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Prenatal Checkups - 1st Trimester
Typically, you will stop by the doctor's office around the eighth week for your first prenatal checkup. Often, the doctor or midwife will ask about your medical history, so come prepared and don't hold back important information. Your health should take precedence over privacy at this stage.
You'll be asked about your last menstrual period to determine the due date. You will be asked about any problems you're experiencing, past gynecological issues, and the details of any former pregnancies.
Try to learn as much as you can about your family's health history. Ask relatives to fill in details you're lacking.
Likely, you will be offered screening tests to gain information about your baby's risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal problems and birth defects.
Common Tests
Blood tests: These are among the most important reasons to get a first-trimester checkup. They can reveal your blood type and Rh factor to make sure there are no incompatibility worries with the baby. They also screen for antibodies. If you are Rh negative, meaning you lack a certain protein in your hemoglobin, you'll probably get a shot of Rh immune globulin. Your blood count will be monitored, you'll be checked for rubella and chicken-pox immunity, as well as hepatitis B.
HIV test: All pregnant women should get this test. If you test positive, treatment can dramatically reduce the chances you'll pass the disease to your child.
Syphilis screen: These days, this sexually transmitted disease is rare, but it's extremely dangerous to unborn babies. In the unlikely event you test positive, you will receive antibiotics.
Urine tests: Peeing into a cup can help rule out bladder infections and other abnormalities. You'll be given a blood-sugar test to check for gestational diabetes. If you carry excess protein in your urine, it can signal a urinary tract infection. If you are losing weight or experiencing major nausea, your doctor may check for ketones.
Chlanydria and gonorrhea screening: All pregnant women should get this test. If you test positive, you and your partner will receive antibiotics.
Pap smear: Most women will have a pap smear performed unless one was done recently.
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