Health For Pregnancy: What to Expect When You're Expecting
Once you find out that you are indeed pregnant, there are some things that you will need to do. First of all, you should make an appointment at your gynecologist and have your pregnancy confirmed. In many doctors office's they can immediately confirm your pregnancy. Then you should schedule a follow up appointment or contact a midwife for your prenatal care.
At his appointment the medical professional will take a complete history of the mother and father. This is done to be sure precautionary measures are taken if needed. You will need to tell him or her of other pregnancies and the results of them. For instance, full term vaginal delivery, caesarian section, low birth weight, gestational diabetes, premature delivery and so on. This is also a great time for you to ask any questions you might have.
If your appointment isn't for a couple of weeks or so, this can give you some time to write down some questions and concerns to ask the doctor. This can be very useful if it is your first pregnancy. Many expecting mothers do not remember questions they wanted to ask once they get to the office. So, having them written down can help to ensure all of your questions have answers before you leave from your appointment. You might also want to write down some of your family history as well. This can assist you when you are trying to answer some of the questions you are asked. Usually, before you leave from this visit you will need to set up a follow-up appointment.
More than likely, you were given a prescription for prenatal vitamins. It is very important for you to take these as directed. This will help your growing child to get the essential vitamins he or she needs to develop and remain healthy. Sometimes, a pregnant woman can not take the prenatal vitamins, if you find you are unable to take them, immediately notify your prenatal health care provider. He or she can change the dosage or even find an alternative method for you to get the essential vitamins. Soon, you should be getting your appointment for an ultrasound.
Your first view of your unborn child is an ultrasound. This is usually done around 20 weeks. If you choose and the baby cooperates, you can at this time find out if you are having a boy or a girl. Do not be overly concerned if you are scheduled for your first ultrasound before the 20 weeks. Many doctors prefer to have them done early to be safe. An ultrasound can show if the baby is growing properly, and inform the doctor of any possible issues that should be looked at a little closer.
Another test you will more than likely be asked to take part in is a blood test. For this you will be instructed to drink a liquid. About three hours or so after you have consumed this drink, your blood will be drawn and analyzed. This is done to determine if you have or can have gestational diabetes.
In the beginning of your pregnancy you will more than likely only meet with your prenatal care provider about every 4 weeks. This will change as your gestation nears its end. At around 36 weeks you will then begin going to the office in two week intervals, then one week. You can expect to go once a week until you deliver your new bundle of joy.
