What to Expect at Your Prenatal Visits: A Week-by-Week Guide

Prenatal visits are a cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy, helping ensure both you and your baby are thriving. For first-time parents, these appointments can seem both exciting and daunting. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during your prenatal checkups, trimester by trimester.

First Trimester Visits (Weeks 4–12)

Your first trimester appointments are focused on confirming your pregnancy and establishing a baseline for your care.
What Happens:

• Initial Assessment: The first visit includes a thorough review of your medical history and a physical exam. Your provider will confirm your pregnancy with a urine or blood test and may order an early ultrasound to determine your due date.
• Bloodwork: Comprehensive tests will check for blood type, Rh factor, immunity to certain diseases, and other essential health indicators.
• Lifestyle Guidance: Your provider will discuss prenatal vitamins, nutrition, and any necessary lifestyle adjustments (like avoiding certain foods or activities).
• Questions to Ask: This is the time to address concerns about morning sickness, fatigue, or safe exercises during pregnancy.

Frequency: Usually, you’ll visit your provider every four weeks during this trimester.

Second Trimester Visits (Weeks 13–27)

By the second trimester, your visits often become more focused on monitoring the baby’s growth and development.
What Happens:

• Routine Measurements: Your weight, blood pressure, and baby’s heartbeat will be monitored.
• Ultrasounds and Screening Tests: Around 18-22 weeks, you’ll have a detailed anatomy scan to check the baby’s development and possibly learn the baby’s gender, if you wish.
• Glucose Screening: Between 24–28 weeks, a glucose test will assess your risk for gestational diabetes.
• Addressing Symptoms: Discuss common second-trimester concerns such as back pain, heartburn, or sleep issues.

Frequency: Visits remain about four weeks apart unless you need additional monitoring.

Third Trimester Visits (Weeks 28–40)

The final trimester is all about preparing for labor and delivery while keeping a close eye on your baby’s well-being.
What Happens:

• More Frequent Visits: By 36 weeks, expect weekly appointments.
• Monitoring Baby’s Position: Your provider will check whether the baby is head-down and evaluate your cervix’s readiness for labor.
• Group B Strep Test: Around 36 weeks, this test checks for bacteria that might require antibiotics during delivery.
• Birth Plan Discussion: Finalize your plans for delivery, including pain management preferences and hospital procedures.

Questions to Ask: Now’s the time to clarify signs of labor, what to pack in your hospital bag, and when to call your provider.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Prenatal Visits

• Keep a Pregnancy Journal: Note down questions, symptoms, and milestones to discuss during your appointments.
• Bring Your Partner: Involving your partner can be a great bonding experience and help them feel connected to the process.
• Be Honest: Share any symptoms or concerns, even if they seem minor. Your provider is there to support you.

When to Call Your Provider Outside of Visits

It’s essential to know when to reach out between appointments. Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain or heavy bleeding.
• Sudden swelling in your hands, feet, or face.
• Signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions or fluid leakage.

Prenatal visits are your opportunity to connect with your baby’s journey and stay on top of your health. With the right preparation, these appointments can be a source of reassurance and empowerment. Remember, every pregnancy is unique—don’t hesitate to ask questions and lean on your healthcare team for guidance.