Congratulations! We are so excited that you’re bringing a tiny human into this world! And even more excited that we get to be a part of it.
If this is your first-time pregnancy, you’re probably a little confused about the numerous gynecologist visits that are going to happen throughout your pregnancy.
Don’t stress, we are here to explain exactly what to expect from start to finish. During the next 40 weeks, you’re probably going to be on a first-name basis with everyone in the doctor’s office.
We want your visits with us to be as stress-free as possible, here is what to expect.
What To Expect At Your Gynecologist Visits
Your first visit to the office will be anywhere between six and eleven weeks. If you are a new patient you will need to go through your medical history and family medical history.
Your weight and blood pressure will be recorded at every visit. Your doctor will also check your baby’s heartbeat at every appointment, your baby’s heartbeat will be audible any time after nine weeks. Hearing your baby’s heartbeat at every appointment is our favorite part.
You and your doctor will discuss your possible due date, which will be confirmed later by an ultrasound.
Your doctor will go through and talk to you about your lifestyle and things you may need to adjust. Foods you need to stay away from, what vitamins to take, And answer any questions you might have.
At every appointment, the doctor will ask for a urine sample and most likely do some bloodwork. A uring sample will be requested at every appointment to screen for certain infections and anemias to make sure everything is going to plan.
The doctor is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have, even if you think it might be small or silly, still ask!
How Often Are Gynecologist Visits
After your first appointment, you will continue to come in once every four weeks until you are up to 28 weeks pregnant. Then, you will come every two weeks until 36 weeks. And after that, you will come in weekly for appointments.
It is important that you come to every appointment so you and your baby get the best care possible. At each appointment, your doctor will discuss your baby’s development and make sure you are doing well with your pregnancy.
If at any time you have something to ask the doctor, you can either write it down and bring it with you to your appointment, or you can give the office a call at any time.
Blood Work and Tests
You will have a lot of blood work and tests will be done throughout your pregnancy. These tests are essential to know the well-being of your baby and yourself.
Common Prenatal Blood Tests
The most common prenatal blood test will include:
- Rhesus factor test
- Hemoglobin Measurement
- Amniocentesis, optional, between 14-20 weeks
- Biophysical Profile, third trimester
- Group B streptococcus
- Glucose Challenge Screening, your risk for gestational diabetes
There are dozens of tests for pregnant women during the entire duration of pregnancy to ensure the safety of both mother and child. Besides the above listed, you may be asked to do a complete blood count or a plethora of other blood tests.
This is why it is exceeding important to not miss a single prenatal visit; since these tests are essential for the wellbeing of you and your child.
Non-Stress Test
You might have multiple non-stress tests to monitor your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels. It is typical for your doctor to order one between 26 and 28 weeks, but you may need more. Non-stress tests are not a cause for concern, they are routine and are just to make sure everything is going alright.
Ultrasounds
There are many reasons for your doctor to order an ultrasound. Around 20 weeks you will need one for a full anatomy scan.
You might also need one to confirm the pregnancy, check for multiple babies, examine the placenta, uterus, ovaries, and cervix. To measure amniotic fluid, monitor the baby’s position, check the heartbeat, monitor overall growth, and check for any abnormalities are also reasons for ultrasounds.
Ultrasounds are very exciting, they’re the first time you get to see your little one growing inside of you. You will usually leave with a sonogram photo of your baby.
Urine Test
The urine test that your doctor does at every prenatal test is used to measure bacteria, protein, sugar, and ketones. This is done to monitor your likelihood of a UTI, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia, among other things.
Third Trimester
At 28 weeks you are entering your third trimester. Your doctor will ask you to be aware of your baby’s movements. If there are any drastic changes, you need to contact your doctor immediately.
Soon your doctor appointments will become more frequent, as your baby is getting bigger very quickly!
At any time during your pregnancy, but especially the third trimester, if you feel any pain or discomfort that may be signs of labor you should call your doctor’s office. Usually, these are just signs that your body is getting ready for labor, but we always want to make sure.
Congratulations!
We are so excited for you and your family. This is a very exciting time. Make sure you are one hundred percent comfortable with your doctor, they are going to be a big part of your life for the next forty weeks!
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have. We will be happy to answer any questions you have about your pre or post-natal gynecologist visits.