What to Expect at Your First Prenatal Appointment

So you had a positive pregnancy test and you’re wondering what to do next. 

Whether you are feeling happy, nervous, excited, scared, or all of the above, the next step is to call your doctor or a pregnancy clinic. 

You are calling your doctor or pregnancy clinic because you need to start prenatal care.

Call NOW. 

You do not need to wait for pregnancy symptoms or for your belly to grow or for the baby’s first kick. Just call and set the appointment. Most likely may be asked to wait for a few weeks before an appointment but it is very important that you make the call so you can get an appointment as soon as possible so you can start prenatal care.

What is Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is the healthcare you receive while you are pregnant. These visits help make sure you and your baby are doing well.

Prenatal care reduces risk of pregnancy complications for you and reduces complications for your growing baby. 

If you have never been to a prenatal appointment before, you may wonder what will happen. Here is what you can expect.

When Should You Make Your First Appointment?

Call a prenatal care provider as soon as you know you are pregnant.

Many women have their first visit when they are about 8 to 10 weeks pregnant. Your provider may want to see you sooner if you have health problems, pain, bleeding, or problems during a past pregnancy.

Do not wait on insurance or money before calling. If insurance and money for your appointment is something that is causing you worry, tell your doctor, nurse, or midwife. There may be programs that can help you get prenatal care at little or no cost.

What happens during a Prenatal Appointment

At your first visit, your healthcare provider will want to learn about you.

They may ask:

  • When was the first day of your last period?
  • Have you been pregnant before?
  • Do you have any health problems?
  • Do you take any medicines?
  • Do you have any allergies?
  • Have you had any surgeries?
  • Do you smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs?
  • Do you have enough food at home?
  • Do you have a safe place to live?
  • Do you have transportation to appointments?

Try to answer these questions as honestly as you can. Your healthcare team is there to help you, not judge you.

If you need help with food, transportation, housing, health insurance, or other needs, tell your doctor, nurse, or midwife. They may be able to connect you with programs in your community.

You Will Have Some Basic Health Checks

Your healthcare team will usually check your:

  • Weight
  • Blood pressure
  • Heart rate
  • Overall health

You may also have a physical exam.

These checks help your provider learn more about your health and watch for problems that could affect your pregnancy.

You May Have Blood and Urine Tests

Your provider will probably ask you to give a blood sample and a urine sample.

These tests can check for things like:

  • Your blood type
  • Low iron, also called anemia
  • Certain infections
  • Signs of diabetes or other health problems
  • Urinary tract infections

These tests are a normal part of pregnancy care.

You May Have an Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of your baby.

Some women have an ultrasound at their first appointment. Others have one later.

An ultrasound can help your provider learn:

  • How far along you are
  • Your baby’s due date
  • Whether you are carrying one baby or more
  • How the pregnancy is developing

Do not worry if you do not get an ultrasound during your first visit. Every pregnancy and every doctor’s office is different.

You Will Talk About Prenatal Vitamins

Your provider will probably tell you to take a prenatal vitamin every day.

Prenatal vitamins contain vitamins and minerals that you and your baby need. One important vitamin is folic acid. Folic acid helps your baby’s brain and spine develop.

If you cannot afford prenatal vitamins, tell your healthcare provider. There may be programs that can help.

You Can Ask Questions

Your first appointment is a good time to ask anything you are worried about.

You may want to ask:

  • What foods should I eat?
  • What foods should I avoid?
  • Can I exercise?
  • Can I keep working?
  • Are my medicines safe?
  • What vitamins should I take?
  • When is my baby due?
  • How often should I come back?
  • Who do I call if I have a problem?

Write your questions down before your visit so you do not forget them.

What Should You Bring?

If you have them, bring:

  • Your photo ID
  • Your insurance card
  • A list of medicines you take
  • Information about past pregnancies
  • Any medical records you have
  • A list of your questions

Do not skip your appointment if you do not have all of these things. Call the office and ask what you need.

What If You Do Not Have Insurance?

You still have options.

Ask about Medicaid for pregnant women, WIC, community health centers, county health departments, and local pregnancy support programs.

WIC can help many pregnant women get healthy foods, nutrition information, breastfeeding support, and other services.

A clinic or community organization may also be able to help you apply for health coverage.

Getting Care Early Matters

You do not have to go through pregnancy alone.

Prenatal care gives you a place to ask questions, learn what your baby needs, and get help when you need it.

Keep going to your prenatal appointments even if you feel fine. Many pregnancy problems do not have symptoms at first.

Every visit is another chance to take care of yourself and your baby.

If you think you may be pregnant, make your first prenatal appointment today. Getting care early can help you and your baby have a healthier start.

This information is for education only. Talk with a healthcare provider about your own pregnancy and medical needs.