What happens at prenatal visits?

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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.

Staying healthy

Discovering you're pregnant is a big moment. It can be filled with emotions and questions. It's also the start of an amazing journey. What should you do next? This guide will help you plan the early steps of pregnancy.

1. Find a doctor or midwife

Your first step is to find a doctor or midwife you trust. Schedule your first prenatal appointment to discuss your medical history. This sets the foundation for your pregnancy care. Find a new doctor or midwife if you don’t like yours.

2. Start taking a prenatal vitamin

Ask your doctor or midwife which prenatal vitamin is right for you. These have vital nutrients to support your baby’s growth. Always ask your doctor or midwife before adding supplements to your diet.

3. Review lifestyle habits

Use this time to consider your lifestyle. Make changes where you need to. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol. Both can harm your baby. Talk to your doctor or midwife if you’re having trouble.

4. Find a doula

A doula can support you during pregnancy and labor. They can prepare you for the birth. They can also help you stay calm during labor. Find a doula who makes you feel safe and aligns with your birth plan.

5. Consider exercising

Exercise during pregnancy has many benefits. It can help you sleep and feel better. It can also help you labor quickly. Ask your doctor or midwife before working out during pregnancy. If they say yes, aim for 30 minutes a day. You can break this up through the day. Safe activities are walking, swimming, yoga, or light weight-lifting. Talk to your doctor or midwife about what’s safe for you.

6. Upgrade your diet

Focus on a balanced diet. Fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains are great. Discuss any specific dietary needs with your doctor or midwife.

7. Review medications & supplements

Ask your doctor or midwife about current medications. These may not be safe during pregnancy. They can change your treatment if necessary.

8. Seek emotional support

Pregnancy is emotional. It's normal to have fears and questions. Seek support when you need to. Friends, family, or a therapist can help. Your emotional well-being is crucial.

These steps lay the groundwork for a healthy pregnancy. Remember, every pregnancy is unique. Your healthcare provider is your guide, so ask questions and share your concerns.

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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Sometimes it's helpful to have a friendly face

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