What to Expect at Your First Prenatal Appointment

Your first prenatal appointment is an exciting and essential step in your pregnancy journey. This initial visit helps establish your health baseline, confirm your pregnancy, and set the stage for a healthy nine months. Here’s what to expect at your first prenatal appointment and how to prepare.

When Is the First Prenatal Appointment?

The first appointment typically occurs around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy, but it may be scheduled earlier if you have specific health concerns or pregnancy risks.

What Happens at Your First Prenatal Appointment?

This visit is often longer than routine checkups, as your healthcare provider gathers detailed information and performs essential tests.
1. Medical History Review
Your provider will ask questions about:

• Your medical history, including chronic conditions or previous surgeries.
• Family medical history, including genetic disorders.
• Past pregnancies, miscarriages, or complications.
• Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and any substance use.

2. Pregnancy Confirmation

• A urine or blood test may be performed to confirm your pregnancy and estimate your due date.

3. Physical Exam
Your doctor may conduct a thorough physical exam, including:

• Weight and Blood Pressure: To establish a baseline for monitoring throughout pregnancy.
• Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear: To check the health of your cervix and screen for infections or abnormalities.

4. Ultrasound (if needed)

• An early ultrasound may be done to confirm your baby’s heartbeat and check the estimated due date.

5. Lab Work
You’ll likely have blood drawn to test for:

• Blood Type and Rh Factor: To identify any potential incompatibility with your baby’s blood type.
• Iron Levels: To check for anemia.
• Infections: Screening for conditions like HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis.
• Immunity: Testing for immunity to rubella and chickenpox.

6. Urine Test

• This checks for signs of infection, dehydration, and conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.

What Questions Will Be Asked?

Your provider may ask questions to understand your pregnancy and lifestyle better:

• When was your last period?
• Are you experiencing any symptoms like nausea or fatigue?
• Do you take any medications, vitamins, or supplements?
• Are there any specific concerns or questions you have?

What Questions Should You Ask?

Your first prenatal visit is the perfect time to address any concerns or curiosities, such as:

• What prenatal vitamins should I take?
• What foods and activities should I avoid?
• What symptoms are normal, and when should I call you?
• Are there any genetic screening tests I should consider?

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment

1. Track Your Last Menstrual Period: This helps estimate your due date.
2. List Your Medications: Include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
3. Prepare Questions: Write down any concerns or topics you want to discuss.
4. Bring Your Partner or Support Person: They can help take notes or ask questions.

What Comes Next?

After your first visit, you’ll typically have prenatal appointments every 4 weeks until the third trimester. These checkups ensure you and your baby remain healthy and allow your provider to monitor growth and address concerns.

Your first prenatal appointment sets the tone for your pregnancy care. By understanding what to expect and preparing ahead, you can make the most of this essential visit. It’s the beginning of a beautiful journey toward meeting your baby!