4 Questions to Ask During Your First Prenatal Care Visit

Medical care is a crucial aspect of a safe and smooth pregnancy. Your OBGYN will be your trusted partner in the process from the first prenatal visit. This appointment, which typically occurs by the eighth week, is often the most comprehensive. That's why it's important to ask any pertinent questions you might have, such as the following. 

For a woman with a normal body mass index (BMI) before becoming pregnant, gaining between 25 and 35 pounds is usually considered healthy. However, women who are under- or overweight may gain more or less than this amount. Your OBGYN can review your current BMI and health history to help you develop a suitable number. 

This is a personal choice based on your health needs. Women who experience a normal pregnancy can typically work until just before giving birth, provided their occupations are not overly strenuous or hazardous. Women with preeclampsia, which is pregnancy-related high blood pressure, or a risk of preterm birth may be encouraged to restrict activities as a precaution. 

Provide a list of medications you currently take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, to your doctor. In most cases, it's not known whether a medication is safe for pregnant women because it's not possible to ethically test them for possible side effects or complications. However, certain medications are associated with an increased risk of birth defects, including doxycycline, diazepam, benazepril, and paroxetine. 

Common pregnancy screenings include ultrasounds, first trimester blood testing, second trimester AFP testing, glucose tests, and sampling of placental tissue. Which tests your doctor recommends will depend on your personal and family medical history.