You recently took your pregnancy test and it’s positive! Well now, it’s time to prepare for your first prenatal visit to the OBGYN doctor. If you are unsure of what to expect during your first visit, we have prepared some information for you!
Here is our breakdown of what to expect in your first prenatal visit.
1. Plenty of medical history questions
To understand your medical history your OBGYN doctor may ask questions on the following topics:
- Medical problems
- Psychological problems
- Date of your last menstrual period
- Blood pressure, weight, and height
- Results of your breast and cervical examination
- History of miscarriages or abortions
- Birth control methods
- Current medications
- Family’s medical history
You should present accurate responses to these questions to allow your doctor to understand your health better. Your last menstrual period (LMP) is vital for determining your gestational age and estimated due date (EDD).
2. Several laboratory blood tests
Your doctor may draw blood from you for conducting laboratory tests. Physical examinations are not sufficient for the doctor to make conclusions on your health – And so he/she may conduct blood tests for the following conditions:
- Rhesus factor (if you test negative for Rhesus factor, your doctor will rescreen you at 26-28 weeks)
- Hemoglobin levels
- History of infectious diseases such as chicken pox and hepatitis vaccine
- HIV test
- Cystic Fibrosis screen
- Sickle Cell prep screen
- Tay Sach’s screen
- Hepatitis B surface antigen
Your doctor may also conduct specific tests on some diseases such as tuberculosis. After concluding the tests your healthcare will suggest the possible medications when necessary.
3. Discussions with your healthcare provider
Your doctor may also discuss on the list of do’s and don’ts of a pregnant mother. The advice will cover areas such as:
- Travel limitations
- Type of food to eat
- Environmental hazards
- Miscarriage precautions
- Dieting, nutrition, exercise, and weight gain
- Fevers and medications
Ask your doctor on the areas you don’t understand well i.e. birth methods and pregnancy-associated issues. You may also opt for enrolling into an antenatal class to understand the about your body changes, light exercises that may make you more comfortable, learn about newborn care and breastfeeding tips. Choose experienced and well-known antenatal class trainers so you can learn valuable information to handle your pregnancy safely and well!