Pregnancy

Please note that each and every patient and pregnancy are unique, different and special. Some items may vary depending upon your and your baby's needs.

FIRST TRIMESTER: CONCEPTION TO 14 WEEKS

• First Visit- We would like to see you when you are around 8 weeks pregnant. Expect this visit to take a little longer, there's lots of information to cover! At this visit, we will:
• Perform a confirmation pregnancy test.
• Perform an ultrasound for dating purposes. A heartbeat can usually be seen by the end of the first trimester.
• Perform blood work, usually, a complete OB panel with HIV test, depending upon your medical history, additional blood work may be done at this time.
• Perform a gynecological exam with pap smear and a complete physical examination.
• Discuss what to expect, do's and don'ts  and different ways to best keep momma and baby healthy and happy!
• Additional First Trimester Visits- expect to have a visit every month during your first trimester.  We recommend that you bring a list of questions to each visit so we can make sure we discuss any/all concerns you might have.

SECOND TRIMESTER: 14 WEEKS TO 28 WEEKS

• Visits continue once per month (unless otherwise specified)
• At around 18 weeks you will have another ultrasound to check on your baby's anatomy and gender (if you want to know).
• Towards the end of your second trimester, you will be sent for testing for gestational diabetes with a glucose tolerance test.

THIRD TRIMESTER: 28 WEEKS TO 40 WEEKS

• Your office visits will change to every two weeks until the last four weeks of your pregnancy; from then until you deliver, we will see you weekly.
• Between 28-32 is a good time to pre-register at the hospital. Speak with our office staff about what is needed to pre-register. The hospital will also have information about tours and birthing classes.
• Between 35-37 weeks we will do testing for GBS (group beta strep)
• We will start checking your cervix by internal examination for effacement (thinning) and dilation (opening), signs that your body is getting ready to go into labor.
• Around this time we recommend touring labor and delivery suites at the hospital to familiarize yourself with where your delivery will be taking place.
• By now you should also have a good idea of which pediatrician you will choose.

POSTPARTUM

• We will see you after your delivery at about 2 weeks and about 5-6 weeks after your delivery.
• We will check your cervix, uterus, and vagina to see if they have returned back to your pre-pregnancy state.
• This is usually a good visit to discuss birth control options.
• Please bring a picture of your little one to share with the staff (and feel free to bring your baby too!)

For the highest standard of prenatal care, visit Bluebonnet OB/GYN. Call or schedule online.