Your first prenatal visit is pretty exciting! The pregnancy has been confirmed, you’re a few weeks along, and now you’re ready to dive right into everything pregnancy-related. However, your first prenatal appointment needs to happen. To find out what to expect, how to prepare, and what issues to discuss with your OBGYN, keep reading.
What happens in your first appointment with the doctor?
During your first appointment, your OBGYN will want to get a good understanding of how you’ve been feeling, how many weeks pregnant you may be (your doctor can always help confirm with a test), what your medical and obstetric history look like and if any specific factors about your pregnancy may require special attention. Your doctor will want to go over important pregnancy topics, such as:
- Your Medical history.
You’ll be asked about your medical history, including:
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- Any pre-existing conditions (e.g, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure)
- Previous pregnancies, deliveries or surgeries
- Medications that you are currently taking
- Family medical history
- Physical examination
Your doctor may perform a physical exam, including measuring your height, weight, blood pressure, and possibly listening to your heart and lungs.
- Blood and Urine Tests
You may undergo blood and urine tests to screen for conditions such as anemia, blood type and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Part of the blood test may also check your immunization status to infections, such as chickenpox, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap) and COVID-19
- Prenatal vitamins
Start taking these immediately, if you haven’t already. Your doctor may still remind you about them.
- Ultrasound
Depending on your gestational age and medical history, you may have an ultrasound to confirm your due date, or an ultrasound will be ordered for you next visit.
What will your doctor discuss?
All discussions are guided by your own pregnancy, medical history and potential risk factors. Your doctor may speak about one or more of the following.
- How to stay healthy during your pregnancy: For example, nutrition tips, stopping smoking or exercise.
- Your birth plan: A prenatal care plan is not something that needs to be set in stone immediately. There is a good chance that your care plan will change over time as your pregnancy progresses. Start thinking about your birth plan. However, keep an open mind and be flexible where possible.
- Pregnancy and risk factors: Depending on your health, pre-existing conditions and other factors, your pregnancy may be deemed high risk. If so, your doctor may start discussing what this looks like and what other healthcare professionals would be involved in your overall care.
Be sure to bring up other questions, including topics of concern or uncertainty. This is your chance to ask.
Tests or Exams That May Be Suggested
During your first prenatal appointment and subsequent visits, your doctor may recommend various tests and screenings to monitor your health and your baby’s health. These may include:
- Genetic Screening: Genetic screening tests may be offered to assess the risk of genetic conditions or birth defects based on age, family history, and personal preferences.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound (or follow-up ultrasound) may be performed to confirm the pregnancy, determine the due date and assess fetal development.
- First-Trimester Screening: This combination of blood tests and ultrasound helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome.
What Happens After the Prenatal Appointment
After your first prenatal appointment, you’ll continue to attend regular check-ups throughout your pregnancy. These appointments will involve monitoring your health, tracking fetal growth and development and addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Attending all scheduled prenatal visits is important to ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your baby.
Tips: How to Prepare for the Appointment
Preparing for your first prenatal appointment can help ensure a smooth and productive visit. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
- Gather Medical Records: Bring any relevant medical records, including your medical history, previous pregnancies, vaccination history and current medications.
- Write Down Questions: Take time to jot down any questions or concerns about pregnancy, childbirth, or prenatal care.
- Bring A Family Member: Consider bringing a partner, family member, or friend to the appointment to provide support and help remember important information.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove for physical exams, if needed.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before your appointment, especially if you must provide a urine sample.
- Give Yourself Time: Try to book your appointment with plenty of flexibility. Your appointment may take a little longer than expected, so try to book it at a time that isn’t busy.
We hope you feel more prepared and excited to attend your first prenatal appointment. If you have any questions about the appointment, contact one of our team members.
