Your First Visit

The sooner you seek prenatal care, the better. Your health care provider can tell you whether you really are pregnant. A physical exam and lab tests will show if there are any special concerns. Your health care provider can then plan the care that will help prevent problems later.

The first visit will take longer than other visits. This is because your pregnancy will be confirmed and new information will be discussed with you. You'll also have a detailed exam and lab tests.

Health History

Your health care provider will ask about your health history. He or she wants to find out if:

• There are any chronic or genetic diseases or birth defects in your family.

• You have been pregnant before or have had an abortion or miscarriage.

• You have had surgery.

• You have been exposed to certain diseases such as measles or herpes.

• You have any allergies.

• You are taking any medications.

A Complete Physical Exam

Your exam may include:

• Measurements of your height, weight, and blood pressure.

• An exam of your thyroid, heart, and lungs.

• A breast exam.

• A pelvic exam, including a pap smear and measurements of your pelvis and uterus.

• A urine sample and blood tests.

A Visit About Once a Month

During each visit, your weight is checked to make sure you are gaining a healthy amount. (You may not gain much until the second trimester.) Your blood pressure will be taken, and you may give another urine sample. If you have bleeding or increased discharge, you may have a pelvic exam. Your health care provider will talk with you about your lab test results, and answer any questions you have.

Planning for Appointments

Try to plan a regular time slot for your checkups. You may have to talk with your employer. Some women who work prefer to go on their lunch hour. Others would rather go at the end of their workday. At each appointment, set up your next visit.