Here’s How to Prepare for Your First Prenatal Checkup

Going to your first prenatal checkup is an exciting event. While you’ll have many more checkups throughout your pregnancy ― with the frequency increasing as you near your baby’s due date ― your first visit is one of the most important.

Your first prenatal checkup will also be one of your longest checkups, because there will be so many things to cover. In this blog, the team at the obstetrics and gynecology office of Darin L. Weyhrich, MD, explains what you can expect during your first prenatal visit.

Your first prenatal visit may not happen right away

You should call Dr. Weyhrich as soon as you get a positive pregnancy test. But don’t be surprised if your first visit isn’t right away. We usually schedule the first prenatal visit after the eighth week of pregnancy. However, if you had a prior difficult pregnancy or have any concerning symptoms, such as bleeding or pain, you should see us right away.

Be prepared to discuss a number of issues

Your first prenatal checkup might feel a bit like an interrogation. Come prepared to answer a lot of questions from Dr. Weyhrich about your health habits, your health history, and your lifestyle factors, including your stress levels. 

Dr. Weyhrich will also ask you about previous pregnancies and miscarriages as well as questions about any habits that may put your baby’s health at risk, such as drinking or smoking. Furthermore, Dr. Weyhrich may ask you about the health of your baby’s father.

Expect some testing

We typically perform a battery of tests at the first prenatal visit. Tests we perform could include the following:

• Urine test to confirm the pregnancy
• Blood test to screen for Rh factor
• Blood test to get your blood type
• Blood test to get your total blood count
• Pap test and screenings to test for sexually transmitted diseases

All of these tests will help us screen for possible issues that may come up later in your pregnancy.

As your pregnancy progresses, you may opt for additional screenings that could help identify any genetic issues with your baby. Your subsequent visits should be much shorter. You’ll generally have prenatal visits once a month until the last two months of pregnancy. Between weeks 29-36, you’ll come in every two weeks. After the 36th week, you’ll come in every week. 

A new baby is a time of great anticipation. Dr. Weyhrich is a kind and supportive professional partner who can help you give your baby a healthy start. If you recently tested positive for pregnancy, book an appointment over the phone with the office of Darin L. Weyhrich, MD, today.