Doctor’s Appointments in your 1st, 2nd and 3rd Trimester

Sometimes going to the doctor’s office can be intimidating, especially if you’re a first-time mom. To alleviate some of these fears let’s go over what to expect during healthcare visits in your first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy.

How often will I have to see my healthcare provider?

The answer to this question will likely depend on your pregnancy. For a “low-risk” pregnancy it’s common to see your doctor every four weeks during your first and second trimesters. During your third trimester you’ll likely be scheduled with your doctor every 2-4 weeks, and then every week once you reach week 37 of pregnancy.

In addition to your prenatal appointments, you will also be offered prenatal ultrasounds. Most low-risk pregnancies get two ultrasounds during the course of the pregnancy. One ultrasound is performed at roughly week 7-12 to help determine your due date, and another ultrasound is performed at roughly week 20 to check on the baby’s growth and anatomy.

If you are considered a high-risk pregnancy, you will likely have to see your healthcare provider more regularly. How often will depend on your and your baby’s health.

What happens during my first trimester appointments?

On your very first appointment you can expect your doctor to ask you about your medical and pregnancy history. Be honest about your health history so that your doctor can provide the best advice. In addition to discussions about your health history, your doctor will provide guidance and instruction on how to have a healthy pregnancy.

Your doctor will likely also offer blood work. The blood work can provide helpful information such as your blood type and your exposure and immunity to certain infections.

What happens during my second trimester appointments?

Your second trimester appointments may be similar to your first. You will likely be offered blood-screening tests that can help determine if your baby has any testable medical conditions. Not all medical conditions can be tested for in a prenatal blood test, so discuss with your healthcare provider what information these tests will provide.

You will likely also be offered a special test called a glucose challenge test. This test helps determine if you have gestational diabetes. The test is typically offered between your 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, but if you are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes your healthcare provider may suggest this test earlier in your pregnancy.

What happens during my third trimester appointments?

During your third trimester appointments your healthcare team will continue to monitor your and your baby’s health. During the third trimester your doctor will also determine the baby’s position for delivery. If your baby is facing butt first (also called breech) your healthcare provider may offer an ultrasound-guided procedure to adjust the baby’s position so that it can be delivered vaginally.

Throughout all three trimesters, remember that your healthcare team is there to support you. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or raise any concerns that you may have.

References

1. “Prenatal Care: 1^st Trimester Visits”. Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic. 06 August 2022.
2. “Prenatal Care: 2^nd Trimester Visits” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic. 04 August 2022.
3. “Prenatal Care: 3^rd Trimester Visits” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic. 28 July 2022.
4. “Ultrasound in Pregnancy” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic. 28 September, 2022.