You've taken an at-home test, and guess what? You're pregnant! Lots of things are going through your mind, but one of the first things you should do is schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN.
Typically, this first appointment will be scheduled at about the eight-week mark. In the days before your appointment, gather your health records and family health history, and make note of any medications or supplements you've been taking. And, if you haven't already, now's the time to stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
This will be different from any appointment you've had before, so be sure to write down your questions and bring your spouse, partner, or a trusted family member or friend to help you remember everything that was discussed.
What to expect
"The appointment will likely by one of the longest prenatal visits you'll have, which means you should have plenty of time to ask questions," says Nancy McCauley, DO, an independent member of the HonorHealth medical staff. Here's what you can expect to happen:
- You'll have a check-up, including a pelvic exam, Pap test and testing for sexually transmitted diseases.
- Your doctor will want to know about your gynecological health such as the regularity of your menstrual cycles, the first day of your last period and details regarding any previous pregnancies.
If you know when you conceived and/or the date of your last period, your doctor can calculate your estimated due date.
- You'll also give blood and urine samples that will confirm your pregnancy, and provide relevant information about blood sugar, infections, blood type, anemia and immunity to certain diseases, such as rubella and chicken pox.
- Now might also be the time when you and your doctor discuss options for prenatal genetic testing.
- Depending on where you're at in your pregnancy, your doctor may perform a vaginal ultrasound, which might give you a first glimpse of your baby's heartbeat.
Discuss a healthy diet, vitamins and exercise
You'll be in and out of this office quite a bit over the next nine months, so now's the time to ensure you feel comfortable, and that you're in an environment where you feel supported.
Be sure to discuss healthy diet, exercise recommendations (or precautions) and if you should be taking a prenatal vitamin. Your doctor will give you a sense of what to expect during pregnancy and any symptoms that would require immediate attention.
"Regular prenatal care is critical, so be sure to attend all your scheduled appointments," says Dr. McCauley. These will be every four weeks to start and will become more frequent as your due date approaches. Keep a running list of questions between appointments, and if there's something that seems more immediate, don't hesitate to call your doctor's office right away.