What Happens at Your First Obstetrician Appointment?

Pregnant woman at prenatal care

You just took a home pregnancy test, and it’s showing two lines – congratulations! So, what do you do next? Should you start shopping for baby clothes or preparing your baby’s nursery?

Your best path forward is to schedule your first obstetrician appointment, which will help set the stage for the remainder of your pregnancy and the arrival of your bundle of joy.

If you’re curious as to what happens during your first prenatal appointment, check out this overview:

THE GETTING-TO-KNOW-YOU PART

Your first visit with your obstetrician may be the longest one because they will ask you a lot of questions, such as about your personal and family medical history (including your mental health history), and supplements and medications you may be taking. They may also ask you about your menstrual cycle and whether you’ve had a miscarriage. In addition, your OB/GYN may discuss any factors in relation to your health or lifestyle that can put you at risk for pregnancy complications.

A BATTERY OF TESTS

Your OB/GYN may then proceed with doing a physical and pelvic exam (and a Pap smear) as well as a transvaginal ultrasound scan to confirm your pregnancy, examine your cervix and uterus, and calculate your due date.

After these, your OB/GYN may order a battery of tests, such as the following, to assess your overall health and susceptibility to diseases or disorders that can impact your baby:

  • Blood test
  • Genetic carrier screening
  • Sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing
  • Urinalysis

Pregnancy Counseling and Health Recommendations

Your obstetrician may then give you advice relevant to your overall health and pregnancy as well as talk to you about the changes you and your baby will go through during this period.

Your doctor will prescribe vitamin supplements, such as iron and folic acid. If your OB/GYN determines that yours is a high-risk pregnancy, they may give you dietary and lifestyle recommendations to ensure you have a healthy and safe pregnancy.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU VISIT YOUR OBSTETRICIAN?

The schedule of prenatal visits can vary depending on personal circumstances, but on average, visits are typically recommended:

  • Every 4 weeks until week 28
  • Every 2-3 weeks between weeks 28 and 36
  • Weekly from 36 weeks until delivery

Obstetrician appointments are an ideal time to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your pregnancy or your baby. If you have any concerns outside of your appointment, do not hesitate to contact your obstetrician for advice.

RELIABLE OBSTETRICIAN IN WOOSTER, OHIO

At Wooster Community Hospital, we have a dedicated obstetrical unit – the Women’s Pavilion – where our highly qualified OB/GYNs and other obstetric care providers work closely with expectant women and their families to make the arrival of their bundles of joy a positive and memorable one.

To arrange an appointment with one of our providers, call us at (330) 202-5548. We’re all eager to serve you!