Pregnancy

Why do I need pregnancy care?

Pregnancy care is an integral part of ensuring you and your baby stay healthy throughout your pregnancy. Early and regular prenatal care reduces your risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm labor or a low birth weight baby.

Since 1976, Physicians and Surgeons for Women have helped thousands of parents get the attentive and high-quality care they need to have a healthy and joyous pregnancy and a delivery that provides the best outcomes for all.

What can I expect during my first pregnancy visit?

Your first pregnancy care visit at Physicians and Surgeons for Women is a consultation visit and may be the longest appointment. This is a great time to ask any questions or discuss issues you may have. During this visit, your provider spends a lot of time assessing your health and answering your questions.

Though every woman’s prenatal experience is unique to their needs, at your first visit your provider may:

• Check your vitals including height/weight
  
• Confirm pregnancy
• Review your medication, medical, and gynecological history
• Review your family history
  
• Review your partner’s family history
• Perform a physical and pelvic exam
• Conduct a pap smear
• Order lab work including blood and urine tests

At this appointment, you will spend time discussing what you can expect during your pregnancy. We also offer guidance about diet, exercise, medication and prescribe a prenatal vitamin.

How many pregnancy care visits do I need?

You can expect to see your obstetrician at least 15 times throughout your pregnancy. The number and frequency of your pregnancy care appointments depend on you and your baby’s needs.

Typically, you can expect appointments once a month up through week 28 and then twice a month up through week 36. Once you reach 36 weeks gestation, you will be scheduled weekly until delivery.

If your pregnancy is a high risk, your provider may schedule more frequent appointments.

What types of tests do I need during pregnancy?

Your obstetrician will review your specific medical needs to determine the type of testing you will require during your pregnancy. The type of tests may depend on your medical history, high-risk status, and age. Testing during your pregnancy may include:

• Ultrasounds
• Genetic screening
• Glucose tolerance test
• Group B strep culture
• Blood typing and Rh factor
• Check for anemia
• Nonstress tests (NST)

Physicians and Surgeons for Women perform accurate in-office ultrasonic imaging several times during your pregnancy to assess fetal and reproductive health.

For compassionate and attentive pregnancy care from experienced board-certified providers, call Physicians and Surgeons for Women to book an appointment.