Early and regular prenatal care supports the health of the pregnant patient and developing baby. The schedule and tests should be tailored to medical history, pregnancy risk and individual needs.
The first consultation
The first visit usually reviews the date of the last menstrual period, past pregnancies, medical and surgical history, medicines, allergies, vaccinations, family history and current symptoms.
Depending on gestation and clinical needs, the visit may include examination, blood pressure, laboratory tests, screening discussions and ultrasound planning.
Tailored prenatal care
Not every pregnancy needs the same visit schedule. Additional monitoring may be advised for hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease, multiple pregnancy, previous pregnancy complications, age-related risk or concerns about fetal growth.
Some counselling can be delivered remotely, but examinations, blood tests, ultrasound and specific assessments require in-person care.
Questions worth asking
Ask about supplements, safe exercise, nutrition, travel, vaccination, medicines, genetic screening, ultrasound timing, warning signs and how to contact the clinical team between visits.
Preparing for each visit
Keep reports together, note symptoms and questions, and bring glucose or blood-pressure records if requested. Tell the clinician promptly about new medicines, emergency visits or significant symptoms.