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Prenatal care: First trimester visits

Pregnancy and prenatal care go hand in hand. During the first trimester, prenatal care includes blood tests, a physical exam, conversations about lifestyle and more.

Prenatal care is an important part of a healthy pregnancy. Whether you choose a family physician, obstetrician, midwife or group prenatal care, here's what to expect during the first few prenatal appointments.

The 1st visit

When you find out you're pregnant, make your first prenatal appointment. Set aside time for the first visit to go over your medical history and talk about any risk factors for pregnancy problems that you may have.

Medical history

Your health care provider might ask about:

• Your menstrual cycle, gynecological history and any past pregnancies
• Your personal and family medical history
• Exposure to anything that could be toxic
• Medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements
• Your lifestyle, including your use of tobacco, alcohol, caffeine and recreational drugs
• Travel to areas where malaria, tuberculosis, Zika virus, mpox — also called monkeypox — or other infectious diseases are common

Share information about sensitive issues, such as domestic abuse or past drug use, too. This will help your health care provider take the best care of you — and your baby.

Your due date is not a prediction of when you will have your baby. It's simply the date that you will be 40 weeks pregnant. Few people give birth on their due dates. Still, establishing your due date — or estimated date of delivery — is important. It allows your health care provider to monitor your baby's growth and the progress of your pregnancy. Your due date also helps with scheduling tests and procedures, so they are done at the right time.

To estimate your due date, your health care provider will use the date your last period started, add seven days and count back three months. The due date will be about 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. Your health care provider can use a fetal ultrasound to help confirm the date. Typically, if the due date calculated with your last period and the due date calculated with an early ultrasound differ by more than seven days, the ultrasound is used to set the due date.

Physical exam

To find out how much weight you need to gain for a healthy pregnancy, your health care provider will measure your weight and height and calculate your body mass index.

Your health care provider might do a physical exam, including a breast exam and a pelvic exam. You might need a Pap test, depending on how long it's been since your last Pap test. Depending on your situation, you may need exams of your heart, lungs and thyroid.

At your first prenatal visit, blood tests might be done to:

• Check your blood type. This includes your Rh status. Rh factor is an inherited trait that refers to a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. Your pregnancy might need special care if you're Rh negative and your baby's father is Rh positive.
• Measure your hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that allows the cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to other parts of your body. Hemoglobin also carries carbon dioxide from other parts of your body to your lungs so that it can be exhaled. Low hemoglobin or a low level of red blood cells is a sign of anemia. Anemia can make you feel very tired, and it may affect your pregnancy.
• Check immunity to certain infections. This typically includes rubella and chickenpox (varicella) — unless proof of vaccination or natural immunity is documented in your medical history.
• Detect exposure to other infections. Your health care provider will suggest blood tests to detect infections such as hepatitis B, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HIV , the virus that causes AIDS . A urine sample might also be tested for signs of a bladder or urinary tract infection.

Tests for fetal concerns

Prenatal tests can provide valuable information about your baby's health. Your health care provider will typically offer a variety of prenatal genetic screening tests. They may include ultrasound or blood tests to check for certain fetal genetic problems, such as Down syndrome.

Lifestyle issues

Your health care provider might discuss the importance of nutrition and prenatal vitamins. Ask about exercise, sex, dental care, vaccinations and travel during pregnancy, as well as other lifestyle issues. You might also talk about your work environment and the use of medications during pregnancy. If you smoke, ask your health care provider for suggestions to help you quit.

Discomforts of pregnancy

You might notice changes in your body early in your pregnancy. Your breasts might be tender and swollen. Nausea with or without vomiting (morning sickness) is also common. Talk to your health care provider if your morning sickness is severe.

Other 1st trimester visits

Your next prenatal visits — often scheduled about every four weeks during the first trimester — might be shorter than the first. Near the end of the first trimester — by about 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy — you might be able to hear your baby's heartbeat with a small device, called a Doppler, that bounces sound waves off your baby's heart. Your health care provider may offer a first trimester ultrasound, too.

Your prenatal appointments are an ideal time to discuss questions you have. During your first visit, find out how to reach your health care team between appointments in case concerns come up. Knowing help is available can offer peace of mind.

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• Lockwood CJ, et al. Prenatal care: Initial assessment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Prenatal care and tests. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/prenatal-care-and-tests. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Cunningham FG, et al., eds. Prenatal care. In: Williams Obstetrics. 25th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2018. https://www.accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Lockwood CJ, et al. Prenatal care: Second and third trimesters. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/anc-positive-pregnancy-experience/en/. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Bastian LA, et al. Clinical manifestations and early diagnosis of pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.

