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2 Apr 2024

What to expect during the first prenatal visit

Pregnancy
Pregnancy follow-up
What to Expect During the First Prenatal Visit
The first prenatal visit is an important milestone on your journey to motherhood.
This initial visit with your healthcare provider sets the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and allows you to address any concerns you may have.
Here's what you can expect during this crucial appointment.
Medical History and Physical Examination
During your first prenatal visit, your healthcare provider will take a detailed medical history to understand your overall health and any pre-existing conditions.
They will inquire about your medical background, including previous pregnancies, surgeries, and chronic illnesses.
This information helps your provider assess any potential risks and tailor your care accordingly.
Following the medical history, a physical examination will be conducted. This may include measuring your weight, blood pressure, and height.
Your provider will also perform a pelvic exam to check the health of your reproductive organs.
Additionally, they might order blood and urine tests to screen for any underlying conditions such as anemia or gestational diabetes.
Establishing Due Date and Prenatal Care Plan
Determining your due date is an essential part of your prenatal visit.
Your provider will calculate it based on the first day of your last menstrual period and may confirm it with an ultrasound scan.
Knowing your due date helps you track your baby's development and ensures that you receive appropriate care throughout your pregnancy.
During this visit, your healthcare provider will also discuss your prenatal care plan.
They will outline the recommended schedule of visits and tests throughout your pregnancy.
Regular check-ups are crucial for monitoring your health and the growth of your baby.
It's important to follow this plan to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.
Addressing Your Questions and Concerns
Your first prenatal visit is an opportunity for you to ask any questions or express concerns you may have.
Your healthcare provider is there to support and guide you through this journey.
Feel free to discuss topics such as nutrition, exercise, medications, and prenatal vitamins.
They can provide valuable advice and resources to help you make informed decisions.
You may also discuss any discomfort or changes you've experienced during early pregnancy, such as morning sickness, fatigue, or mood swings.
Your provider can offer suggestions to alleviate these symptoms and provide reassurance.
Remember, no question is too small or insignificant – your well-being and peace of mind are important.
Emotional Support and Next Steps
Pregnancy can bring about a range of emotions, and your healthcare provider is there to provide emotional support as well.
They understand the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and can offer guidance on managing stress and maintaining a healthy mindset.
After your first prenatal visit, your healthcare provider will help you schedule subsequent appointments and tests based on your care plan.
They may also recommend prenatal classes or support groups where you can connect with other expectant parents and gain valuable insights.
Keep reading
Early Pregnancy Screening
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First Prenatal Visit 101
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First Trimester Check-Ins
2 min read
A
Anastasia
12 Jan 2024

Hello, I wanted to asked you guys about your first prenatal visit. I was told my first visit will only be a pregnancy test and going over information, no lab work not even to check for baby heart beat. Is this the new norm? My first two pregnancies I had lab work, check baby heartbeat, and a sonogram completed. 

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4 comments
D
Dynasty
Yes.my doctor did the same
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jenna
yeah it’s sucks being in the dark :/ because of this i did a private 6 week heartbeat ultrasound at a private clinic and paid $70 and it gave me so much relief try looking for one near you ! most obgyns don’t do your first ultrasound until 9 weeks unless you’re having issues
27 Mar 2024

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A
Ashley
10 Jul 2023

What should I expect to learn at my 15 week visit? Anyone have any questions to bring up? Ive been going every 4 weeks. This is my first pregnancy, I've gotten the big questions out of the way but I mainly just want to make sure baby boy looks and sounds healthy. 💙

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2 comments
H
Holly
Just try to stay positive the best you can possible. Don’t stress out.praying that you have a healthy and safe delivery. This is my first time.
27 Mar 2024

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A
Ashley
aww thank you Holly! Yes power of prayer is indeed powerful.
27 Mar 2024

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k
kylee
11 Jun 2023

Can someone tell me what they do at the first prenatal visit? i see my doctor tomorrow and nervous about getting blood drawn and stuff

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5 comments
A
Ashton
At mine we went over medical history, did a ultrasound and then blood work
27 Mar 2024

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k
kylee
no pap? i don’t like those things
27 Mar 2024

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B
Brittany
1 Jun 2023

I have my first prenatal appointment tomorrow.. I’ll be 9 weeks on Friday. What can I expect? Any tips? Questions I should ask? Thank you beautiful mamas 💕🫶🏼

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1 comments
M
Meggan
Expect lots of questions and blood work. They will also have you pee and maybe do an ultrasound!
27 Mar 2024

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B
Bri
22 Feb 2023

I have my first prenatal visit Tuesday 2/28 . I’m soo excited . I really haven’t done this in 8 years 🥰

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6 comments
K
Kaitlynn
Have my first prenatal visit on that day as well! Good luck! 🫣❤️
27 Mar 2024

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B
Bri
Yay, Good Luck to you as well ! I know your excited just as much as I am
27 Mar 2024

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Z
Zoey
25 Jun 2022

What will happen during my first prenatal appointment on August 3rd??? I'm kinda nervous.

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6 comments
K
Karissa
My first appt they did an ultrasound. I got to see and hear my baby. I have heard that some people don’t do an ultrasound but I think I had my appt later than most people due to not knowing I was pregnant.
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jessica
During mine this past Tuesday. They took my medical history asked for the fathers..took a urine test. Asked if I had any questions explained what my next visit would be discussed spotting since I had some and that was about it. She said since I was due for a pap in August and I should still be able to get one at that time we would wait. I was supposed to get an ultrasound but the tech had an emergency so I will be getting one done in 2 weeks at my next appointment
27 Mar 2024

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L
LIS
12 Jun 2022

So I just came from hospital they been telling me I’m 1cm this is my 2nd visit there. (I don’t get my prenatal there) after my first visit with them I went to my prenatal visit and she told me I wasn’t 1cm..SO IM CONFUSED ON WHO TO BELIEVE!?

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2 comments
S
Shanea
Girl they do that one will say 1cm one will say 2cm one will say 0 it’s annoying
27 Mar 2024

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L
LIS
It’s so annoying smh.
27 Mar 2024

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C
Claribell
24 May 2022

It’s been so long. I can’t remember. I’m 7 weeks pregnant. My first prenatal and ultrasound appt is on Thursday. I can’t wait!! What to expect? Is it too soon to hear the baby’s heart beat?

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4 comments
m
maura
At my first appointment, we did not hear a heart beat but we saw it . Apparently it's not good to hear it too early, something about the heat of the ultrasound. It will be a vaginal one and they did a pap too. Good luck mama
27 Mar 2024

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H
Heymi
Same here!! 7 weeks today appointment on Thursday!!!
27 Mar 2024

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m
mani
14 Dec 2021

Also can anyone tell me what to expect on first doctor visit as it’s my first time I am actually clue less abt it

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K
KiKi
A lot of testing and talking to u about different things .
27 Mar 2024

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N
Nawa
8 Nov 2021

Hey guys🙋🏽‍♀️ Expecting mom here! 😅 4 weeks pregnant, found out last week and it's first baby so super excited and nervous! I'm still trying to figure out what to choose for my first prenatal visit... Any suggestions?

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