17 weeks pregnant doctor visit

Your Guide to Prenatal Appointments

Medical review policy, latest update:.

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Typical prenatal appointment schedule

Read this next, what happens during a prenatal care appointment, what tests will i receive at my prenatal appointments, what will i talk about with my practitioner at prenatal care appointments , first trimester prenatal appointments: what to expect, second trimester prenatal appointments: what to expect, third trimester prenatal appointments: what to expect, questions to ask during prenatal appointments  .

Prenatal care visits are chock-full of tests, measurements, questions and concerns, but know that throughout the process your and your baby’s wellbeing are the main focus. Keep your schedule organized so you don’t miss any appointments and jot down anything you want to discuss with your doctor and your prenatal experience should end up being both positive and rewarding.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting , 5th edition, Heidi Murkoff. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists,  Having a Baby After Age 35: How Aging Affects Fertility and Pregnancy , 2020. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists,  Routine Tests During Pregnancy , 2020. US Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Women’s Health,  Prenatal Care and Tests , January 2019. Journal of Perinatology ,  Number of Prenatal Visits and Pregnancy Outcomes in Low-risk wWomen , June 2016. Mayo Clinic,  Edema , October 2017. Mayo Clinic,  Prenatal Care: 2nd Trimester Visits , August 2020. Mayo Clinic,  Prenatal Care: 3rd Trimester Visits , August 2020. Jennifer Leighdon Wu, M.D., Women’s Health of Manhattan, New York, NY. WhatToExpect.com, Preeclampsia: Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com, Prenatal Testing During Pregnancy , March 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Urine Tests During Pregnancy , May 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Fetal Heartbeat: The Development of Baby’s Circulatory System , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Amniocentesis , Mary 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Ultrasound During Pregnancy , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Rh Factor Testing , June 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Glucose Screening and Glucose Tolerance Test , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com, Nuchal Translucency Screening , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com, Group B Strep Testing During Pregnancy , August 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  The Nonstress Test During Pregnancy , April 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Biophysical Profile (BPP) , May 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Noninvasive Prenatal Testing , (NIPT), April 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  The Quad Screen , February 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) , February 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  The First Prenatal Appointment , June 2019. WhatToExpect.com,  Breech Birth: What it Means for You , September 2018.

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Prenatal visits: What to expect and how to prepare

Regular prenatal visits are an important part of your pregnancy care. Find out how often you'll see a healthcare provider, what to expect at each appointment, and smart ways to prepare.

When to schedule a prenatal visit

Prenatal visitation schedule, how should i prepare for a prenatal visit, what happens during prenatal visits, how can i make the most of my pregnancy appointments.

Make an appointment for your first prenatal visit once you're aware you are pregnant – when you receive a positive home pregnancy test, for example. Booking it around week 8 of pregnancy is typical.

You'll come back regularly in the weeks and months following that initial appointment. Most people have between 8 and 14 prenatal visits throughout the course of their pregnancy.

During this time, you'll see a lot of your healthcare practitioner. That's why it's so important to choose someone you like and trust. If you're not comfortable or satisfied with your provider after your first visit or visits, don't be afraid to find someone with whom you have a better connection.

Typically, a pregnant woman will visit their doctor, midwife , or nurse practitioner every four weeks during the first and second trimesters. In the third trimester, you'll be seen more often – usually every other week until 36 weeks, and then every week until the baby is born.

For more information on what happens at these visits, see:

Your first prenatal visit

Second trimester prenatal visits (14 weeks to 27 weeks)

Third trimester prenatal visits (28 weeks through the end of pregnancy)

The specific number of scheduled appointments you'll have depends on if your pregnancy is considered to be high-risk. This is determined by your medical history and whether you have any complications or conditions that warrant more frequent checkups, such as gestational diabetes , high blood pressure , or a history of preterm labor . If you've had any medical problems in the past or develop any new problems during this pregnancy, you may need more prenatal visits than the average pregnant woman.

In the weeks before each visit, jot down any questions or concerns in a notebook or a notes app on your smartphone. This way, you'll remember to ask your practitioner about them at your next appointment. You may be surprised by how many questions you have, so don't miss the opportunity to get some answers in person.

For example, before you drink an herbal tea or take a supplement or an over-the-counter medication , ask your provider about it. You can even bring the item itself – or a picture of the label – with you to your next appointment. Then, your doctor, midwife, or nurse practitioner can read the label and let you know whether it's okay to ingest.