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What to expect at your first prenatal appointment

Your kickoff prenatal visit sets the stage for the rest of your pregnancy. Here's what to expect at this information-packed first appointment and how you can prepare.

When to schedule your first prenatal visit

When will your first appointment be, what happens at the first prenatal visit, how to prepare for your first prenatal appointment, what questions to ask at the first prenatal visit.

As soon as you get a positive result on a home pregnancy test , book an appointment with an obstetrician, family physician, or midwife . Depending on the practice, it's normal for another provider in the office, like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, to handle your first visit.

If you haven't yet chosen a healthcare provider for your pregnancy, that's okay. It's still important to see someone now to start your prenatal care. You can always switch to another provider later. 

Many healthcare providers will schedule your first visit for when you're about 8 weeks pregnant . Some will see you sooner, particularly if you have an existing health condition, had problems with a pregnancy in the past, or are having new or severe symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain .

If you're taking any medications or think you may have been exposed to a hazardous substance, let your provider know as soon as possible.

The first visit will probably be the longest of your prenatal appointments (unless you have complications with your pregnancy along the way). At this and all future visits, don't be afraid to raise any questions or concerns you've been wondering about – it helps to keep a running list between appointments.

Here's what your provider will likely do during your first prenatal visit.

Take your health history. Your provider will ask questions about your gynecological health, personal medical history, and lifestyle habits. Topics commonly covered include:

• Whether your menstrual cycles are regular and how long they tend to last
• The first day of your last period (to determine your due date )
• Symptoms or problems you've noticed since your last period, whether they're related to pregnancy or not
• Current or past gynecological conditions, including sexually transmitted infections
• Details about previous pregnancies
• Current or past diseases and conditions
• Past surgeries or hospitalizations
• Mental health difficulties and diagnoses
• Whether you are being or have been abused , or have another situation that could affect your safety or emotional well-being
• Smoking, drinking, and drug use
• Medications, supplements, vitamins, and herbal drugs you take
• Drug allergies

Your healthcare provider will also ask about your family medical history. Many genetic issues and birth defects are at least partly hereditary, so learning about your family history helps your medical team keep an eye out for potential issues. Let your provider know whether a relative in your or your partner's family has a chromosomal or genetic disorder, had developmental delays, or was born with a structural birth defect.

It's also important to mention any potential exposure to toxins, especially if you live or work near toxic materials.

Check you out and run some tests. You can expect a number of standard exams and tests at your first prenatal visit. Some healthcare providers will do an ultrasound , but if you don't have any medical problems or concerns, it may not be part of the routine. Here's what's typical:

• A thorough physical exam
• A pelvic exam, including a Pap smear (unless you've had one recently) to check for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea or abnormal cells that could indicate cervical cancer
• A urine sample to test for urinary tract infections and other conditions

Your provider will also order blood tests to:

• Identify your blood type and Rh status
• Look for anemia
• Check for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and, in certain cases, hepatitis C
• Determine immunity to rubella (German measles) and chickenpox

Discuss any high-risk pregnancy concerns. Many people are considered to have high-risk pregnancies , meaning there's a higher-than-average chance of health issues during pregnancy, labor, and birth. High-risk groups include those who:

• Become pregnant for the first time at age 35 or older
• Become pregnant for the first time before age 18
• Have certain medical issues that develop during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes
• Have certain preexisting health problems, such as high blood pressure , thyroid disease , or type 1 or type 2 diabetes

High-risk pregnancies need extra care. While many potential complications are treatable or temporary, some can be dangerous to both you and your baby. Your provider will talk through the risks at your first visit and throughout your pregnancy – and don't be afraid to ask questions at any point.

Explain your options for prenatal genetic testing. Your provider will offer you various prenatal screenings that can give you information about your baby's risk for birth defects and chromosomal conditions. These tests include:

• Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) , also called cell-free fetal DNA testing. Performed at 9 weeks or later, it's used to examine the little bits of your baby's DNA present in your blood.
• A first trimester screen, also called a first-trimester combined test. Typically done between weeks 11 and 13, it consists of a blood test and a type of ultrasound called a nuchal translucency .
• A carrier screening if you haven't had one already. It's a simple blood or saliva test done to see whether your baby is at risk for any of 100 genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and Tay-Sachs disease.

Finally, if you're high-risk, there are invasive genetic diagnostic tests that can tell you for sure whether your baby has Down syndrome or certain other conditions. These tests include chorionic villus sampling (CVS) , generally performed at 10 to 13 weeks, and amniocentesis , usually done at 16 to 20 weeks.

