Every prenatal visit is a valuable opportunity to learn more about your pregnancy, address concerns, and plan for what’s ahead. Being proactive with the right questions can help you feel confident, informed, and prepared at each stage.
Below is a list of key topics and questions you should consider bringing up with your provider — especially if it’s your first pregnancy or things feel uncertain.
1. Diet, Supplements, and Exercise: What’s Safe and What’s Not?
Your body’s needs are changing — and so should your habits. Ask your provider:
- What should I be eating more of (or avoiding) during pregnancy?
- Is my prenatal vitamin giving me enough folic acid and iron?
- Can I continue my current exercise routine?
- Are there any activities I should stop doing?
- What’s a healthy amount of weight to gain in my case?
Also mention any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarianism, food allergies, or morning sickness affecting your intake.
2. What Symptoms Should I Be Watching For Between Visits?
It’s common to feel unsure about what’s “normal” versus what’s worth a call to your provider. Ask:
- What symptoms are considered warning signs?
- When should I call the clinic or go to the hospital?
- Is spotting or cramping normal at this stage?
- What changes in fetal movement should I report?
A good provider will walk you through the red flags and reassure you about common discomforts like nausea or backaches.
3. Are My Medications or Treatments Safe During Pregnancy?
From everyday medications to herbal remedies and skincare, many products can affect your pregnancy. Bring a list of what you use regularly and ask:
- Is it safe to continue taking [name of medication]?
- What over-the-counter pain relievers are OK?
- Are there any supplements I should avoid?
- Can I keep seeing my chiropractor or acupuncturist?
Also ask about cosmetic treatments (like hair dye, facials, or laser procedures) if they’re part of your routine.
4. How Often Will I Have Prenatal Appointments?
Your visit schedule will change over time. Ask:
- How frequently will I need to come in?
- What’s the purpose of each visit?
- When will I have ultrasounds or specific screenings?
- Will I see the same provider throughout?
This helps you plan ahead — especially if you need to take time off work or arrange childcare.
5. What Should I Know About Birth Planning and Postpartum Support?
Even in early pregnancy, it’s helpful to start thinking ahead. Ask your provider:
- When will we start discussing my birth plan?
- Can I choose my birth setting (hospital, birth center, home)?
- What are my pain management options?
- Who will support me during labor?
- What postpartum resources are available (lactation, mental health, pelvic floor therapy)?
Also ask how to prepare for things like maternity leave, newborn care classes, and postpartum recovery.
Bonus: Don’t Forget to Ask These Personal Questions, Too
- Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?
- What should I know about emotional changes or anxiety?
- Are my travel plans safe during this trimester?
- How will we handle high-risk factors (age, past complications, etc.)?
Remember, no question is too small or too personal. Your prenatal visits are a safe space — your provider is there to listen, guide, and support you.
Final Tip: Bring a Notebook or Use a Pregnancy App
You won’t remember everything — and that’s okay. Use a pregnancy app or small notebook to jot down your questions ahead of each visit and note down the answers during your appointment.
Reference:
Bathing Your Baby – HealthyChildren.org
Baby bath basics: A parent’s guide – Mayo Clinic
Complete Guide to Bathing a Newborn Baby (Step-By-Step) – YouTube