Of course, if you have any pressing questions or worries, or develop any new, unusual, or severe symptoms , don't wait for your appointment – call your practitioner right away.

In addition to your list, you may want to bring a partner, friend, family member, or labor coach with you to some or all of your prenatal visits. They can comfort you, take notes, ask questions, and help you remember important information.

The goal of prenatal visits is to see how your pregnancy is proceeding and to provide you with information to help keep you and your baby healthy. It's important that you go to all of your prenatal appointments, even if you're feeling just fine and believe that everything is progressing perfectly.

Your practitioner will start by asking how you're feeling physically and emotionally, whether you have any complaints or worries, and what questions you may have. They'll also ask you about your baby's movements once you begin to feel them, typically during the second trimester. Your practitioner will have other questions as well, which will vary depending on how far along you are and whether there are specific concerns.

Your midwife, doctor, or nurse practitioner will also:

• Check your weight , blood pressure , and urine
• Check for swelling
• Measure your abdomen
• Check the position of your baby
• Listen to your baby's heartbeat
• Perform other exams and order tests, as appropriate
• Give you the appropriate vaccinations
• Closely monitor any complications you have or that you develop, and intervene if necessary

Near the end of your pregnancy, your provider may also do a pelvic exam to check for cervical changes. You will also discuss your delivery plan in more depth.

At the end of each visit, your practitioner will review their findings with you. They'll also explain the normal changes to expect before your next visit, warning signs to watch for, and the pros and cons of optional tests you may want to consider. Lifestyle issues will likely be a topic of discussion, as well. Expect to talk about the importance of good nutrition , sleep, oral health, stress management, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding tobacco , alcohol , and illicit drugs.

Many people look forward to their prenatal appointments but are disappointed to find that, with the exception of the first visit, they're in and out of the office in 10 minutes. A quick visit is typical and is usually a sign that everything is progressing normally. Still, you want to make sure your concerns are addressed – and that you and your baby are being well cared for.

Here are some things you can do to ensure that your prenatal visits are satisfying:

• Speak up. Your practitioner isn't a mind reader and won't be able to tell what you're thinking just by performing a physical exam. So, if anything is bothering you, say your piece. Are you having trouble controlling your heartburn ? Managing your constipation ? Suffering from headaches ? This is the time to ask for advice. Consult the notebook of questions you've been compiling. In addition to physical complaints, let your practitioner know if you have emotional concerns or fitness or nutrition questions.
• Ask the staff about the administrative stuff. Save your questions about things like insurance and directions to the hospital for the office staff so your practitioner has more time to answer your health-related questions. Go to the admin staff with any inquiries about payments, scheduling, office policies, and your contact information.
• Be open-minded. When talking with your doctor, midwife, or nurse practitioner, you should feel comfortable speaking freely. But remember to listen, too. Take notes if you find it helpful.

Keep in mind, too, that some days are busier than others. This is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic. That doesn't mean your practitioner doesn't have to answer your questions, but sometimes a discussion can be continued at the next visit if it's a really busy day or if your practitioner needs to head to the hospital to deliver a baby.

At the same time, don't tolerate a healthcare practitioner who won't give you thorough answers, doesn't show reasonable compassion, or barely looks up from your chart. You and your baby deserve more than that.

Now that you know what to expect during all those prenatal visits, you might like a sneak peek at what else is in store. Here's an overview of the next nine months .

Learn more:

• The ultimate pregnancy to-do list: First trimester
• 12 steps to a healthy pregnancy
• When will my pregnancy start to show?
• Fetal development timeline

Was this article helpful?

What happens at second trimester prenatal appointments

What to expect at your first prenatal appointment

What to expect from third trimester prenatal appointments

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

MedlinePlus. (2021). Prenatal care in your first trimester. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000544.htm Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

March of Dimes. (2017). Prenatal Care Checkups. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/prenatal-care-checkups.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

Office on Women’s Health. (2019). Prenatal Care and Tests. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/prenatal-care-and-tests Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2017). What happens during prenatal visits? https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/preconceptioncare/conditioninfo/prenatal-visits Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2017). What is a high-risk pregnancy? https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo/high-risk Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2018). What are some factors that make a pregnancy high-risk? https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/high-risk/conditioninfo/factors Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