CVS and amniocentesis are invasive and may carry a small risk of miscarriage , so women who choose to have these procedures are usually those with a higher risk for genetic and chromosomal problems. Some moms-to-be choose to wait for the results of screening tests before deciding whether to have one of these diagnostic tests.

For more information, your provider can refer you to a genetic counselor .

Give you advice and let you know what's ahead. Your healthcare provider will give you information about eating well , foods to avoid , healthy weight gain , and prenatal vitamins . They'll also give you a heads-up about the common discomforts of early pregnancy and let you know which pregnancy symptoms require immediate attention .

Your emotional health is very important. Your provider may screen you for signs of depression during pregnancy . But don't wait to be asked. If you're feeling depressed or anxious, let your provider know so they can refer you to someone who can help.

The dangers of smoking , drinking alcohol, using drugs, and taking certain medications will be a topic of discussion, as well. If you need help quitting smoking or any other substance, your provider can recommend a program or counselor.

Other topics include the do's and don'ts of exercise , travel , and sex during pregnancy ; environmental and occupational hazards that can affect your baby; and how to avoid certain infections, such as toxoplasmosis . Your provider will also discuss recommended vaccinations , like the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine .

To help your visit go as smoothly as possible, try taking the following steps.

Review your medical history. Brush up on your health status so you can better answer questions. This includes information about your:

• Overall physical and mental health
• Current and past diseases, conditions and other health issues
• Current medications, including prescriptions, supplements, vitamins and herbal supplements and teas
• Fertility and pregnancy history
• Family medical history
• Partner's medical history

If possible, bring documentation along, such as immunization records or a list of your medications. You may even want to bring a baggie containing the medications themselves.

Take your partner, a family member, or friend. Another person can write down notes, ask questions, and provide emotional support during this information-dense first visit.

Get there on time or a little early. This can be helpful for filling out forms and reviewing your insurance. Make sure to bring your insurance information and cash or a credit card for any necessary co-pays.

Just as your provider will ask you questions at your first prenatal visit, it's a good idea to come prepared with a list of questions for your provider. Ask anything – and don't be shy. Again, try to keep a running list in the weeks before the appointment, so nothing important slips your mind.

Here are some questions to consider if your provider doesn't bring up the topic first.

• How much weight gain is healthy for me? The first prenatal visit is a great opportunity to learn about how your body will change. It's also a good time to ask about nutrition, including which foods to prioritize in your diet.
• What are the foods I should avoid ? Raw fish and unpasteurized cheeses are long-established no-no's for pregnant people, but ask your provider for a full list of what to skip, since the accepted wisdom has changed over the years. Ask about caffeine and alcohol, too. Coffee is typically alright in limited doses, but no amount of alcohol is considered safe when you're having a baby.
• Are prenatal supplements a good choice? Your provider will likely recommend a prenatal vitamin containing folic acid and iron, both of which are needed more during pregnancy.
• Can I exercise? What about sex? With some exceptions, both are usually okay when you're pregnant. They're important to discuss, however, since certain conditions may complicate matters.
• Is it safe to keep working? If you have a physically or emotionally demanding job , you may want to ask how you can ease the effects on your body and mind.
• Is travel okay? While planes, trains, and automobiles are typically safe well into pregnancy, people with particular complications may need to limit or avoid traveling.
• Which medications are safe to take? Ask about your current prescriptions, herbal products, teas, supplements, and any over-the-counter drugs you may use, such as pain relievers and cold medicines. Non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are not recommended, for example.
• What are common symptoms of pregnancy? Your provider can tell you what to expect and how to cope. Remember to ask what symptoms are uncommon, too, and what red flags to watch for.
• What should I do in an emergency? Find out who to contact and where to go if you begin to experience new, unusual, severe, or long-lasting symptoms.
• Who will treat me over the course of my pregnancy? If your provider is part of a group practice, you may see other members of the group during appointments. They may even deliver your baby.
• Do you recommend taking prenatal classes? Whether they're in a hospital, at a university, online, or somewhere else, prenatal classes can be invaluable learning experiences for parents-to-be. On top of the usual childbirth classes you hear about, you can also find courses in everything from stress management to good nutrition and even breastfeeding.

Last but not least, ask about your next visit and schedule the appointment before leaving the office. Until your 28th week of pregnancy, you'll likely see someone every four weeks or so.

You may also want to ask whether future visits will be in-person or virtual. Certain practices offer virtual visits for low-risk patients, those whose providers aren't close by, or even higher-risk patients that need to be evaluated more often.

Was this article helpful?

NIPT (Noninvasive prenatal testing)

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

Prenatal visits: What to expect and how to prepare

What is the NT scan (nuchal translucency test)?

BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

March of Dimes. 2017. Prenatal Care Checkups.  https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/prenatal-care-checkups.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

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American Pregnancy Association. (2021). Your First Prenatal Visit.  https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/planning/first-prenatal-visit/ Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Kids Health. 2022. Prenatal Visits: First Trimester.  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/tests-first-trimester.html Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Mount Sinai. 2021. Prenatal care in your first trimester.  https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/prenatal-care-in-your-first-trimester Opens a new window  [Accessed January 2024]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022. Recommended Clinician Timeline for Screening for Syphilis, HIV, HBV, HCV, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.  https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/pregnancy/screening/clinician-timeline.html Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Alabama Perinatal Excellence Collaborative. 2015. APEC Guidelines for Routine Prenatal Care.  http://apecguidelines.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Routine-Prenatal-Care-6-30-2015.pdf Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Kids Health. 2019. Toxoplasmosis.  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/toxoplasmosis.html Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. 2017. What is a high-risk pregnancy?  https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo/high-risk Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Kids Health. 2022. What's a “High-Risk” Pregnancy?  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/high-risk.html Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. 2018. What are some factors that make a pregnancy high risk?  https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/high-risk/conditioninfo/factors Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

March of Dimes. 2020. Prenatal Tests.  https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/prenatal-tests.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2022. Carrier Screening.  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/carrier-screening Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

March of Dimes. 2020. Chorionic Villus Sampling.  https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/chorionic-villus-sampling.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Office on Women's Health. 2021. Prenatal care and tests.  https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/prenatal-care-and-tests Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2023. Nutrition During Pregnancy.  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/nutrition-during-pregnancy Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Mayo Clinic. 2022. Prenatal vitamins: Why they matter, how to choose.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-vitamins/art-20046945 Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2022. Exercise During Pregnancy.  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/exercise-during-pregnancy Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

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Your First Prenatal Visit

If you did not meet with your health care provider before you were pregnant, your first prenatal visit will generally be around 8 weeks after your LMP (last menstrual period ). If this applies to you, you should schedule a prenatal visit as soon as you know you are pregnant!

Even if you are not a first-time mother, prenatal visits are still important since every pregnancy is different. This initial visit will probably be one of the longest. It will be helpful if you arrive prepared with vital dates and information. This is also a good opportunity to bring a list of questions that you and your partner have about your pregnancy, prenatal care, and birth options.

What to Expect at Your First Pregnancy Appointment

Your doctor will ask for your medical history, including:.

• Medical and/or psychosocial problems
• Blood pressure, height, and weight
• Breast and cervical exam
• Date of your last menstrual period (an accurate LMP is helpful when determining gestational age and due date)
• Birth control methods
• History of abortions and/or miscarriages
• Hospitalizations
• Medications you are taking
• Medication allergies
• Your family’s medical history

Your healthcare provider will also perform a physical exam which will include a pap smear , cervical cultures, and possibly an ultrasound if there is a question about how far along you are or if you are experiencing any bleeding or cramping .

Blood will be drawn and several laboratory tests will also be done, including:

• Hemoglobin/ hematocrit
• Rh Factor and blood type (if Rh negative, rescreen at 26-28 weeks)
• Rubella screen
• Varicella or history of chickenpox, rubella, and hepatitis vaccine
• Cystic Fibrosis screen
• Hepatitis B surface antigen
• Tay Sach’s screen
• Sickle Cell prep screen
• Hemoglobin levels
• Hematocrit levels
• Specific tests depending on the patient, such as testing for tuberculosis and Hepatitis C

Your healthcare provider will probably want to discuss:

• Recommendations concerning dental care , cats, raw meat, fish, and gardening
• Fevers and medications
• Environmental hazards
• Travel limitations
• Miscarriage precautions
• Prenatal vitamins , supplements, herbs
• Diet , exercise , nutrition , weight gain
• Physician/ midwife rotation in the office

Possible questions to ask your provider during your prenatal appointment:

• Is there a nurse line that I can call if I have questions?
• If I experience bleeding or cramping, do I call you or your nurse?
• What do you consider an emergency?
• Will I need to change my habits regarding sex, exercise, nutrition?
• When will my next prenatal visit be scheduled?
• What type of testing do you recommend and when are they to be done? (In case you want to do research the tests to decide if you want them or not.)

If you have not yet discussed labor and delivery issues with your doctor, this is a good time. This helps reduce the chance of surprises when labor arrives. Some questions to ask include:

• What are your thoughts about natural childbirth ?
• What situations would warrant a Cesarean ?
• What situations would warrant an episiotomy ?
• How long past my expected due date will I be allowed to go before intervening?
• What is your policy on labor induction?

