While it is possible to have a baby without ever visiting a doctor or a prenatal clinic, it is a gamble -- and as with any gamble, you might lose. In this case, your loss would mean harming the miracle that is growing inside of you. A baby whose mom did not get prenatal care is three times more likely to have a low birth weight and five times more likely to die than a baby whose mother did seek care.

Prenatal care is the first step in a lifetime commitment to the health of your baby and yourself. The goal is to recognize potential problems and do everything possible to correct their causes. Today, doctors and nurse practitioners have more medical training available to us than ever before. Yet sometimes, patients wonder what exactly it is that we are doing.

The backbone of your prenatal care is the H and P: History and Physical. This must be constantly updated during the course of your pregnancy. We add to this a series of lab tests that will uncover potential diseases such as anemia, diabetes, genetic abnormalities and ultrasounds to determine the accurate date of the start of the pregnancy and the appropriate growth of the baby.

This information is used to care for mother and baby throughout the pregnancy. It is also used by the physicians who deliver your baby. This information is the primary tool kit for working with pediatricians, nursing staff and other hospital-based specialists to design a care program that will result in the best possible outcome of your pregnancy.

Remember -- everything you ingest affects your child. It is important to tell your doctor what over-the-counter prescriptions or herbal supplements you may be taking. If you smoke or drink, it is imperative that you stop for the duration of your pregnancy and any time you might be breast-feeding. Ask your doctor for help.

Besides the H and P, prenatal education is an essential component to a healthy pregnancy. This includes information about how to take care of yourself and your child. For example, did you know that the mother's good dental hygiene and care are important during a pregnancy? It is also crucial that moms-to-be get the appropriate nutrition and amount of physical activity, both of which help the baby grow strong. The optimal diet is rich with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and calcium. Besides a healthy diet, pregnant women can benefit from a multivitamin or prenatal vitamin with 400 mg of folic acid. And unless your doctor has told you not to, try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day.

These are just a few of the many things you will want to know so you can have a healthy baby. Your doctor can give you the information you will need. There are also classes, books and videos that can assist you. If you remember nothing else from the column, remember this: You only have one chance to make the perfect baby. You should use every possible tool available to help you. Good prenatal care is essential.

Dr. Jack Klausen is an OB/GYN and the chief obstetrics hospitalist at Vista Community Clinic. Visit www.vistacommunityclinic.org or call (760) 631-5000.