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Pregnancy Specialist

Interior Women's Health -  - Board Certified OB-GYNS, Midwives & Advanced Nurse Practitioners

Interior Women's Health

Board Certified OB-GYNS, Midwives & Advanced Nurse Practitioners located in Fairbanks, AK

Pregnancy is a life-changing event that brings a lot of joy. However, to keep you and your baby healthy and happy, you need regular, ongoing medical care. Karl Baurick, MD, FACOG, Doris Heilman, MD, FACOG, Kristina Amundson, DNP, CNM, and Tanya Ignacio, CNM, at Interior Women's Health in Fairbanks, Alaska, provides comprehensive pregnancy care in a supportive and comfortable environment. The team develops a partnership with you, allowing you to take an active role in everything related to your pregnancy. For compassionate pregnancy care from an experienced team, contact the office by phone or online today.

Pregnancy Q&A

When should I start pregnancy care?

When you start pregnancy care depends on many factors, including your medical and gynecological history. However, for most women, the team at Interior Women's Health recommends you start pregnancy care eight weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period. Early and ongoing pregnancy care is important for you and your baby. 

What happens during my first pregnancy visit?

Your first pregnancy visit at Interior Women's Health may be the longest and most extensive visit throughout your pregnancy. During this visit, the team:


  • Confirms pregnancy
  • Reviews your medical, family, and gynecological history
  • Reviews your partner’s medical and family history
  • Conducts a physical and pelvic exam
  • Performs a Pap test, urinalysis, and blood test
  • Checks for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Estimates your due date
  • Listens to your baby’s heartbeat


The team may also conduct an ultrasound at your first visit to check your uterus and placement of your placenta. The information gathered during your ultrasound also helps the team more accurately estimate your due date.

After your evaluation, the team spends time talking to you about your pregnancy and what to expect during your nine-month journey. They also provide specific recommendations to help you and your baby stay healthy and well.  

In addition to board-certified OB/GYNs, the team at Interior Women's Health includes certified midwives who offer comprehensive pregnancy for healthy pregnant women. 

How frequently are pregnancy follow-up visits?

The frequency of your pregnancy care follow-up appointments depends on many factors, including how far along you are and if your pregnancy is high risk. In general, you can expect:


  • Monthly visits from week 4 to 28
  • Two visits a month from week 29 to 35
  • Weekly visits from week 36 until birth

If your pregnancy is high risk, the team may schedule more frequent pregnancy care appointments to monitor you and your baby’s health. 

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

The team at Interior Women's Health specializes in the management of both normal and high-risk pregnancies. Your pregnancy may be considered high risk if:


  • You’re 35 or older
  • You’re carrying more than one baby (twins, triplets)
  • You have an underlying health condition (diabetes, hypertension)
  • You develop a pregnancy-related health condition (gestational diabetes)


Your pregnancy is also considered high risk if there are concerns about the growth and development of your baby during your pregnancy. The team at Interior Women's Health works closely with maternal-fetal medicine specialists to ensure you and your baby get the best care possible.


For compassionate pregnancy care from an experienced team that puts your needs above all else, call Interior Women's Health or use the online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.