March of Dimes. (2020). Over-the-Counter Medicine, Supplements, and Herbal Products During Pregnancy. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/over-the-counter-medicine-supplements-and-herbal-products.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

Associates in Women’s Healthcare (2021). Preparing for Your First Prenatal Visit. https://www.associatesinwomenshealthcare.net/blog/preparing-for-your-first-prenatal-visit/ Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

National Health Service (UK). (2018). Your baby’s movements. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/your-babys-movements/ Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

MedlinePlus. (2021). Prenatal care in your third trimester. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000558.htm Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

UCLA Health. (2021). Schedule of prenatal care. https://www.uclahealth.org/obgyn/workfiles/Pregnancy/Schedule_of_Prenatal_Care.pdf Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

UCR Health. (2021). Healthy Pregnancy: The Importance of Prenatal Care.   https://www.ucrhealth.org/2018/07/healthy-pregnancy-the-importance-of-prenatal-care/ Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

Mayo Clinic. (2020). Prenatal care: 1 st trimesters visits. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-care/art-20044882 Opens a new window [Accessed September 21, 2021.]

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Prenatal Appointment – Weeks 16 to 20 | My Doctor Online

My Doctor Online

Prenatal appointment – weeks 16 to 20, physician and woman reviewing information in front of a monitor.

At this appointment your clinician will: 

• Check your blood pressure and weight. 
• Take a urine sample, if you have certain conditions.
• Listen to your baby's heartbeat. 
• Talk about healthy weight gain, nutrition, and exercise during pregnancy.

Your clinician may also:

• Check your baby’s growth by measuring the size of your abdomen. 
• Discuss the results of any genetic screening tests you’ve had. If you decided to do certain types of genetic screening, you’ll be due for the second part of those screenings. 
• Review additional screenings that can be done in the second trimester. 
• Talk with you and develop a care plan if you’re pregnancy is considered “high risk.”

Radiology appointment for fetal anatomic ultrasound

You’ll be scheduled for a separate appointment in the Radiology Department for a longer, more detailed ultrasound. 

Most parents-to-be really enjoy this appointment because they get to see their baby in motion. You might see your baby kick, wave, turn over, hiccup, or suck their thumb. This is a great appointment for your partner or support person to attend. 

During this ultrasound, the technician will: 

• View your baby’s internal structures, such as heart, brain, and other organs.
• Measure your baby’s growth and development. 
• Check the position of the placenta, umbilical cord, and the amount of amniotic fluid. 

The technician is usually able to tell you if your baby is a boy or girl, if you want to know.

Additional References

If you have an emergency medical condition, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. An emergency medical condition is any of the following: (1) a medical condition that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain) such that you could reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical attention to result in serious jeopardy to your health or body functions or organs; (2) active labor when there isn't enough time for safe transfer to a Plan hospital (or designated hospital) before delivery, or if transfer poses a threat to your (or your unborn child's) health and safety, or (3) a mental disorder that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity such that either you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or you are not immediately able to provide for, or use, food, shelter, or clothing, due to the mental disorder.

This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only. 

Wondering what to expect from your prenatal care doctor visits? Not sure what your prenatal care options are? Find all of the answers and information you need here to start your pregnancy off on the right foot.

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What Happens During a Prenatal Care Office Visit?

If your pregnancy is unplanned, it’s likely that you haven’t taken any steps to ensure your early pregnancy started on a healthy note. That’s completely okay; many women don’t know about their pregnancy until they are several weeks along, and it’s normal for them to continue their everyday lifestyle until then.

However, it’s important to start thinking about the necessary prenatal care services you’ll need as soon as you can in your pregnancy to give yourself and your baby a healthy start for the nine months ahead.

When you start researching your upcoming prenatal care doctor visits, you probably have a few questions. What happens during a prenatal care office visit? How different can it be from annual checkups by your general practitioner?

We know that pregnancy care can be confusing for many women, especially those who are facing their first pregnancies or those who didn’t expect to be pregnant at this time in their lives. To help you out, we’ve provided the basic information you need to know about your prenatal care options below. Having the right knowledge from the start will help you and your baby get the care you need to remain safe and healthy!

What Typical Prenatal Care Doctor Visits Include

Before we dive into the details of what happens during a prenatal care office visit, you first need to understand that every pregnancy is different. This means every woman will receive different prenatal care based on her personal medical background and current situation. Only an experienced obstetrician can give you the best idea of what prenatal care options are the best for you and your unborn baby.

