Pregnancy and Your First Prenatal Visit

You are all excited because you are pregnant and you are about to have your very first prenatal appointment. You are a little nervous because you are unsure of what to expect. Read this article to find out what typical first prenatal visits are like. It’s very important that when find out that you are pregnant by taking a home pregnancy test or as soon as you suspect that you are pregnant; make an appointment to see your obstetrician or gynecologist. These visits to your physician during your pregnancy are very crucial for both your health and the health of your baby. Early detection of any troubles that do develop can help to preclude complications. Your first visit to the doctor will involve first confirming your pregnancy by an office pregnancy test by urine or a blood test. A complete medical history will be taken. Then a physical examination that will include a pelvic exam will be conducted. Your health will also be determined by blood and urine tests. The office will also have you fill out forms that include any information about previous pregnancies and any medications that you are currently taking. Your current medical condition will also be assessed based on information you give and your examination. You may need screening tests based on your answers or your examination that may include tests for genetic conditions, which may detect your risk for birth defects, diabetes and hypertension. The more the doctor knows about your medical history and past pregnancies the better assessment can be made of your risk factors concerning your pregnancy. You’ll be asked if you have any questions about pregnancy such as diet, prenatal vitamins, exercise, medications, lifestyle changes that may be suggested, and sexual activity. Your inquiries will be answered. Your doctor or the medical staff will inquire what your first day of your last menstrual period was and a pregnancy due date will be determined. If your periods are abnormal or there’s any question about the accuracy of your due date, an ultrasound may be scheduled for dating purposes.

Physical Exam will include:
Pregnancy test to confirm pregnancy Assessment of your blood pressure, breasts, ears, eyes, heart, height, thyroid gland, weight, and temperature.

Questions:
Your doctor, midwife, or the medical staff will be happy to answer any questions not answered during the examination including what prenatal vitamins should be taken if you haven’t already started them during your pre-pregnancy, what diet you should be following, how safe various exercises are, and any necessary medication changes that will help to keep your pregnancy safe as well as any lifestyle changes suggested by the medical staff.
<< Previous || Next Post >>