Prenatal care (also known as antenatal care) refers to the services offered to a woman during pregnancy. The main aim of prenatal care is to monitor the mother and child for any potential health risks so that they can be treated before they affect the pregnancy or birth. For example, conditions like gestational diabetes and hypertension will require a change in the mother’s diet and  exercise routine to minimize risk. Prenatal care ensures that the mother maintains a healthy lifestyle so that neither the mother nor the child is harmed. To that end, doctors may make several recommendations that will keep the mother and baby safe, such as avoiding alcohol and tobacco. Prenatal exams also help reveal the sex of the baby, if the parents want to know. Prenatal checkups should continue until the mother gives birth.