That said, most prenatal care doctor visits include the same type of tests, screening and discussions. The best prenatal care is designed to track your baby’s development and your body’s own response to your pregnancy, so your doctor will usually take the same steps as all other obstetricians.

Your prenatal care appointments will vary based on how far along you are in your pregnancy, but most appointments will include a few basic points :

• Taking of your vital signs: Like any medical checkup, a prenatal care visit will include the basic health checks. This means your doctor will check your weight, blood pressure, urine and general well-being.
• Tracking the development of your baby: Prenatal care visits will, obviously, focus on your unborn baby. Your doctor will likely measure your abdomen, check the position of your baby, listen to your baby’s heartbeat and perform any other exams and tests recommended for your stage of pregnancy.
• Discussion of your pregnancy experience: Pregnancy is unique for every woman, and you will likely have questions and concerns for your doctor along the way. At every prenatal care appointment, your doctor will discuss normal and abnormal signs during this stage in your pregnancy, what to expect as you continue and what your personal medical situation may require. They will also help you prepare for your upcoming labor and delivery experience , too.

Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, your visits may also include certain tests and ultrasounds. Your doctor should let you know of these in advance. Otherwise, you may find that your prenatal care appointments are over fairly quickly. This is good news; it means everything in your pregnancy is progressing as expected. However, don’t be afraid to speak up if you want more advice and attention during your medical appointments.

The Important Components of Good Prenatal Care

Many types of prenatal care are given by a medical professional — but some of the most important components of prenatal care are your responsibility as an expectant mother. Your doctor can only do so much to protect your health when you are at their office; there are other important components of good prenatal care that you will need to complete on your own.

Prenatal Care: Medical Attention

As mentioned above, all good prenatal care should include prenatal care doctor visits. Only an experienced obstetrician can provide the personalized health guidance you need for your specific pregnancy. Your doctor will evaluate your health history and your personal situation to advise the medical care necessary to keep yourself and your unborn baby safe during the nine months of your pregnancy.

Prenatal Care: Nutrition

During your prenatal care visits, your doctor should provide you a list of foods to eat and foods not to eat during your pregnancy. A healthy diet is important every day of your life, but especially when the food you eat is directly affecting the tiny life growing inside you. You’ll want to make sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and eat in moderation. The well-known phrase “eating for two” is not exactly accurate ; pregnant women only need about 300 more calories per day than they normally would.

You can find a full list of recommended foods and foods to avoid during pregnancy here .

Prenatal Care Vitamins

Another important part of your prenatal care will include your prenatal care vitamins. Your doctor will often let you know which prenatal care pills are advised in your situation, and you can usually obtain these prenatal care vitamins without a prescription.

You can find more information on recommended prenatal care vitamins here .

Prenatal Dental Care

Sometimes, women wonder: Is there particular prenatal dental care I need to adhere to?

In most cases, you will not need to do anything beyond the recommended daily dental hygiene routine . Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Prenatal dental care is incredibly important; any infection you may get in your mouth is more dangerous when you are pregnant, because it can be quickly affect your developing baby if it travels through your bloodstream. Taking the proper precautions and following your dental care routine will be extremely important during this time.

Prenatal Exercise

Finally, one of the most overlooked types of prenatal care is proper exercise. Many women, especially those in their first pregnancies, worry about the effects of exercise on their developing baby. They often under-exercise as a result. However, daily exercise will be incredibly important throughout your pregnancy and will play a huge role in your eventual delivery. Always talk to your doctor about what kind of prenatal exercise they advise in your situation but, in most cases, you should be able to continue light to vigorous exercise through most of your pregnancy — just with a few minor adjustments for comfort.

Remember, your prenatal care doctor visits and your recommended prenatal care checklist will be unique to your pregnancy. You must see an obstetrician to keep yourself and your baby healthy during this time; only they can provide the medical experience you need to find out what is best for you. To learn more about your prenatal care options, please contact a local obstetrician today.

