You’ve learned the big news and now know you’re pregnant! Congratulations, on the very important news about the precious human you are now growing inside of you. There are many questions about how to care for not only yourself but also your growing baby. It’s very important to pick out an Obstetrician, also known as an "OB/GYN", if you haven’t already done so. You’ll be seeing this doctor frequently through the delivery of your new baby.
How often should you see the doctor? What do you need to ask? What are they going to ask you? Is it really true that you can’t eat sushi while pregnant? You are going to find out the answers to all of those questions and more now!
The Timing of Doctor's Appointments
- First Trimester: A New Beginning
The incredible journey begins once you find out you are pregnant. In the first 1 – 12 weeks of a pregnancy you are considered to be in your first trimester. You should have an appointment by the 8th week. This gives the fetus enough time to develop and ultimately confirm the pregnancy, address initial questions & concerns and finally estimate your due date.
Questions to Ask:
- What lifestyle changes, if any, should I be making to ensure my baby grows in the healthiest manger.
- Do I need to take prenatal vitamins and/or change medications that I am taking?
- What can I do to manage pregnancy symptoms and changes, such as morning sickness?
- Second Trimester: The Honeymoon Period
Weeks 13-27, the second trimester, are often called the "honeymoon period." This is because in the second trimester women experience fewer symptoms such as morning sickness, but are also not to the point of pregnancy where their size fully inhibits mobility or comfort. Plus, for those that want to know the gender of their baby, they usually have the opportunity to learn that at approximately weeks 16-20 via ultrasound.
Questions to Ask:
- Are there any indications of potential complications?
- How should I be exercising to ensure both mother and child are health?
- What are the recommended exercises to keep me and the baby healthy?
- Do I need to modify travel or other activities?
- Third Trimester: The Home Stretch
As you continue to grow and reach the week 20 mark, you’ve officially hit the third trimester. You start seeing your obstetrician more frequently, at about every two weeks. Then once you hit week 36, you’ll start seeing your doctor weekly. The baby is imminent at this point and it’s imperative that you coordinate closely with your doctor to ensure a smooth delivery.
Questions to Ask:
- How do I know when I am in labor?
- Do I want a "natural" childbirth? What options are available to manage pain during delivery?
- Do I need a C section?
- Do I have a plan for going to the hospital and leaving the hospital? What's the birth
- Postpartum:
- What can I expect in the days and weeks following birth?
- Are there any resources for breastfeeding support?
- Am I ready to pump breastmilk if needed?
Even though pregnancy may be new to you, it’s most certainly not to your obstetrician. He or she is a wealth of knowledge and insight that can help alleviate concerns and anxiety, set expectations for the pregnancy process and ensure all measures are being taken to deliver the healthiest baby possible.
