Pregnancy is an exciting yet nerve-racking time that leaves you with many questions, especially when it comes to same-day OB prenatal appointments and what to expect in Alexandria. Keep reading for a quick guide on what you need to know about pregnancy care to help put your mind at ease before your visit!
When Is It Time to Schedule My First Prenatal Appointment?
Once you suspect you may be pregnant or have taken a home pregnancy test with a positive result, it’s time to schedule your first prenatal appointment.
Typically, this appointment is scheduled around six to 12 weeks after your last menstrual period. If you have any specific health concerns or medical conditions though, you may wish to see a healthcare provider earlier to discuss your pregnancy and plan appropriate care.
How Do I Prepare for My Same-Day OB Prenatal Appointment?
To prepare for your prenatal appointment, gather all information pertaining to your medical history, including information about previous pregnancies, past surgeries, health conditions you have, and medications/supplements you’re taking.
Make a list of questions you may have about your pregnancy, prenatal care, and any lifestyle changes you should consider.
What Do I Do If I Experience Pain or Bleeding?
If you experience pain, severe cramping, or heavy vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, it’s essential to contact your doctor immediately and book a same-day visit. These symptoms could indicate a potential complication, such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, and require prompt evaluation.
If your OB/GYN is unavailable, don’t hesitate to visit the emergency room until you can see your regular practitioner. Your provider may even recommend you go straight to the hospital depending on your symptoms.
What Is Usually Done at My First Appointment?
Learning more about same-day OB prenatal appointments and what to expect in Alexandria can help you feel less anxious and allow you to walk into your doctor’s office with confidence.
During your first visit, your provider will perform a comprehensive evaluation to establish a baseline for your pregnancy care. They will review your medical history, discuss any concerns or symptoms you may have, and conduct a physical examination.
This physical examination may include breast and pelvic exams to check the health of your reproductive organs.
Your provider may also order blood and urine tests to confirm the pregnancy, check your blood type and Rh factor, and screen for certain infections. They might recommend genetic screening tests or offer information about non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) options.
Will I Receive an Ultrasound on My First Visit?
While it is common to have an ultrasound during the first trimester, it may not happen on the same day of your first visit. The timing of the first ultrasound depends on factors such as the accuracy of your last menstrual period and the reason for the ultrasound.
Some healthcare practitioners may perform an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and assess the gestational age, while others may schedule it for a later date.
What Type of Provider Will I See at My Same-Day OB Prenatal Appointments?
You will typically see an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) for your prenatal care. OB/GYNs are medical doctors who specialize in women’s reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth. They have the expertise to provide comprehensive prenatal care, monitor the health of both the mother and baby, and manage any related issues.
Will My OB/GYN Be the One to Deliver My Baby?
In most cases, your OB/GYN will be the one to deliver your baby if you choose to have a hospital birth if they have admitting privileges at the hospital where you plan to give birth.
There are some instances when your OB/GYN may not be available, such as if they are on vacation or attending to other medical responsibilities. In such cases, another OB/GYN from the same practice or an on-call OB/GYN at the hospital may assist with your delivery.
If you plan to have a home birth or use the services of a midwife, your delivery will be overseen by the midwife or a certified nurse-midwife in conjunction with your doctor if they are available.
What Will the Scheduling for the Rest of My Pregnancy Look Like?
After your first appointment, your healthcare provider will establish a schedule for your prenatal visits. In the initial stages of pregnancy, you will likely have monthly appointments to monitor your health and progress, as well as the baby’s health and progress.
As you move into the second and third trimesters, the frequency of appointments increases to every two weeks and then weekly as your due date approaches.
Your provider will conduct routine checks, including measuring your belly, checking the baby’s heartbeat, and monitoring your blood pressure and weight. They will also discuss your overall well-being, provide guidance on prenatal nutrition and exercise, and address any concerns you may have.
Throughout your pregnancy, your care team will work with you to ensure a healthy and smooth journey for both you and your baby. Regular prenatal care is essential for monitoring your baby’s development, identifying any potential issues early on, and ensuring a positive and safe pregnancy experience.
Learn More About Same-Day OB Prenatal Appointments and What to Expect in Alexandria at Women’s HealthCare Specialists
Take the guesswork out of your prenatal care with answers and help from Dr. Navita Modi, our board-certified OB/GYN who specializes in advanced technologies and care! Schedule your same-day visit today by calling 301-812-3400!
