What happens at prenatal visits?

ARTICLE

4 things your doctor or midwife will do

It’s important to go to all of your doctor or midwife visits when you are pregnant. Your doctor or midwife can help you prepare to take care of yourself and your baby.

You should ask your doctor any questions you have about your body or your baby. Your doctor will also:

1. Ask about your health

It’s important to tell as much as you can about your health. You can talk about your health history, any stress you are feeling and activities during your day.

2. Find out when you will deliver your baby

Your doctor or midwife will tell you your due date. Most women do not deliver on this exact day. You can also find the day by using this chart.

3. Test your blood

Your doctor will check your blood type. A blood test can help your doctor know whether you have enough iron. It can also show whether you have an infection.

4. Look at your body

Your doctor will need to check your vagina and pelvis to make sure your body is healthy.

Sources

All of the information in our Library is evidence-based and backed by information from reputable organizations.

"Pre-Pregnancy Care and Prenatal Care", NIH (National Institute of Health), January 31, 2017

"Prenatal Care," OASH (Office on Women's Health), February 22, 2021

"Methods for Estimating the Due Date," ACOG (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), October 2014 - reaffirmed 2022

Why is pregnancy weight gain necessary?

Your body is growing a baby. That takes extra stuff! Here's why you gain weight:

Fetal growth: The weight helps develop your baby's organs and muscles
Amniotic fluid: Your body makes fluid to protect your baby in the womb
Placenta: This organ gives your baby nutrients and oxygen
Maternal stores: Your body keeps some extra fat for breastfeeding and your health after pregnancy

How much weight should you gain?

It depends on your weight before pregnancy. It also depends on how many babies you’re having. Your healthcare provider can help, but here's a general guide:

For one baby:

If your BMI pre-pregnancy was:	You should gain:
Underweight BMI less than 18.5	28-40 pounds
Normal weight BMI 18.5-24.9	25-35 pounds
Overweight BMI 25.0-29.9	15-25 pounds
Obese BMI 30.0 or more	11-20 pounds

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For two babies:

If your BMI pre-pregnancy was:	You should gain:
Underweight BMI less than 18.5	50-62 pounds
Normal weight BMI 18.5-24.9	37-54 pounds
Overweight BMI 25.0-29.9	31-50 pounds
Obese BMI 30.0 or more	25-42 pounds

Can you gain too much weight?

Gaining too much can be a problem. It can lead to health issues for you and your baby. It can also make labor harder and cause postpartum weight retention.

Tips for healthy pregnancy weight:

Work with your doctor or midwife for personal advice
Include fresh produce, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy
Check with your doctor first before exercising, do activities like walking or yoga
Stay hydrated
Eat smaller meals throughout the day to control appetite
Choose healthy snacks like fruits, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers

Pregnancy weight gain is normal and necessary. Talk to your doctor if you have more questions.

Changes in your body

The second trimester can be easier than the first. Morning sickness usually goes away around this time. As your baby continues to grow, you’ll have new experiences to look forward to.

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Body changes

Your baby bump may start showing. But everyone is different. Some people don’t show at all.
Hormones can cause changes in your skin. These can be color and texture changes.
Your breasts will keep growing. They are getting ready to feed your baby.
Gaining weight over time is normal. It’s also very important. Most people gain about a pound per week.
Hormones can lead to mood swings. Be kind to yourself. Share your feelings.
Forgetfulness is common. Make lists and reminders to help.

Exciting experiences

You may feel tiny flutters of movement from your baby.
Your doctor will check baby's heartbeat.
You may start to feel closer to your baby. Not everyone does. That’s okay too!
You may choose to learn your baby’s sex around week 20.
Start prepping your home and making a birth plan.

Important appointments

Weeks 18-22: The mid-pregnancy ultrasound is done around this time. This is to check baby’s growth.
Weeks 24-28: A “glucose screening test” is done. This checks for gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that can happen in pregnancy).

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The second trimester is exciting! Enjoy the new experiences it brings. Keep attending prenatal visits to stay healthy.

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Preparing for birth

Getting ready for breastfeeding can be exciting! It can also be intimidating, so start with these easy steps:

1. Learn about breastfeeding

Understand the process by reading about breastfeeding. Joining local or virtual classes can also help.

Write down your goals, thoughts and any fears you may have. You can share them with a Pacify Lactation Consultant for support!

2. Get a breast pump

A pump offers flexibility. Pumping means your baby can have your breast milk even when you’re not with them.

Some health insurance plans will send you a breast pump for free. Call to find out.
You may also be able to get one through your local WIC clinic, if you are part of the program.
Talk to your doctor during prenatal visits. They can write you a prescription for a breast pump.

3. Create a supportive environment

Share your breastfeeding plan with your partner, family, and friends. Join support groups and set up the area where you will nurse your baby so you are ready... This supportive environment may help you breastfeed longer.

Sometimes it's helpful to have a friendly face

Pacify experts are here to help you! Go to the home screen in your Pacify app to talk to a care specialist.