A happy and healthy birth experience begins with top-of-the-line pregnancy and prenatal care. At Cary OB/GYN in Morrisville and Cary, North Carolina, the experienced OB/GYN team of doctors and a nurse practitioner work together to ensure that you get the attentive and compassionate prenatal care you and your baby deserve. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
Pregnancy & Prenatal Care Q & A
When do I need pregnancy and prenatal care?
Schedule your first visit when you have a positive home pregnancy test, or at around eight weeks gestation. For a healthy pregnancy, the schedule of visits with an OB/GYN is:
- Monthly until 28 weeks
- Twice monthly from 28-36 weeks
- Weekly from 36 weeks to birth
Your Cary OB/GYN will create a prenatal schedule personalized for you, so if you have a high-risk pregnancy, you may need more frequent checkups starting from early pregnancy.
When are my ultrasounds during pregnancy?
During your first visit to Cary OB/GYN, you’ll have an ultrasound to verify the pregnancy and to establish your due date. You’ll also get to hear your baby’s heartbeat for the first time!
At around 20 weeks, you’ll have another ultrasound. The 20-week ultrasound monitors your baby’s growth. During this 20-week ultrasound, you may be able to learn the sex of your baby (if you like).
At this time, you’ll also do another round of blood work to check for potential complications. By identifying these problems early, your OB/GYN can treat them effectively so you can have a smooth labor and delivery.
What kind of tests do I need during pregnancy?
During your first visit to Cary OB/GYN, your care provider will discuss all the necessary and optional tests with you. In addition to your ultrasound, you’ll have blood work and a Pap smear during your first pregnancy checkup. These tests check for STDs, other infections, and deficiencies.
At around 26-28 weeks, you’ll have a gestational diabetes screening. Depending on your results, you may need a glucose tolerance test as well. Your Cary OB/GYN care provider may recommend other tests based on your needs.
What about genetic testing?
You may opt for genetic testing based on your risk level or personal preference. In the first trimester, genetic testing includes blood screening and specialized ultrasound. A second-trimester blood test called the maternal serum screening can check for chromosomal disorders and neural tube defects.
Depending on your situation, you may also have an amniocentesis to check for birth defects like Down syndrome and spina bifida in your second trimester.
Which OB/GYN delivers my baby?
All of the Cary OB/GYN nurses and doctors work together throughout your pregnancy to ensure that you get optimal care. You’re encouraged to meet each of the OB/GYNs at least once during your pregnancy so you are acquainted with the doctors before your delivery.
Explainer Videos:
Get Your Recommended Tdap Vaccine during Pregnancy
Get Your Recommended Flu Vaccine during Pregnancy
Additional Information:
Anxiety and Pregnancy: Learning the Symptoms and Finding Help
Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
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