Pregnancy Q & A

When should I start pregnancy care?

The best way to keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy is early and regular prenatal care visits. The team at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology recommends you contact the office to schedule your first appointment as soon as you know or think you’re pregnant.

In most cases, the team schedules your first prenatal visit eight weeks after the start of your last menstrual period. However, the team may have you come in sooner if you have a history of high-risk pregnancy or you have any symptoms of concern, like spotting or cramping.

What happens during pregnancy care?

Every woman’s pregnancy is different. Whether it’s your first or third, what happens during your pregnancy care at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology depends on you and your baby’s needs. 

During your first prenatal visit to the office, the team conducts a comprehensive history and physical exam, which may include:

• Test to confirm pregnancy
• Review of your gynecological, sexual, medical, and family history
• Review of your partner’s medical, family, and sexual history
• Check of blood pressure, heart rate, and weight
• Physical and pelvic exam
• Pap smear
• Blood work and urinalysis
• Ultrasound to estimate your due date

The team also spends time answering all of your questions and talking to you about what you can expect throughout your pregnancy. They prescribe a prenatal multivitamin and schedule your next pregnancy care appointment. 

How often do I need pregnancy care?

You can expect regular prenatal visits with the team at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology throughout your entire pregnancy. The frequency of your follow-up appointments depends on your pregnancy needs and how far along you are. 

In general, you can expect a monthly appointment up until week 28 and then two appointments a month up until week 36. Then, the team has you come in once a week until you give birth. 

What health screenings happen during pregnancy?

One of the reasons the team has you come in so often during your pregnancy is to screen for health issues that may affect you or your baby. 

Health screenings may include:

• Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) for birth abnormalities
• Maternal screening for birth abnormalities
• Blood pressure for preeclampsia
• Glucose challenge test for gestational diabetes
• Blood test for anemia
• Sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing
• Group B streptococcus infection (may cause pneumonia in your newborn)

Most women in the United States give birth to healthy babies. Finding potential health problems early is one of the key factors in helping keep you both healthy and well.

For exceptional pregnancy care from an experienced team, call Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology at (541) 205-6890, or request an appointment online today.