Save your questions about things like insurance and directions to the hospital for the office staff so your practitioner has more time to answer your health-related questions. Ask the staff about the administrative stuff.In addition to physical complaints, let your practitioner know if you have emotional concerns or fitness or nutrition questions. Consult the notebook of questions you've been compiling. Are you having trouble controlling your heartburn? Managing your constipation? Suffering from headaches? This is the time to ask for advice. So, if anything is bothering you, say your piece. Your practitioner isn't a mind reader and won't be able to tell what you're thinking just by performing a physical exam. Here are some things you can do to ensure that your prenatal visits are satisfying: Still, you want to make sure your concerns are addressed – and that you and your baby are being well cared for. A quick visit is typical and is usually a sign that everything is progressing normally. Many people look forward to their prenatal appointments but are disappointed to find that, with the exception of the first visit, they're in and out of the office in 10 minutes. How can I make the most of my pregnancy appointments? Expect to talk about the importance of good nutrition, sleep, oral health, stress management, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs. Lifestyle issues will likely be a topic of discussion, as well. They'll also explain the normal changes to expect before your next visit, warning signs to watch for, and the pros and cons of optional tests you may want to consider. You will also discuss your delivery plan in more depth.Īt the end of each visit, your practitioner will review their findings with you. Near the end of your pregnancy, your provider may also do a pelvic exam to check for cervical changes. Closely monitor any complications you have or that you develop, and intervene if necessary.Perform other exams and order tests, as appropriate.Check your weight, blood pressure, and urine.Your midwife, doctor, or nurse practitioner will also: Your practitioner will have other questions as well, which will vary depending on how far along you are and whether there are specific concerns. They'll also ask you about your baby's movements once you begin to feel them, typically during the second trimester. Your practitioner will start by asking how you're feeling physically and emotionally, whether you have any complaints or worries, and what questions you may have. It's important that you go to all of your prenatal appointments, even if you're feeling just fine and believe that everything is progressing perfectly. The goal of prenatal visits is to see how your pregnancy is proceeding and to provide you with information to help keep you and your baby healthy. They can comfort you, take notes, ask questions, and help you remember important information. In addition to your list, you may want to bring a partner, friend, family member, or labor coach with you to some or all of your prenatal visits. Of course, if you have any pressing questions or worries, or develop any new, unusual, or severe symptoms, don't wait for your appointment – call your practitioner right away. Then, your doctor, midwife, or nurse practitioner can read the label and let you know whether it's okay to ingest. You can even bring the item itself – or a picture of the label – with you to your next appointment. You may be surprised by how many questions you have, so don't miss the opportunity to get some answers in person.įor example, before you drink an herbal tea or take a supplement or an over-the-counter medication, ask your provider about it. This way, you'll remember to ask your practitioner about them at your next appointment. In the weeks before each visit, jot down any questions or concerns in a notebook or a notes app on your smartphone. How should I prepare for a prenatal visit?
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