During your pregnancy, you’ll have regular prenatal appointments. At these appointments, your doctor will monitor your pregnancy to make sure that you and your baby are healthy. Here are some of the key things you’ll learn about your baby at your prenatal appointments.

HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD VISIT

Every pregnancy is different, and your doctor will determine the schedule that is best for you. It’s really important that you attend all prenatal appointments and follow the schedule set by your doctor.

HOW MUCH WEIGHT SHOULD YOU GAIN?

Your doctor will weigh you at each appointment to make sure you’re gaining the right amount of weight for your pregnancy. Gaining the right amount of weight is important for your health and your baby’s health.

HOW MUCH WILL YOUR BABY WEIGH?

Your doctor will use an ultrasound and measure your baby bump to estimate your baby’s birth weight. It’s important that your baby has a healthy birth weight. A heavy baby can make for a difficult delivery, while an underweight baby is more likely to be born prematurely. Babies born with low birth weight may become sick during their first week, develop infections, or have long-term health complications.

WHAT IS LOW BIRTHWEIGHT?

Your doctor may tell you about the dangers of low birth weight and what you can do to reduce your risk of having a baby with a low birth weight. Maintaining a healthy diet and not smoking cigarettes are ways you can reduce your risk of giving birth to a baby with low birth weight. It’s important to talk to your doctor and follow their advice to make sure your baby is as healthy as possible.

WHAT DOES YOUR BABY’S HEARTBEAT SOUND LIKE?

At around 10-12 weeks, you’ll be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat at your prenatal appointments. Listening to your baby’s heartbeat lets your doctor check if your baby is healthy and ensure there aren’t any signs of heart problems.

WHEN IS YOUR DUE DATE?

During your first trimester, your doctor will estimate your due date. Knowing your due date helps your doctor track your baby’s growth and make sure your baby is developing healthily.

WHAT IS YOUR BABY’S SEX?

Your doctor will be able to tell you your baby’s sex during your mid-pregnancy ultrasound, which is usually between 16-20 weeks.

Your doctor will give you a lot of important information at each prenatal care appointment. It can be difficult to keep track of all the information, so don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to repeat something or to explain it in more detail. The most important thing is that you keep scheduling and attending your appointments so you and your baby can be healthy.