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What to Expect at the First Prenatal Visit

You got a positive pregnancy test —congratulations are in order! Now it’s time to plan your first prenatal visit. You might be feeling nervous (or is that morning sickness already?!), and you probably have lots of questions, but not to worry—your provider will be there every step of the way. In the meantime, you might want to brush up on what to expect at your first pregnancy appointment. Ready for answers? We’ve consulted with ob-gyns on all the important info about your first OB appointment.

When Should You Schedule Your First Prenatal Visit?

After you get that positive test, you can take a day or two to soak in the news and celebrate, but it’s a good idea to book that first prenatal visit with your chosen ob-gyn or midwife pretty soon after. (If you haven’t picked a provider yet , you’ll want to get on that ASAP!)

Andrea Braden , MD, IBCLC, an ob-gyn and founder of the lactation company Lybbie , advises to “be on the safe side and give the office a call as soon as you find out you’re pregnant.”

When Will Your First Prenatal Visit Happen?

It’s ideal to schedule your first OB appointment for when you’re around 7 to 8 weeks pregnant, says Braden. Doctors recommend this timing because that’s when an ultrasound can likely detect baby’s heartbeat . (The earliest a fetal heartbeat can be detected is around week 6, according to Cleveland Clinic .)

If you’ve had complications in an earlier pregnancy, you may want to go in earlier than 7 to 8 weeks. “Sometimes we want to watch these early pregnancies closer because with a history of complications, you have an increased risk of having complications in a subsequent pregnancy,” notes Braden.

On the other hand, if you miss the 7-to-8-week mark, Braden says the goal would be to get you in before 12 weeks, when the first trimester ends. “After that point, just get in as soon as you can because there will be some catching up to do!” she adds.

How Can You Prepare for Your First Pregnancy Appointment?

Want a handy checklist for your first OB appointment? Here’s what you need to prepare, according to the experts.

• The date of your last menstrual period (LMP). During your first pregnancy appointment, your ob-gyn will compare the LMP to an ultrasound to determine your due date , says Braden. “If the last period was irregular or unpredictable, sometimes you need to know the first day of the period before that one,” she adds.
• Your medications and medical history. Gather a list of medications and dosages to bring to your provider to discuss their safety during pregnancy, advises Michael Platt-Faulkner , DO, an ob-gyn at St. Elizabeth Physicians in Northern Kentucky. “Writing down any significant personal medical or surgical history and family history of genetic diseases is also helpful information for your visit,” he adds.
• Your pharmacy information. Your doc might prescribe prenatal vitamins or other medications, depending on your medical history, so make sure you have a convenient pharmacy in mind.
• Any questions about symptoms or other concerns. Those first-trimester symptoms—nausea, fatigue, peeing all the time—can cause anxiety. Plus, figuring out what to eat (and not to eat) and questions like “ Can I have coffee while pregnant? ” can be confusing. Platt-Faulker suggests writing all your questions and concerns down for your provider, so you don’t forget them in the heat of the moment.
• Somewhere to track the rest of your pregnancy appointments. “There will be a lot of information coming at you,” says Braden. “You want to have a place to write down future appointments and take any notes.”

What Happens at Your First Prenatal Visit?

What happens at your first prenatal visit can vary widely depending on your state and the type of practice you’re visiting, says Braden. In some practices, you get both an ultrasound and a consultation during your first pregnancy appointment, while other providers’ offices split up these to-dos.

Here’s generally what to expect at your first prenatal appointment.

Your provider may perform an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy, help determine your due date, check baby’s heart rate and check for any complications, according to Cleveland Clinic . “Oftentimes, an early-pregnancy ultrasound may use a vaginal probe and can be mildly uncomfortable—which can be helpful to know in order to be best prepared for your visit,” says Platt-Faulkner. By about 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy, your provider will be able to hear baby’s heartbeat with a small device called a Doppler ultrasound, according to Mayo Clinic .

Medical history

“Your provider will review your pregnancy, medical and surgical histories in detail,” says Platt-Faulkner. “Your ob-gyn will [also] review how any medical diagnoses, pregnancy complications or surgical history may affect your pregnancy.” Your provider will also take a look at your medication list and discuss any pregnancy-related safety concerns with the medications you’re taking. Omoikhefe Akhigbe , MD, an ob-gyn at Pediatrix Medical Group in Maryland, adds that your provider may also discuss whether there are any specialty doctors you should start seeing or continue to see.

Lifestyle discussion

Your provider will discuss the lifestyle choices you plan to make during pregnancy. (Remember that, for starters, that means no smoking or alcohol .) “You’ll learn about foods that are safe to eat in pregnancy and the way to keep yourself healthy,” says Braden. “They will answer questions about exercise, diet, nutrition, rest, common symptoms and how to treat them and what to do if you do have discomfort in pregnancy.”

