Pregnancy is often a time of anticipation—and questions. You may wonder what foods you should eat, when you’ll feel the baby move, and how to prepare for labor and delivery.
Many women also question how many prenatal appointments they’ll have during pregnancy. If this has crossed your mind, you’re not alone. Whether this is your first baby or it’s been a while since you’ve been pregnant, receiving accurate information is crucial.
Keep reading to learn more about the frequency of prenatal check-ups. You can also schedule a complimentary appointment at Women’s Care Center Parkersburg to learn more about your pregnancy and the resources available to help you navigate this journey.
What Is the Purpose of Prenatal Check-Ups?
Prenatal check-ups (usually called “visits” or “appointments”) are doctor’s appointments scheduled to monitor your and your growing baby’s health. An obstetrician (OB) conducts these appointments and offers specialized care.
These visits don’t just monitor your health. They also address your concerns and provide regular information on your pregnancy and overall well-being.
How Many of These Visits Will I Have?
According to Cleveland Clinic, your healthcare provider will likely suggest the following schedule:
- Weeks 4 to 28 — One prenatal visit every four weeks
- Weeks 28 to 36 — One prenatal visit every two weeks
- Weeks 36 to 40 — One prenatal visit every week
Your first prenatal visit gathers critical information about your pregnancy, such as whether it is progressing, where it is located, and how far along you are. An ultrasound provides these details. You will typically meet with a nurse first and urine and blood tests will be ordered.
The first visit also allows you to discuss any concerns with your doctor. You’ll develop a plan to address specific medical concerns, diet, exercise, and more. You will also learn your baby’s estimated due date.You will usually have a complete physical exam that includes a pelvic exam.
As your monthly visits continue up until week 28, you’ll have a weight check, blood pressure reading, urine test, and measurement of your stomach to monitor your baby’s growth.
You will also hear your baby’s heartbeat with a Fetal Doppler device (it typically detects the heartbeat around 10 weeks).
At 20 weeks gestation, you’ll have an anatomy scan via ultrasound. This ultrasound can detect your baby’s sex and identify certain structural or congenital abnormalities.
As the Birth Approaches
As you enter the third trimester and your baby’s birth approaches, these visits are scheduled closer together. More testing and monitoring are needed as you near the end of your pregnancy. At 30 weeks gestation you will have a growth scan via ultrasound. This ultrasound can detect if your baby is growing appropriately.
From week 36 onward, you’ll have weekly visits. Labor can happen anytime, and your provider will check to see whether your cervix has begun dilating and your body is preparing for birth.
Would This Schedule Ever Change?
There are times when more frequent visits are necessary. If you are having multiples (e.g., twins or triplets), have health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, or are very young or 35 years old and older, more monitoring is needed.
Though this can feel frightening to some women, these visits are scheduled to safeguard your health. They can detect problems before they become a cause for concern. You and your baby are the priority.
We’re Here For You
We’re here for you if you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and seeking referrals or emotional support. Women’s Care Center Parkersburg can help you find prenatal care providers, and we’ll be a continuous presence throughout your pregnancy.
You are not alone. Make a complimentary and confidential appointment today.