Prenatal exams are an essential part of health care for pregnant women. When visiting an OBGYN for the first time, it’s common to have concerns and questions about the process. The following guide illustrates what goes on during prenatal exams so you can arrive at your appointment prepared.

An Introduction to Prenatal Exams for Pregnant Women

Prenatal Exam Scheduling

Prenatal exams usually take place on a monthly basis until around week 28. From there, visits will occur bi-weekly, and eventually, they will become weekly occurrences as your delivery date draws closer. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or problems are discovered during an OBGYN visit, exams may be scheduled on a more frequent basis. If you’re past your due date, it’s not uncommon to have exams every few days.

Physical Exam

The initial prenatal exam is the most comprehensive. Your OBGYN will perform a physical exam, which allows them to assess your overall health and give an estimated due date. The physical exam includes a pregnancy test, Pap test, pelvic exam, weight check, blood pressure reading, urine screening, blood screening, and a breast exam. Subsequent exams involve listening for your baby’s heartbeat, measuring your belly for growth, checking positioning, and specialized testing for genetic maladies.

Ultrasound

Ultrasounds play a significant role throughout your pregnancy. Your OBGYN can determine the sex of your child, or ensure the baby is in the proper position as your due date draws near. It can also be used to estimate the size of your baby. During an ultrasound, a doctor applies gel to a pregnant woman’s abdomen and moves a probe over the area. The probe transmits and receives sound waves, which creates an image of the baby on the screen.

Quality prenatal care is essential. OBGYN Dr. Joseph Hazan and the rest of the team at Advanced OB-GYN Services have been dedicated to providing a high level of patient care for over three decades. Along with obstetric services, they also offer infertility treatments, tubal reversal, and gynecological treatments. You can schedule a prenatal exam in Saint Peters, MO, by calling (636) 928-1800, or call (314) 291-2140 to reach the Bridgeton, MO, office. Learn more about their services on their website. With more than 6,000 babies delivered, you know you can trust these kind and caring professionals.