×

Blog

How to Make the Most Out of Your First Prenatal Visit and What to Ask

With your first child, there are numerous questions you’ll have and a multitude of things you have to take care of before the big day. Of course, one of the most important of these tasks is your prenatal visits and ensuring that you and your baby are in good health.

However, with so much on your mind, not to mention regular life continuing all around you, it can be hard to ensure that you get the most out of that first prenatal visit. With that in mind, we put together this quick guide to help you with this all-important requisite.

What (and Who) to Bring to Your First Prenatal Appointment

Make sure you bring a list of any medications that you’re taking, including their dosages, and be sure to include and herbs or supplements that you’re taking as well. Do a little homework and try to find out a little family history if you can. Has anyone had any risk factors in pregnancy, such as hypertension, ectopic pregnancies, or gestational diabetes? What about your partner’s family history? If you’re pregnant via donor, attempt to obtain their medical history.

And speaking of your partner, take them with you to the first prenatal visit. First-time pregnancies can be a lot to take in, and having a support system that can help you remember questions or concerns can definitely come in handy.

 

7 Questions to Ask Your Provider

To make the most out of your visit, you should have specific questions that you should be sure to ask.

 

  1. Who will deliver my baby?

To get a feel for their overall birthing philosophy, meet the doctors and midwives and ask who exactly will be delivering your baby, what hospital will be used, and the number of providers you’ll have access to.

 

  1. How much weight should I gain?

Most providers will calculate your ideal Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine your ideal pregnancy weight.

 

  1. Who do I call with questions or concerns?

You’re going to have questions, especially during the first few months. Find out who you can contact and if there is a 24-hour nurse available for calls.

 

  1. Are my medications safe?

They will help determine if anything on your list should be stopped or replaced.

 

  1. What vitamins should I take?

Ask whether they recommend a specific prenatal vitamin or whether there’s one that’s covered by your insurance.

 

  1. Should I get a genetic screening?

Depending on your risk factors and how far along your pregnancy is, the doctor may have recommendations in this area.

 

  1. Should I get tested or vaccinated for COVID-19?

Your doctor will make recommendations for you and your baby based on the most recent CDC guidelines.

 

Your first prenatal visit is important, and at Keys Med Spa, Dr. George Peterson and his staff will ensure that your questions are answered, and your concerns are completely addressed. When it comes to obstetrics in the Key West area, Dr. Peterson has more than 30 years of experience as an OB/GYN and is one of the area’s most beloved obstetricians.

 

Call (305) 293-9555 to schedule your first visit.