Congratulations! Whether you’ve already taken a pregnancy test or are waiting for confirmation, your first prenatal doctor visit is an exciting milestone.
Many moms-to-be feel a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and curiosity—when scheduling their first appointment. You might be wondering:
- When should I see a doctor?
- What tests will they do?
- How do I prepare for my first prenatal visit?
This post will answer all your questions and help you feel confident about your first trip to the doctor!
1️⃣ When Should You Schedule Your First Prenatal Visit?
Most doctors recommend scheduling your first prenatal appointment around weeks 6-8 of pregnancy. However, if you have a history of miscarriage, medical conditions, or unusual symptoms (such as heavy bleeding or severe pain), you may need to see a doctor earlier.
How to Schedule Your Appointment
📌 If you have an OB-GYN or midwife, call their office and let them know you’re newly pregnant.
📌 If you don’t have a doctor yet, check with your insurance provider or look for a highly-rated prenatal clinic near you.
2️⃣ What Happens at Your First Prenatal Appointment?
Your first doctor’s visit will be one of the longest and most important appointments during your pregnancy. Here’s what to expect:
🩺 Medical History Review
Your doctor will ask about:
✔️ Your last menstrual period (LMP) to estimate your due date
✔️ Any previous pregnancies or miscarriages
✔️ Your medical conditions, allergies, and medications
✔️ Your family health history (genetic conditions, diabetes, hypertension, etc.)
📌 Tip: Be honest about your lifestyle (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol) so your doctor can give the best advice!
🩸 Blood Tests & Lab Work
Your doctor may order several tests, including:
✔️ Blood Type & Rh Factor Test – Determines if your blood type is A, B, AB, or O and whether you’re Rh-positive or Rh-negative.
✔️ hCG (Pregnancy Hormone) Levels – Confirms a healthy pregnancy.
✔️ Iron & Hemoglobin Test – Checks for anemia.
✔️ STD Screening – Tests for infections like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.
✔️ Thyroid Function Test – Ensures normal thyroid hormone levels.
📌 Tip: If you have a fear of needles, bring a snack or a loved one for support.
🦠 Urine Test
Your doctor may ask for a urine sample to check:
✔️ hCG levels (pregnancy hormone)
✔️ Protein & Sugar levels (to screen for early signs of gestational diabetes)
✔️ Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
🩻 Ultrasound (May Vary by Doctor)
Many doctors will perform a first ultrasound around 6-8 weeks to:
👶 Confirm the pregnancy and check the baby’s development
🫀 Check for a heartbeat (usually visible around week 6-7)
📍 Determine if it’s a single baby or twins
📌 Tip: If your doctor doesn’t do an early ultrasound, don’t worry! Your first official dating ultrasound is usually done around week 8-12.
⚖️ Physical Exam & Weight Check
Your doctor may also:
✔️ Check your weight & blood pressure (important for monitoring throughout pregnancy)
✔️ Do a pelvic exam (to check your uterus & cervix)
✔️ Perform a Pap smear (if you haven’t had one recently)
📌 Tip: Some women feel nervous about the pelvic exam, but it’s quick and helps detect any early complications.
3️⃣ Questions to Ask at Your First Doctor’s Visit
It’s important to ask questions to feel informed and confident about your pregnancy. Here are some great ones to bring up:
📍 Pregnancy & Health
✔️ What foods should I avoid?
✔️ What medications are safe during pregnancy?
✔️ How much weight should I gain?
✔️ What vitamins and supplements do I need?
📍 Lifestyle & Safety
✔️ Can I still drink coffee?
✔️ What exercises are safe for me?
✔️ Is it okay to have sex during pregnancy?
✔️ Are there any risks with my job or environment?
📍 Planning & Next Steps
✔️ When is my due date?
✔️ When should I schedule my next ultrasound?
✔️ How often will I have check-ups?
📌 Tip: Write down your questions before the visit so you don’t forget anything!
4️⃣ What Happens After Your First Visit?
After your first appointment, your doctor will:
✔️ Confirm your due date based on your last period or ultrasound.
✔️ Give you a pregnancy booklet or guide.
✔️ Schedule your next prenatal visit, usually at 10-12 weeks.
📌 Tip: Start a pregnancy journal to track your symptoms, questions, and milestones!
5️⃣ How to Prepare for Your First Prenatal Visit
🔹 Drink plenty of water before your appointment (for urine tests & ultrasound).
🔹 Bring a list of medications & supplements you take.
🔹 Write down important dates (last period, ovulation, symptoms).
🔹 Wear comfortable clothes (for any exams or tests).
🔹 Bring your partner or a friend for support (optional).
6️⃣ What If My First Prenatal Visit is Virtual?
Some doctors offer telehealth appointments for early pregnancy. In this case, they may:
📌 Review your medical history & symptoms
📌 Discuss prenatal vitamins & diet
📌 Order blood tests at a nearby lab
📌 Schedule your first in-person ultrasound later
📌 Tip: If you have a virtual visit, keep a notebook handy to write down advice from your doctor.
Conclusion
Your first prenatal visit is an important step in your pregnancy journey! While it may feel overwhelming, it’s a great opportunity to ask questions, confirm your pregnancy, and ensure a healthy start for you and your baby.
