Spring has a way of reminding us that growth is happening all around us. Trees begin to bud. Birds build nests. Baby animals make their first appearances. And for many families, spring’s sense of newness mirrors something more deeply personal: the beginning of pregnancy.
If you’ve just found out you’re expecting, you may be feeling a mix of excitement, curiosity, and nerves. That is completely normal. Your first prenatal visit is an important step in caring for both you and your growing baby, and it is also a chance to ask questions, get oriented, and begin building a relationship with your care team. Here’s what you can expect.
Your pregnancy confirmation visit
Before your first prenatal OB visit, our team confirms your pregnancy at 8 weeks. This pregnancy confirmation visit includes an ultrasound, a review of current medications, and a nutrition consult. You will learn about your genetic screening options.
What to expect at your first OB appointment
Your first prenatal OB appointment is at 12 weeks and is often one of the longest visits of pregnancy because it lays the foundation for the months ahead. Your provider will discuss your estimated due date, what prenatal care will look like going forward, and how your baby is developing in these early weeks.
This visit will include:
- An in-depth review of your health history, medications and supplements, and discussion about whether you’d like genetic screening tests
- With you, we listen to your baby’s heartbeat with the doppler (we’re excited right along with you)
- Lab work: Blood and urine testing to check things like blood type, iron levels, immunity, and overall health
- A full physical exam
- Discussion about your physical and mental health, and next steps. Nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, food aversions, and emotional ups and downs are all common early pregnancy experiences. Your provider can help you understand what is normal and what deserves a call.
Questions to ask at your first prenatal visit
It can be hard to remember everything once you are in the room, so bringing a short list of questions can help. Here are some good ones to start with:
- How far along am I, and what is my due date? This helps guide the timing of future visits, tests, and ultrasounds.
- What symptoms are normal in early pregnancy? Ask what to expect and when symptoms like nausea, cramping, or fatigue should prompt a call.
- Are the medications and supplements I take safe in pregnancy? This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.
- What prenatal vitamin should I be taking? Your provider can help confirm you are getting the right nutrients, including folic acid and iron.
- What foods, drinks, or activities should I avoid? This is a good time to ask about caffeine, exercise, lifting, travel, hot tubs, alcohol, and foods to be cautious about.
- When should I call the office? Knowing what symptoms are urgent can give you peace of mind.
- What testing or screenings will I be offered? Your provider can walk you through genetic screening options and the general prenatal timeline.
- How often will I come in during pregnancy? Understanding the rhythm of prenatal care can help you plan ahead.
- Who will I see for my prenatal visits and delivery? This is especially helpful in some of our larger practices where you may meet multiple providers.
- What can I do now to support a healthy pregnancy? From sleep and nutrition to movement and stress management, small steps can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Whether this is your first pregnancy or your first pregnancy after a long road getting here, it is okay to come in with questions, emotions, and uncertainty. That is what prenatal care is for. This first visit is about getting started and understanding your next steps. Our team is here to help guide you, answer your questions, and care for you every step of the way.
Our team is here for you, preconception to labor and delivery. Learn more about our services at premierwomenshealthmn.com
This content was review by OBGYN physician Taryn McEvoy, MD, and women’s health nurse practitioner Bethany Hjelle, WHNP-BC. They see women at Premier Women’s Health – Oakdale OBGYN.