Your first prenatal visit is a big step on your pregnancy journey. It sets the foundation for your care over the next nine months and gives you a chance to connect with your healthcare provider, ask questions, and make a plan for a healthy pregnancy.
Here’s what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth, stress-free visit.
1. What Happens During the First Prenatal Visit?
Your first prenatal appointment usually happens between weeks 8 to 10 of pregnancy. It’s a longer visit because there’s a lot to cover. Here’s what you can expect:
- Confirming your pregnancy with a urine or blood test
- Estimating your due date based on your last menstrual period (LMP) or early ultrasound
- Comprehensive physical exam, including:
- Pelvic exam and Pap smear (if needed)
- Blood pressure and weight check
- Breast and abdominal exam
- Blood tests to screen for:
- Blood type and Rh factor
- Anemia
- Infections (HIV, hepatitis B, syphilis, rubella immunity)
- Urine test to check for proteins, sugar, and signs of infection
2. Questions to Expect From Your Provider
To give you the best care, your provider will ask questions like:
- When was your last period?
- Is this your first pregnancy?
- Do you have any history of miscarriage, fertility treatment, or medical conditions?
- What medications or supplements are you currently taking?
- Do you smoke, drink alcohol, or use any substances?
- Are you exposed to workplace or environmental hazards?
- What is your typical diet and activity level?
Be honest — there’s no judgment here. Your answers help create a personalized care plan.
3. What to Bring With You
To make the most of your appointment, bring the following:
- 🗂️ Medical history: Any chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid issues), surgeries, past pregnancies, or allergies
- 💊 List of current medications and supplements
- 🩺 Partner or family history: Any known genetic disorders or inherited conditions
- 🪪 Health insurance card and ID
- 📒 Questions or concerns you may want to discuss — jot them down ahead of time!
Pro tip: Arrive a bit early to complete any paperwork, especially if it’s your first time at the clinic.
4. Early Tests and Measurements
Your provider will begin tracking baseline measurements like:
- Weight and blood pressure
- Fundal height (as pregnancy progresses)
- Fetal heart rate (with Doppler or ultrasound if far enough along)
These will be used as comparison points throughout your pregnancy.
You may also discuss optional early screenings, like:
- Genetic carrier screening
- First trimester screening for chromosomal abnormalities
5. Lifestyle and Pregnancy Planning Discussion
This visit is the perfect time to talk openly about:
- Nutrition and prenatal vitamins
- Exercise and sleep
- Sexual activity and emotional well-being
- Travel plans, work-related stress, and safety
- Vaccinations (like flu or Tdap)
- Plans for delivery and any concerns about birth or labor
If you have specific goals, such as natural birth or midwife care, bring them up early so your team can support your preferences.
Final Tip
Don’t hesitate to ask anything — no question is too small. Your healthcare provider is here to guide you through every stage of your pregnancy with knowledge, compassion, and care.
