Your First
Pregnancy
Appointment
What to Expect at Your First Pregnancy Appointment
Discovering that you’re pregnant can be one of the most exciting and emotional moments of your life. Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, that initial prenatal visit sets the tone for the months ahead. But if this is your first pregnancy, you may be wondering: What exactly happens at that first appointment? Here’s what you can expect.
When to Schedule Your First Prenatal Appointment
Most healthcare providers will schedule your first prenatal visit around 8 weeks after your last menstrual period (LMP), unless there are health concerns that require earlier attention. However, it’s a good idea to call your provider as soon as you get a positive home pregnancy test—they’ll guide you on when to come in.
What Happens at the First Appointment?
Your first prenatal visit is often one of the longest because there’s a lot to cover. Here’s a breakdown of what might be included:
1. Medical History Review
Your provider will ask about:
- Your menstrual cycle and estimated due date
- Previous pregnancies (if any)
- Personal and family medical history
- Any current medications or supplements
- Lifestyle factors (like diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol, etc.)
Being honest and thorough here helps your provider give you the best care possible.
2. Physical Exam
You can expect a full check-up including:
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure check
- Pelvic exam and possibly a Pap smear (if due)
- Breast exam
3. Lab Work and Tests
Blood and urine tests may be ordered to:
- Confirm pregnancy and check hormone levels
- Determine your blood type and Rh factor
- Screen for anemia and infections (like HIV, hepatitis B, and STIs)
- Check immunity to diseases like rubella and chickenpox
- Screen for gestational diabetes (if at risk)
You’ll also likely provide a urine sample to check for signs of infection or other concerns.
4. An Ultrasound (Sometimes)
Some providers perform a dating ultrasound during the first visit to:
- Confirm the pregnancy is in the uterus
- Check the baby’s heartbeat
- Estimate gestational age and due date
Not all offices do this at the first visit, so check ahead of time.
5. Discussion and Education
You’ll go over:
- What to expect in the coming months
- Recommended lifestyle and dietary changes
- Prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid)
- Warning signs to watch for
- Scheduling future appointments
This is a great time to ask questions—no concern is too small!
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring your questions. Write them down ahead of time so you don’t forget!
- Bring your partner or support person. If allowed, they can help you remember details and provide emotional support.
- Know your dates. Try to have a good idea of the first day of your last period—it helps estimate how far along you are.
Insurance Coverage:
At your first prenatal appointment, the clinic or provider’s office will typically collect your insurance information. It’s important to bring your insurance card and be prepared to discuss coverage details. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover prenatal care, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on the provider and plan. You may be responsible for co-pays, deductibles, or certain out-of-pocket costs. If you don’t have insurance, ask about self-pay options, payment plans, or local programs that provide low-cost or free prenatal care. Understanding your coverage early on can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected medical bills throughout your pregnancy.
Services and Resources Available through For Every Woman:
Women’s Health Clinics
Women should have access to every resource available to them in their health journey. Women’s Health Clinics have a range of services including free pregnancy tests, STD/STI tests, and ultrasounds – all conducted by trained medical professionals.
Community referrals
Women’s Health Clinics can refer you to a network of trusted community resources to ensure you receive the support you need, including medical care, counseling, and material resources.
Education
The best way to empower women is with knowledge. Women’s Health Clinics provide a variety of educational resources including prenatal, sexual education, and education on abortion, STDs, and birth control. They’ll provide you with comprehensive information about your options and what is happening in your body during pregnancy.
For Every Woman Women’s Health Clinic Services are free of charge!
Every woman deserves access to accurate information and compassionate support, regardless of her financial situation. By providing free services, Women’s Health Clinics ensure that every woman has the access to quality health care that they deserve.
Your first pregnancy appointment is an important step in understanding your health and the development of your pregnancy. This visit is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your options, and receive medical guidance tailored to your needs. While the information provided here offers general insights, every pregnancy is unique, and consulting a qualified healthcare provider will ensure you get the best care and support for your situation. Taking the time to gather information and explore available resources can help you make informed decisions about your health and next steps.