Genetic testing

At your first pregnancy appointment, your provider might perform or discuss future genetic testing. “There are genetic tests that are time-sensitive and can be done as early as 10 weeks,” says Braden. “There are some that are done with an ultrasound around 12 or 13 weeks pregnant, and some that are done in the second trimester. Depending on your history and what you desire, that’ll likely be brought up.” There are some specific tests your provider may offer based on your age or family history too, she adds.

Blood testing

You’ll likely get blood drawn during your first prenatal visit. You’ll be tested for a variety of conditions, including anemia, hepatitis B, syphilis and HIV, as well as for your blood type and Rh factor .

Urine testing

For starters, your provider might test a urine sample to confirm your pregnancy, as well as to test kidney function and screen for the presence of protein, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic .

Physical exam

You can expect a full physical exam at your first OB appointment, which may include a pelvic examination and a breast exam. “If you’re due for a pap smear and you’re over 21 years of age, then you can expect that you’ll have a pap smear screening test done for cervical cancer along with an HPV test if indicated,” says Braden. “Typically, we also test for sexually transmitted infections at the time of the first prenatal visit.”

Questions to Ask at Your First Prenatal Visit

You’re likely full of questions—and that’s completely normal! Make sure to write them down—and bring this list to your first prenatal appointment in case you feel like you’re forgetting something.

• Questions about symptoms. Of course, you should bring any questions about symptoms to your appointment. Akhigbe says it’s also important to ask “when and where to call for an urgent question, what constitutes an emergency, what is an urgent question and what is a routine question that could probably wait for normal business hours.”
• Questions about testing. Which tests will you need during pregnancy? What will your insurance pay for? “Ask about common resources to use and where you can find the evidence-based information about your pregnancy and guidelines and information about tests,” advises Braden. A lot of people also want to know when they’ll find out baby’s sex , she adds. (Spoiler alert: With non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) , you can find out as early as 10 weeks.)
• Questions about your ultrasound plan. How many ultrasounds will you get? “Sometimes it depends on insurance, sometimes it depends on your medical history and sometimes it depends on your provider. Do they do them in-house or at a different center?” says Braden.
• Questions about lifestyle choices. Your doctor will review information about how to eat a healthy pregnancy diet with you, but if you have any specific concerns—such as about drinking alcohol or eating sushi—be sure to let them know.
• Questions about logistics. You’ve got a long journey ahead of you! Your provider will likely “review their practice structure, visit schedule and confirm the hospital where you’ll deliver,” says Platt-Faulkner. But if they’ve missed anything, Akhigbe recommends asking follow-up logistical questions, like how many providers you’ll see and which doctor is most likely to deliver baby. (Remember, there are no guarantees!)

There’s a lot of information to take in at your first prenatal visit. It might seem overwhelming, so make sure to bring questions, take notes and do whatever else you need to feel comfortable. Bringing your partner or a good friend along for the ride can help ease some nerves too. “If you have a support person that will be going along this journey with you, it’s always great to bring them to this visit if that’s allowed,” says Braden.

While it might feel like a lot to take in, know that your provider is there to make sure you and baby are healthy during your first OB appointment and throughout your whole pregnancy—and that you’re making a wonderful first step in your pregnancy journey.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

15 Early Signs of Pregnancy

Pregnancy Checklist: Your First Trimester To-Dos

When Do You Start Showing in Pregnancy?

Omoikhefe Akhigbe , MD, is an ob-gyn and medical director at Pediatrix Medical Group in Maryland. She earned her medical degree from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee.

Andrea Braden , MD, IBCLC, is an ob-gyn, board-certified lactation consultant and founder of the lactation company Lybbie . She earned her medical degree from the University of South Alabama School of Medicine.

Michael Platt-Faulkner , DO, is an ob-gyn at St. Elizabeth Physicians in Northern Kentucky. He earned his medical degree from the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University.

Cleveland Clinic, Fetal Development , March 2023

Cleveland Clinic, Ultrasound in Pregnancy , September 2022

Mayo Clinic, Prenatal Care: 1st Trimester Visits , August 2022

Nemours KidsHealth, Prenatal Tests: First Trimester , July 2022

Cleveland Clinic, NIPT Test , October 2022

Cleveland Clinic, Your First Prenatal Appointment: What to Expect , December 2022

Learn how we ensure the accuracy of our content through our editorial and medical review process .

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First trimester prenatal care

Welcome to the beginning of your prenatal care journey! There are many exciting changes ahead, and we’ll be with you at every step.

