Pre-natal Care

You should visit the doctor immediately you suspect that you are pregnant. Your healthcare providers will ask lots of questions. They will examine you and take blood and urine samples. At your first prenatal visit you’ll be asked about your Pregnancy History. First, they’ll confirm your pregnancy with a urine test. You’ll be asked the date of your last period started to help set a due date. They’ll ask how many times you’ve been pregnant and if you had any problems like high blood pressure or a baby born too soon (preterm).
At your first prenatal visit, you’ll also be asked about your Health History. They’ll want to know about the health of the baby’s father and both of your close blood relatives. Tell them about all the prescription and over-the-counter medicine you take, any allergies or chronic diseases you have and any surgeries you have had. Be honest about your smoking, drinking, and drug use.
At your first prenatal visit you will have a Physical Exam. The medical provider will:
• weigh you.
• listen to your heart and lungs.
• examine your breasts.
• check inside your vagina (pelvic exam).
• take your blood pressure.
At your first prenatal visit you will have Laboratory Tests. These are some of the most common tests:
• Vaginal tests for sexually transmitted infections.
• Blood sample to check:
o your blood type and Rh factor.
o for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.
o for low red blood cell count (anemia).
o for measles (rubella) and chicken pox (varicella).
• Urine sample to test for sugar and protein (signs of diabetes and infections).
• Urine culture to test for Group B strep and kidney infection.
Your blood type is either positive or negative (Rh factor) For example, A+ or A-. Most women are Rh positive. Doctors like to know the Rh factor so they can prevent any problems, if needed. You may also be asked to take a daily prenatal vitamin. It is a pill with extra iron and 600 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid to help your baby grow.