You recently took your pregnancy test and it was positive! Well now, it’s celebration time is over and is a time to prepare for your first prenatal visit. If you are unsure, of what to expect during your first visit you can read our breakdown that enlightens you on the first prenatal visit.

Becoming pregnant for the first time can lead to a lifestyle change. You may become excited, anxious or bewildered depending on how you receive the news- You may also be confused about what to do next? When going for your first visit it’s important to know of the possible information that your doctor may need. Here is our breakdown of what to expect in your first prenatal visit.

1. Plenty of medical history questions
To understand your medical history your doctor will ask questions on the following topics:
• Medical problems
• Psychological problems
• Date of your last menstrual period
• Blood pressure, weight, and height
• Results of your breast and cervical examination
• History of miscarriages or abortions
• Birth control methods
• Current medications
• Family’s medical history

Your provider will also ask the above questions to gauge your health status. You should present accurate responses to these questions to allow your doctor to understand your health better. Your last menstrual period (LMP) is vital for determining your gestational age and due period.

2. Several laboratory blood tests
Your doctor may draw blood from your body for conducting laboratory tests. Physical examinations are not sufficient for the doctor to make conclusions on your health- And so he/she may conduct laboratory tests for the following conditions:
• Rhesus factor ( if you test negative for Rhesus factor, your doctor will rescreen you at 26-28 weeks)
• Hemoglobin levels
• History of infectious diseases such as chicken pox and hepatitis vaccine
• HIV test
• Cystic Fibrosis screen
• Sickle Cell prep screen
• Tay Sach’s screen
• Hepatitis B surface antigen

Your doctor may also conduct specific tests on some diseases such as tuberculosis. After concluding the tests your healthcare will suggest the possible medications when necessary.

3. Discussions with your healthcare provider
Your doctor will also discuss on the list do’s and don’ts of a pregnant mother. The advice will cover areas such as:
• Travel limitations
• Type of food to eat
• Environmental hazards
• Miscarriage precautions
• Dieting, nutrition, exercise, and weight gain
• Fevers and medications

After the discussions, your doctor will give you an opportunity to ask questions. Use this chance to ask for additional on the areas you don’t understand well i.e. birth methods and pregnancy-associated issues.

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