Your first prenatal visit

This first visit will probably be the longest, because there’s a lot to cover! To make sure you and your baby are off to a healthy start, we’ll:

• Give you a physical exam, including a breast exam, pelvic exam, and a Pap test, if you’re due for one
• Perform an ultrasound, often vaginal, to see how far along you are in the pregnancy
• Discuss your medical history, family history, and health habits
• Explain the benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your baby
• Talk with you about how to stay physically and emotionally healthy during your pregnancy, including information about nutrition, exercise, and healthy weight gain

Your first ultrasound

Another The most exciting part of this visit will be seeing your baby for the first time. At Kaiser Permanente, we do ultrasounds early so we can give you a more accurate estimate of your baby’s due date. If you come in when you’re less than 6 weeks pregnant, you won’t be able to see much yet. But after that, we should be able to see your little one’s developing body, and even black dots where the eyes and nostrils will be. The short stubs that will become your baby’s arms and legs might also be visible. 

We’ll also be able to see or listen to your baby’s heartbeat together! At 100 to 160 beats per minute, it beats about twice as fast as yours does.

Another thing we’ll do at this stage is talk to you about how you’re feeling. Many people have heard about postpartum depression , but depression is also very common during pregnancy. We’ll check in with you about your emotional health often — if you need help, we’ll connect you with the right care.

Getting your pregnancy ultrasound

To start planning your prenatal care journey, we’ll talk to you about  screening tests for common birth defects . Depending on your family health history, you may choose to have no tests, one test, or several tests — it’s up to you. 

We also encourage you to bring your support person if you can. We’re here to support them, too, and this is an exciting milestone!

First trimester pregnancy tests

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Prenatal care in your first trimester

Trimester means "3 months." A normal pregnancy lasts around 10 months and has 3 trimesters.

The word prenatal means before birth. The first trimester starts when your baby is conceived. It continues through week 14 of your pregnancy. Your health care provider may talk about your pregnancy in weeks, rather than in months or trimesters.

Your First Prenatal Visit

You should schedule your first prenatal visit soon after you learn that you are pregnant. Your doctor or midwife will:

• Draw your blood
• Perform a full pelvic exam
• Do a Pap smear and cultures to look for infections or problems

Your doctor or midwife will listen for your baby's heartbeat, but may not be able to hear it. Most often, the heartbeat cannot be heard or seen on ultrasound until at least 6 to 7 weeks.

During this first visit, your doctor or midwife will ask you questions about:

• Your overall health
• Any health problems you have
• Past pregnancies
• Medicines, herbs, or vitamins you take
• Whether or not you exercise
• Whether you smoke, use tobacco, drink alcohol or take drugs
• Whether you or your partner have genetic disorders or health problems that run in your family

You will have many visits to talk about a birthing plan. You can also discuss it with your doctor or midwife at your first visit.

The first visit will also be a good time to talk about:

• Eating healthy , exercising, getting adequate sleep, and making lifestyle changes while you are pregnant
• Common symptoms during pregnancy such as fatigue, heartburn, and varicose veins
• How to manage morning sickness
• What to do about vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy
• What to expect at each visit

You will also be given prenatal vitamins with iron if you are not already taking them.

Follow-up Prenatal Visits

In your first trimester, you will have a prenatal visit every month. The visits may be quick, but they are still important. It is OK to bring your partner or labor coach with you.

During your visits, your doctor or midwife will:

• Check your blood pressure.
• Check for fetal heart sounds.
• Take a urine sample to test for sugar or protein in your urine. If either of these is found, it could mean that you have gestational diabetes or high blood pressure caused by pregnancy.

At the end of each visit, your doctor or midwife will tell you what changes to expect before your next visit. Tell your doctor or midwife if you have any problems or concerns. It is OK to talk about them even if you do not feel that they are important or related to your pregnancy.

At your first visit, your doctor or midwife will draw blood for a group of tests known as the prenatal panel. These tests are done to find problems or infections early in the pregnancy.

This panel of tests includes, but is not limited to:

• A complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood typing (including Rh screen)
• Rubella viral antigen screen (this shows how immune you are to the disease Rubella)
• Hepatitis panel (this shows if you are positive for hepatitis A, B, or C)
• Syphilis test
• HIV test (this test shows if you are positive for the virus that causes AIDS)
• Cystic fibrosis screen (this test shows if you are a carrier for cystic fibrosis)
• A urine analysis and culture

Ultrasounds

An ultrasound is a simple, painless procedure. A wand that uses sound waves will be placed on your belly. The sound waves will let your doctor or midwife see the baby.

You should have an ultrasound done in the first trimester to get an idea of your due date. The first trimester ultrasound will usually be a vaginal ultrasound.

