What should you expect from your first OBGYN visit? If this is your first pregnancy, take a look at what you need to know about your first prenatal doctor's office appointment.
Will Need to See the OB Immediately?
You missed a period and took a pregnancy test. Do you need to see the OB immediately after you get a positive result? While you might want to schedule an appointment ASAP, it's not likely the doctor will need to see you right away.
Call your doctor after you get a positive pregnancy test result. Provided you aren't high risk or there are no other health-related concerns, the doctor may wait until you're somewhere near eight-weeks pregnant to schedule the first prenatal check-up.
Should You Wait to Schedule Your First Prenatal Visit?
Even though you might not need to see the OB immediately, you can schedule the appointment as soon as you find out you're pregnant. Contact the doctor's office to ask when the OB will want you to come in for a check-up—and schedule the appointment. The sooner you schedule your first visit, the more likely it is you'll get an appointment that fits into your schedule.
Do You Need to Bring Anything Special to Your First Visit?
Ask the doctor's office staff what you should bring to the first prenatal visit. In general, most OB offices will need to see an insurance card and ID (such as a driver's license). If you have a co-pay, you will also need to bring an accepted form of payment.
What Happens at the First Prenatal Appointment?
The first prenatal gynecologist visit may seem like a longer version of your annual exam. If you're new to the practice, the doctor will need a full medical history. This includes information on pre-existing medical conditions, medications you take regularly (prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal), hospitalizations, allergies, and your familial medical history. The doctor will also need to know when your last period started/ended and any other gynecological information or health history.
Along with a health history, the OB will also ask about lifestyle factors or issues. These include whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other substances. The OB may also want to know how much physical activity you get or how regularly you exercise.
Your doctor will also need to perform a physical exam and some diagnostic tests. These may include a pap test, a pregnancy test (urine and blood), STD tests, and a blood type test. You may also need a prenatal ultrasound. While you won't get a good picture of your baby yet, the doctor can use this test to determine how far along you are.
The first prenatal check-up is also the perfect time to talk to your OB about the pregnancy and any concerns. Come prepared with a list of questions for the doctor to help you answer.
