Common Questions About Pregnancy: Part 1

Common Questions About Pregnancy: Part 1

If you are thinking about continuing your pregnancy, you probably have questions about what comes next. You might be excited, or you might feel unsure. We at Alpha Women’s Center would love to be a listening ear as you plan for your pregnancy. Below are five of the most common questions women ask during early pregnancy.

How Do I Confirm My Pregnancy?

After an at-home positive pregnancy test, you’ll want to find a center with an ultrasound option, which can help confirm the pregnancy and estimate how far along you are. Alpha Women’s Center offers a free, limited OB ultrasound at our Ankeny location. Call 515-965-7885 (Ankeny), 515-285-5700 (Des Moines), or go to our website, Alpha Women’s Center, to request an appointment.

Should I Start Prenatal Care?

If you have decided to continue your pregnancy, starting prenatal care is an important next step. Your doctor will be able to answer any questions you might have and help you stay healthy during your pregnancy. If you do not already have a trusted doctor, Alpha Women’s Center can recommend one to speak with.

What Does Prenatal Care Look Like?

Prenatal care includes regular checkups with a doctor to keep you and the baby healthy. Some general guidelines include quitting smoking and drinking, since both can be harmful to an unborn child. It is important to get enough folic acid, which can be found in leafy greens (spinach and kale), beans and lentils, citrus fruits, avocado, eggs, and fortified cereals/breads, plus a daily prenatal vitamin, since it’s hard to get the full, recommended amount from food alone.

Do I Need to Take Prenatal Vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins are another important step. You can receive prenatal vitamins from a prescription, but you can also buy them over the counter at your local pharmacy. If you aren’t sure what to look for in a prenatal vitamin, the resource below can help. Prenatal Vitamins | Everything You Need to Know. The vitamins are usually offered in pill form, but some places carry a gummy version. Feel free to choose whichever works best for you.

What Symptoms Should I Watch For?

This is a very important early pregnancy question. During your pregnancy, you should pay attention to any new symptoms you might have. Some warning signs include

• Heavy bleeding.
• Severe cramping in your belly.
• Fainting.
• Dizziness.

If you have any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor or seek emergency services immediately.

Support

You don’t have to go through this alone. Alpha Women’s Center can connect you to nearby groups, parenting classes, baby supplies from our resource closet, and someone who will listen.

We’re here to answer your questions and support you. Call 515-965-7885 (Ankeny), 515-285-5700 (Des Moines), or go to our website to request an appointment. We are here whenever you are ready.

More Questions?

Still have questions? Keep an eye on our blog page for part 2 or reach out to our team directly to speak with a staff member or request an appointment.

Disclaimer

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider with questions about your pregnancy, and see emergency care immediately if you experience any warning signs listed above.

References

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy | ACOG, ACOG, Accessed July 8, 2026.

Prenatal Vitamins | Everything You Need to Know, American Pregnancy Association, Accessed July 8, 2026.

Urgent Maternal Warning Signs and Symptoms, CDC, May 15, 2024.

What is prenatal care and why is it important?, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, US Department of Health and Human Services, Accessed on June 8, 2026.