So, you just found out that you’re pregnant. Congratulations! Now it’s time for a first prenatal care visit to get started right on your way to a healthy baby.
This will be one of the longer visits during your pregnancy because you have questions and so does your health care provider. They’ll want to know about your:
- Menstrual cycle
- Gynecological history and any past pregnancies
- Personal and family medical history
- Exposure to potentially toxic substances
- Medication use, including prescription and over-the-counter medications or supplements
- Use of tobacco, alcohol and caffeine
You’ll have a physical exam to check blood pressure, measure your weight and height, and calculate your body mass index to determine the recommended weight gain you need for a healthy pregnancy. You might also have blood drawn to test for Rh factor, anemia or exposure to sexually transmitted infections.
To estimate your due date, your health care provider will use the date your last period started, add seven days and count back three months. The due date will be about 40 weeks from the first day of your last period.
This first prenatal care visit is also the time for you to ask questions about exercise, sex, dental care, vaccinations and travel during pregnancy, as well as other lifestyle issues. You might also talk about your work environment and any potential risks associated with it. If you smoke, ask your health care provider for suggestions to help you quit.
In addition to discussing your questions or concerns you should also find out how to reach your health care provider between appointments. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that help is always there for you.
If you’re in southeast Michigan you can schedule your first prenatal care visit with Northline Women’s Health Center at our offices in Brownstown or Southgate.
