The key to protecting the health of your child is to get regular prenatal care. If you think you're pregnant, call your health care provider to schedule an appointment. You should schedule your first examination as soon as you think that you are pregnant.
Find a Physician
The first step is to identify which physician you would like to join you on your journey to parenthood. All our family practice doctors work together to provide the best care possible for our moms-to-be, but you will want to select who you would like to be primary doctor.
Meet our OB Physician Team
Initial Nurse Visit
Your initial visit will be a one-on-one consultation with a specially trained obstetrics nurse.
-
Review your medical history
-
Learn what to expect during pregnancy
-
Complete initial lab work
-
Schedule your first visit with your doctor
-
Plan your first ultrasound
First Doctor Visit
At your first visit, your healthcare provider will determine how many weeks pregnant you are based on a physical examination and the date of your last period. He or she will also use this information to predict your delivery date (however, an ultrasound performed sometime during your pregnancy will help to verify that date).
Regular Doctor Visits
Your next step will be regular visits with your doctor.
-
Every four weeks through week 30
-
Every two weeks through week 36
-
Every week until delivery
Throughout your pregnancy, your healthcare provider will check your weight and blood pressure while also checking the growth and development of your baby. He or she will do this by feeling your abdomen, listening for the fetal heartbeat and measuring your belly). During the span of your pregnancy, you'll also have prenatal tests, including blood, urine, and cervical tests, and at least one ultrasound.
Midway Nurse Visit
Midway through your pregnancy, around 24 weeks, you will meet with an obstetrics nurse to discuss:
-
Weight Gain
-
Pre-term Labor
-
Nutrition
Pre-Admission Visit
Near the end of your pregnancy, your obstetric nurses will meet with you to:
-
Pre-admit for delivery
-
Discuss pain control options
-
Determine birthing preferences
-
Tour the medical center and nursery
|