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9 Questions to Ask at Your First Prenatal Appointment

Congratulations, you’re pregnant! You are probably feeling a lot of different things right now– excitement, nervousness, uncertainty, joy, disbelief and just about every other emotion under the sun. When you go to your first appointment (usually at 8 to 10 weeks) you can calm a few of those emotions by having a plan and a list of questions to ask your doctor. You may have your own questions ready, but also consider these nine questions to ask at your first prenatal appointment:

1. What lifestyle changes do I need to make immediately?

Once you learn you are pregnant, you’ll need to change some things about your lifestyle right away. Depending on your habits pre-pregnancy, these changes may seem drastic or they might not be super noticeable. Either way, you will not have a problem making these changes for the good of your child (and your own health while carrying the child, which is top priority).

Here are some things to discuss at the beginning of the pregnancy to avoid possible negative effects:

• Diet: Obviously, alcohol should be cut out immediately. Caffeine should be limited and some other foods should be eliminated (usually deli meat, unpasteurized cheese, certain fish). Your doctor will give you a written list of what to avoid and explain why you should do so. They can also give guidance on what kind of foods and drinks to add or increase in your diet.
• Medication: This is so important because many medications are not safe for use during pregnancy. Both over the counter medications and prescriptions should be looked at as soon as you know you’re pregnant. Working with your doctor, you can decide what is safe to keep taking and at what dosages. And if you need to come off of a certain important medication, they can help you come up with a plan to discontinue use as some are dangerous to discontinue cold turkey. When possible, they may be able to prescribe an alternative.
• Sleep habits: If you aren’t getting the recommended amount of sleep each night, consider changing your sleep habits. Your body will be going through a lot of changes in the coming months, so adequate rest is important. You’ll also want to be well rested before those sleepless newborn nights start.
• Work environment: Ask if your occupation or work environment might pose any risks. Make sure you aren’t exposed to chemicals or toxins that could be harmful. Work with your care team as well as a safety manager at your job.
• Beauty products: If you’re worried about certain beauty products being safe for your baby during pregnancy, check with your doctor. A lot of women are concerned about hair dye, nail polish or treatments (especially chemicals present in some nail salons), sunless tanning lotions, retinols, serums, and essential oils. Your doctor can help steer you in the right direction for making safe choices where these products are concerned. You can also ask about massages or other spa treatments.

2. What things am I at risk for given my personal history?

This is a very important question to ask from the very beginning of your pregnancy. Pregnancy is not an illness by any means, and the human body is built for it. However, pregnancy can still put a lot of stress on your body, especially if you already have a condition that can be worsened.

Chances are if you continue care with your regular OB/GYN your doctor will know most of your medical history. But if you’re using a new doctor due to your pregnancy or for any other reason, you need to be sure they know everything. And it never hurts for a current doctor to go back over and re-check history.

If you have specific concerns your doctor does not address, be sure to speak up. Some common conditions that are important to note include, but aren’t limited to: depression, seizures, high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid issues. Any problems with anesthesia, antibiotics, medication, or surgeries should also be brought to your doctor’s attention.

3. What will the frequency of my appointment be?

In order to have an idea of the big picture of your pregnancy care, talk to your doctor about the base number of prenatal appointments you can expect. They’ll want to schedule the appointments regularly and the frequency will increase the further along you get in your pregnancy. The actual number will depend on your individual needs but in general you can expect to see the doctor more near the due date.

4. What vitamins do I need to take?

If you were actively trying to conceive, then you might have been taking a prenatal vitamin before you got pregnant. But if you got pregnant unexpectedly, or weren’t on a prenatal vitamin, your doctor will recommend you start taking one.  He or she will give you guidance on what to look for in a vitamin if they do not prescribe one or recommend a specific brand.

5. What exercise can/should I be doing?

Staying active during pregnancy is important. If you are fit while you’re pregnant, recovery could be easier depending on how labor goes. Exercise and general fitness can also help you feel better both mentally and physically throughout the pregnancy. Many exercise regimens, excluding extreme examples, are safe as long as you feel physically comfortable. However, you should follow your doctor’s instructions on what kind of exercise is appropriate.

6. How much weight should I gain?

The amount of weight you should gain will depend on how much you weighed before you were pregnant. Your doctor can give you a more precise number or range but generally, women with healthy pre-pregnancy weights should gain 25-30 pounds. Women who are underweight should gain about 40 pounds and overweight women should gain 11 to 20 pounds. These weights can change based on your unique circumstances.

7. What about prenatal testing?

During your pregnancy, certain prenatal screenings are required whereas others may be optional. You can expect to have blood work done in the first and second trimester. You can also expect a test to determine whether or not you have gestational diabetes. Genetic testing is also available. What kind of genetic testing you get or if you decide to get it, is a personal decision and you should talk to your doctor about the risks and what certain results might mean, including false positives.

