THE FIRST PRENATAL APPOINTMENT

Your first prenatal visit will often include the following: 

• Detailed personal and family medical history

• Lifestyle and activity questions

• Counseling/patient education: discussion of screening and diagnostic testing options for genetic and anatomic abnormalities

• A complete physical exam: to serve as a baseline for your pregnancy, may or may not include a pelvic exam

• Urine tests: check for protein levels and screen for UTIs

• Protein levels in early pregnancy could be the result of an underlying condition like diabetes, lupus, or kidney disease. In later pregnancy it could be a symptom of preeclampsia.

• An ultrasound: transvaginal or a Doppler (on your abdomen) to confirm the location and viability of the pregnancy, measure the size of the baby, and confirm gestational age and estimated due date, as well as check for multiples. 

• Dating scan - to help estimate Baby’s due date. In early pregnancy, most babies of the same gestational age are the same size. This dating scan measures Baby and helps estimate how long you have been pregnant and when you’re due. If you tracked your ovulation and periods, your estimated due date might be in range with your healthcare provider’s. 

• Blood work: confirming hormone levels, blood type, white and red blood cells, and certain STDs and infections. 

• TIP: It can be a lot of blood on the first visit, so please be hydrated.  

• Pap Smear: if you haven’t had one recently, your healthcare provider might order a pap smear to check for abnormalities

Check with your healthcare provider’s office if your partner can attend the appointment or not.

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