure
  • Measuring your weight gain
  • Measuring your abdomen to check your baby's growth (once you begin to show)
  • Checking the baby's heart rate

While you're pregnant, you also will have some routine tests. Some tests are suggested for all women, such as blood work to check for anemia, your blood type, HIV and other factors. Other tests might be offered based on your age, personal or family health history, your ethnic background, or the results of routine tests you have had.


What should I ask my doctor about?

If you have had a preterm baby in the past, let your doctor know right away. It is also important that you discuss any sexually transmitted infections, chronic conditions (such as high blood pressure or diabetes), and habits such as smoking, drinking or drug use. All of these factors can increase the chances of preterm birth and other poor birth outcomes – but your doctor can help you decrease your risk.

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Knox County Tennessee - Health Department

Main Clinic
140 Dameron Ave,
Knoxville, TN 37917
865-215-5000

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Please Note:

On the first Wednesday of every month, all KCHD offices and clinics are closed in the morning for staff in-service. On these days, the main location (140 Dameron Ave.) will open at 11 a.m. and the West Clinic (1028 Old Cedar Bluff) will open at 11:30 a.m.
Clinics will also open at 10 a.m. (Main location), and 10:30 a.m. (West Clinic) on the following Wednesdays:
  • October 18, 2023
  • January 17, 2024
  • April 17,2024
  • July 17, 2024

*All other offices will open at 8 a.m.

Infant and childhood immunizations as well as adult vaccines by appointment ONLY. Please call 865-215-5950.

1028 Old Cedar Bluff
Knoxville, TN 37923
865-215-5950

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Clinics will also open at 10 a.m. (Main location), and 10:30 a.m. (West Clinic) on the following Wednesdays:
  • January 18
  • April 19
  • July 19
  • September 20

Map Of All Clinics
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