8. What is normal and what should I call you about? And when should I call 911 or go directly to the hospital?

Speak with your doctor about what is normal or common or when you need to call about problems. Make sure you’re clear on what is “normal” for your stage of pregnancy as you go along. But always err on the side of caution. Also ask the best way to contact your doctor with ask questions (email, phone, online patient portal) and who you should call in certain situations.

You should also know who to call in case of a medical emergency and where you should go. This might change based on how far along in your pregnancy you are.

9. What should I start considering to prepare my birth plan?

It might seem premature to start thinking about your delivery since you’re just at the beginning of your pregnancy, but in reality, the sooner you start talking with your doctor about your options and preferences, the more comfortable you’ll feel when the day gets closer. Some things to discuss with your doctor regarding a birth plan include:

• Birth location: You probably already know which hospital your OB/GYN is affiliated with, but this is still a topic worth discussing. Some people prefer to deliver at birthing centers or at home. If you want to go this route, the sooner your doctor knows, the better so everyone is on the same page.
• Care philosophy: It’s important to know your provider’s views on vaginal labor, C-sections, induced labor, epidurals, delivering without pain medication, etc.
• Who will actually deliver the baby? Will it be the doctor you see for your regular appointments or someone else? As mentioned above, if you’re planning on delivery outside of a hospital, your doctor might not be the one delivering the baby, so midwives or doulas may need to be part of the discussion.

At Green Valley OB/GYN we have extensive experience in managing both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies. And when you’re at the beginning of your pregnancy we know you will have a lot of questions and concerns. Call (336) 378-1110 to make an appointment at our Greensboro office. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and we have an on-call physician available 24/7 in case of emergencies.

Real Experiences, From Real People

This is a very well-run office. I never wait long, the staff is super friendly and my physician is wonderful, very professional, and personable!

I haven’t met a provider that I didn’t absolutely love! During my last pregnancy, I transferred from another OBGYN that I did not care for at all. I couldn’t have picked a better place to put my trust in!

I travel 2800 miles for my visit with Dr. Wein! He is the most thorough, kind, and knowledgeable doctor EVER! No matter your age, you will be in the best hands.

Dr. Callahan and her team are absolutely amazing. I have been her patient for over nine years and drive over an hour to see her because I know I am receiving the very best care. From the time you check-in at Green Valley, to the conversation with the nurses , to your exam, and aftercare — you feel known and valued. I truly cannot say enough about how amazing everyone is. Dr. Callahan has my very highest regard and praise (as do Vlora, Stacy, and Cathy!) They are wonderful. Look no further!

I love seeing Dr. Kendra Ross. She is so friendly and personable yet professional all at the same time. She listens to me and makes sure she’s addressing any concerns or questions I may have. She explains things and has an amazing sense of humor and she always makes me laugh.

After having one GYN provider for so long in NY, Dr.Hovath definitely has made my transition a great one without even knowing. She has made me feel super comfortable and is greatly appreciated. I never cared for female GYN from past bad experiences but I have now found one that as long as she’s is practicing I will be a patient. Too bad no more babies for me! Awesome M.D.

Dr. Clark is an outstanding provider. I have recommended several other ladies to see her. She is always so kind and very personable. Her bedside manner is very professional and caring. She takes her time and seems to really care about your concerns. She also delivered my 2-year-old daughter and was awesome in the delivery room. I highly recommend her.

This place is AMAZING. I cannot stress enough how much I love Green Valley OBGYN. Everyone is so friendly and caring. There’s almost no wait time. I’ve recommended this place to friends and family.

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How Many Prenatal Visits Should I Have?

Feb 28, 2018 9:06:11 AM / by Voyage Healthcare Team posted in Health Tips , Women's Health

If you recently learned that you’re pregnant, congratulations!

You’ll probably be seeing the doctor more often than usual over the next nine months. But how often should you plan to go in?

Here’s a general appointment schedule for uncomplicated pregnancies, broken down by trimester. We’ve also included a list of common prenatal tests and vaccines you’ll want to check off your list before welcoming your baby.

Remember, every pregnancy is different, and this is just a general guide. Ask your doctor if you have questions about your specific prenatal care plan.