Genetic Testing

All women are offered genetic testing to screen for birth defects and genetic problems, such as Down syndrome or brain and spinal column defects.

• If your doctor or midwife thinks that you need any of these tests, talk about which ones will be best for you.
• Be sure to ask what the results could mean for you and your baby.
• A genetic counselor can help you understand your risks and test results.
• There are many options now for genetic testing. Some of these tests carry some risks to your baby, while others do not.

Women who may be at higher risk for these genetic problems include:

• Women who have had a fetus with genetic problems in earlier pregnancies
• Women, age 35 years or older
• Women with a strong family history of inherited birth defects

In one test, your doctor or midwife can use an ultrasound to measure the back of the baby's neck. This is called nuchal translucency .

• A blood test is also done.
• Together, these 2 measures will tell if the baby is at risk for having Down syndrome.
• If a test called a quadruple screen is done in the second trimester, the results of both tests are more accurate than doing either test alone. This is called integrated screening. If the test is positive, an amniocentesis or cell-free DNA test may be recommended.

Another test, called chorionic villus sampling (CVS) , can detect Down syndrome and other genetic disorders as early as 10 weeks into a pregnancy.

A newer test, called cell free DNA testing, looks for small pieces of your baby's genes in a sample of blood from the mother. This test is newer, but offers a lot of promise for accuracy without risks of miscarriage. It may reduce the need for an amniocentesis, and so is safer for the baby.

There are other tests that may be done in the second trimester .

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your doctor or midwife if:

• You have a significant amount of nausea and vomiting.
• You have bleeding or cramping.
• You have increased discharge or a discharge with odor.
• You have a fever, chills, or pain when passing urine.
• You have any questions or concerns about your health or your pregnancy.

Alternative Names

Pregnancy care - first trimester

Gregory KD, Ramos DE, Jauniaux ERM. Preconception and prenatal care. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies . 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 5.

Hobel CJ, Williams J. Antepartum care. In: Hacker N, Gambone JC, Hobel CJ, eds. Hacker & Moore's Essentials of Obstetrics and Gynecology . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 7.

Ormandy J. Antenatal and postnatal care. In: Magowan B, ed. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology . 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 23.

Smith RP. Routine prenatal care: first trimester. In: Smith RP, ed. Netter's Obstetrics and Gynecology . 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 207.

Williams DE, Pridjian G. Obstetrics. In: Rakel RE, Rakel DP, eds. Textbook of Family Medicine . 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 20.

Review Date 5/14/2024

Updated by: John D. Jacobson, MD, Professor Emeritus, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Related MedlinePlus Health Topics

• Prenatal Care

15 Crucial Questions Every Woman Needs to Ask Her OB/GYN During Pregnancy

What over-the-counter medications are safe, what about prescription meds that i might take, do i need to change my beauty routine, how much weight should i gain, what should i eat and avoid eating, what exercise is okay during pregnancy, what vaccinations should i get, how long can i work when i'm pregnant, what pregnancy symptoms are normal, and what's an emergency, first trimester, second trimester, third trimester, can we discuss my birth plan, what should i expect during my labor and delivery, who will deliver my baby, what's the likelihood i'll need a c-section, what should i know if i want a vbac, what support can i get if i want to breastfeed.

The bottom line: Don’t be afraid to call your practitioner if you’re unsure about anything. He or she knows this is likely a new experience for you, and can help you figure out what’s normal and what’s not.

What to Expect When You're Expecting , 5th edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Your First Prenatal Appointment , January 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Medications During Pregnancy: What’s Safe and What’s Not? , March 2021. WhatToExpect.com, How Much Weight You Should Gain During Pregnancy , October 2020. WhatToExpect.com, 19 Best Foods to Eat During Pregnancy , May 2020. WhatToExpect.com, The Best Pregnancy Workouts and Exercises You Can Do While Expecting , July 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Signs of Labor , July 2021. WhatToExpect.com, How to Create a Birth Plan , June 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Having a C-Section (Cesarean Section) , July 2021. WhatToExpect.com, How a Lactation Consultant Can Help You Breastfeed , February 2019. WhatToExpect.com, The COVID-19 Vaccine During Pregnancy , July 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Vaccines to Get Before and During Pregnancy , July 2021. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Weight Gain During Pregnancy , 2020. American Family Physician, ACOG Updates Recommendations on Vaginal Birth After Previous Cesarean Delivery , January 2011. Food & Drug Administration, Advice about Eating Fish , December 2020.  Kristina Mixer , M.D., OB/GYN, Spectrum Health United Hospital, Greenville, MI. Karen Deighan , M.D., OB/GYN, Loyola University Medical Center, North Riverside, IL.

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