The first appointment of your pregnancy is called a confirmation visit. This is a quick visit to confirm the pregnancy and ensure you are off to a good start while we evaluate your general health and assess any risk factors for a hi-risk pregnancy.

You will be started on prenatal vitamins and directed to return to the office for your first OB appointment which is scheduled approximately 8 weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period. This office visit is extensive and we recommend you allow at least an hour. You will be asked to complete several forms which will address your health, your family and obstetric history.

This is what you can expect at this visit:
***a thorough exam with baseline vitals and weight
***pap smear, cultures and blood work
***urine sample to evaluate nutrition and presence of bacteria
***schedule an ultrasound
***you will receive an obstetrics “goodie bag” filled with free samples
*** calculation of due date as this will help chart your return visits

12 weeks
***weight check and vitals checked
***urine assessment
***checking for baby’s heartbeat!!!

16 weeks
***weight check and vitals checked
***urine assessment
***checking on baby’s heartbeat
***AFP Tetra test

20 weeks
***weight/ vitals/urine checked
***baby’s heartbeat
***ultrasound
***review of the AFP test and any questions you have
***you may feel the baby move by this visit!!

24 weeks
*** fetal measurements with a tape measure to your belly!
*** weight/vitals/urine checked
***check out the Henrico Doctor’s Hospital website for prenatal classes such as: sibling classes, labor and delivery tours and childbirth classes
***start thinking about a pediatrician

28 weeks
*** gestational diabetes screening test
***weight/vitals/urine checked
***baby’s heartbeat

31 weeks
***you may be feeling some pre-labor contractions
***weight/vitals/urine checked
***fetal measurements and heartbeat

34 weeks
***same as the 31 week check

36 weeks
***above checks
***vaginal swab to check for GBS or Group Beta Strep.
***assessment of cervix to check for dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning)

37 weeks until your baby’s BIRTHDAY!!!
*** from here on the weekly office visits will continue with the assessment of fetal well-being and monitoring your contraction patterns and cervix readiness for labor.

Post-partum visit is typically 4 weeks after the baby arrives. Please call us to make your appointment and feel free to bring the baby! We have a wonderful baby photo gallery and because you are special, would welcome including your newborn!

Come by our new office or call for an office appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!