1. First Prenatal Visit

Your first prenatal visit usually takes place when you are about 10-12 weeks pregnant  (a pregnancy confirmation visit and possibly an early ultrasound typically occurs between 5-8 weeks).  This appointment is often the longest, and will include a general physical and routine prenatal labs.

You probably have a lot of questions about your pregnancy, and your first prenatal visit is a great time to get a lot of questions answered. What should be on your list to ask? Check out our guide to Making the Most of Your First Prenatal Visit, including 10 Questions You Need to Ask Your Provider.

2. Routine Check-Ups

For uncomplicated pregnancies, you should expect to see your provider every four weeks through 28 weeks.

Between 28 and 36 weeks, expect to see your doctor every two weeks.

From 36 weeks to delivery, expect to see your provider weekly.

Each check up will include a weight check, blood pressure check, and chance to listen to the fetal heartbeat. The fetal heartbeat is usually first detectable with a hand-held doppler between 10 and 12 weeks.

Remember, this is a general guide. You’ll need to see your doctor more frequently if you experience any pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes or a multiple pregnancy.

3. Screenings

In addition to routine check ups, some of your prenatal appointments will include health screenings.

Here’s a list of routine screenings and when they commonly occur.

Anatomy Ultrasound: 20 weeks

You can find out the sex of the baby at this appointment. Wondering what else happens at an anatomy ultrasound? Here’s a breakdown .

Gestational Diabetes and Anemia: between 26 to 28 weeks

Diet and exercise can reduce your risk of gestational diabetes. However, some women still develop gestational diabetes for reasons that doctors do not fully understand. If you develop gestational diabetes, your doctor may recommend treatments ranging from diet adjustments to insulin injections. See this helpful Mayo Clinic guide for more information.

Anemia, or a lack of healthy red blood cells, often develops during pregnancy as your blood volume increases. This deficiency can usually be remedied with iron supplements or vitamins. See this American Pregnancy Association guide for more information.

Tetanus and Diphtheria (Whooping Cough) Vaccine: 28 weeks

Protect your baby by getting the tetanus and diphtheria vaccine.

Remember, even if you’ve had this vaccine administered before, it’s important to get it with each pregnancy so the antibodies have a chance to build up and be passed to your baby.

Rhogam (for “Rh negative” blood types): 28 weeks

If you are Rh negative, you will need a RhoGAM shot at 28 weeks of pregnancy, and 72 hours after delivery. This prevents complications if you are Rh negative and your baby is Rh positive. See this Pregnancy Corner article for more information.

Group Beta Strep: between 35 to 37 weeks

According to the American Pregnancy Association , “25% of all healthy, adult women” test positive for the Group B streptococcus bacteria. Although this is not usually a threat to their health, it can be passed to the baby during delivery and put the baby at risk. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to protect your baby.

Prepare for Your First Prenatal Visit

You probably have a lot of questions for your provider.

Your first prenatal appointment is a perfect time to get these questions answered. Before you go, writing down your questions is a great way to keep track of them and make sure they all get answered.

Wondering what should be included on your list of things to ask? Check out this guide to Making the Most of Your First Prenatal Visit, including 10 Questions You Need to Ask Your Provider.

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Written by Voyage Healthcare Team

Voyage Healthcare is an independently owned, multi-specialty healthcare clinic — guided by the doctors who care for families in the northwest metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

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10 Questions to Ask Your OB/GYN at a Prenatal Visit

Preparing for your first prenatal appointment can be exciting, and chances are good you have a lot of questions. That’s great! Asking questions can help you feel confident and prepared as you embark on your journey to motherhood.

However, the excitement of your first appointment may make it hard to remember all of your questions. Our team at OBGYN Westside, PLLC , on the Upper West Side of New York City, encourages you to make a list of all your questions and bring it with you.

Because each woman is unique, there’s not one specific set of questions to ask, but the list below can get you started.

1. What is my due date?

There are plenty of apps and due date calculators available for free, but not all of them are 100% accurate. Due dates calculators online can be based on your last menstrual period (LMP), your ovulation date, or your conception date. 

Our team provides an estimated due date based on your LMP as well as a dating ultrasound. Less than 5% of women actually deliver on their due date, but knowing your estimated due date can help track pregnancy milestones and time appointments and tests.

2. What supplements do I need?

Maybe you’ve already been taking a prenatal vitamin, or maybe your pregnancy took you by surprise. In either case, our team can recommend the supplements you need. All women benefit from prenatal vitamins and DHA, while some may need additional supplements, including iron tablets, etc. 

3. What symptoms should I expect?

When you arrive for your first prenatal appointment, you may not have many symptoms yet. On the other hand, if you’re already experiencing morning sickness, let us know. Our team can give you a brief overview of common symptoms for your gestational age and tips for managing them.

4. How much weight should I gain this trimester?

Overall recommended weight gain is an average of 25-35lbs with pregnancy, but how much you gain can vary from woman to woman. Your targeted weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), how many babies you’re carrying, and any underlying symptoms or health conditions you may have.

5. Am I considered high-risk?

There are many reasons yours might be considered a high-risk pregnancy . Here are a few factors that may contribute to high-risk status:

• Being over 35 with your first pregnancy 
• Being a teen
• Having diabetes or gestational diabetes 
• Being pregnant with multiples 

Rest assured, our team is experienced and ready to support you whether you have a low-risk or high-risk pregnancy. 

6. What tests do I need?

Throughout your pregnancy, you can count on receiving many different types of tests and ultrasounds, including blood work, diabetes screenings, genetic screening, and more. We will review the whole schedule with you. Our team is always available to explain the results of a test or ultrasound. 

7. What physical limitations do I have?

Staying active and mild to moderate exercise is highly recommended during pregnancy. Exercising during pregnancy boosts your mood and energy levels, tones your muscles, and helps reduce your risk of developing varicose veins. Certain high risk activities, such as horseback riding, are always off-limits during pregnancy, but you may have specific limitations too. For example, if you have placenta previa, you may need to go on pelvic rest.

8. What lifestyle changes do I need to make?

Examples of lifestyle changes that can benefit you include:

• Avoiding smoking and consuming alcohol, reducing caffeine intake
• Removing certain beauty products 
• Changing medications that are contraindicated during pregnancy (only under the direction of a provider!) 

Tip: Bring a list of all of your medications and beauty products (if applicable) to your appointment. 

9. When is my next appointment?

We will see a lot of you! In general, first-trimester appointments are monthly, but the cadence increases as you progress through your pregnancy. We will review with you your schedule your prenatal visits, which may alter depending on what is happening.

10. What is my plan for delivery?

There are many details involved in planning for your delivery. Our team can help shape some of these decisions, including if you’re planning for a vaginal birth, if you need a scheduled C-section, which hospital to visit, when to schedule your hospital tour, and so on. 

Ready to schedule your next prenatal appointment? Give us a call today or book your appointment online .

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17 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby, your body, your partner and the prenatal visit, plus tips for the 17th week of pregnancy.

Fetal growth is a truly amazing thing. During the 17th week of pregnancy, your baby is continuing to grow faster than ever before. S/he may measure as long as 6 inches and weigh up to 7 ounces. All reflexes are in place so your little one can now suck, swallow and blink. Fat is being stored under the skin so good nutrition is important. The heart is pumping vigorously and can pump more than 25 quarts of blood on any given day.

Track your pregnancy

Get expert guidance and personalized insights to stay healthy through every week of your pregnancy.

The uterus now stretches below the belly button by about 2 inches. Remember, fetal growth doesn't occur without some effect on your body. You have probably gained between five and ten pounds at this point, which is common and normal. As your baby grows and gains weight, so will you.

At the prenatal visit

If an amniocentesis was not scheduled in week 16, it may be scheduled this week or next. Discussing the potential risks versus rewards for the amniocentesis is important. Not every doctor will push an expectant mom to have the test done. Remember that even if the doctor is adamant about testing amniotic fluid, you and your partner have the final say.

Your partner

Fetal movements can be felt from the inside but not necessarily through the abdominal tissues on the outside. This can quickly change so as a partner be sure to feel the tummy often. Before long, simple placement of the hand on mom's belly will cause the most memorable moment in life — feeling your baby move!

Tips for this week

This is the prime of pregnancy. The uterus is growing to the point where it is visible to other people and you may feel better than you have in a long time. Shopping, vacationing and just having fun are perfect pastimes for an expectant couple now.

Periods of rapid growth in the uterus require more calories and food, so choose your food wisely. A healthy pregnancy diet includes whole grains, healthy fats, and lots of water. Prenatal vitamins should still be taken every day .

Read More: Week 18 Pregnancy: Week by Week