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When Should I Consult a Doctor for My Pregnancy?

How soon should I make a pregnancy appointment?

It’s recommended to call a doctor as soon as you receive a positive result on your pregnancy test. Some clinics may be able to fit you in immediately to confirm your pregnancy or put you on a waiting list. The first prenatal appointment itself usually takes place between 6 weeks and 10 weeks of pregnancy.  You will need to see your family doctor or specialist to arrange a referral letter prior to your first appointment.

While waiting for your first appointment, it’s important to start practising basic habits such as eating a healthier diet or avoiding alcoholic beverages to support your pregnancy. 

What should I prepare for my first prenatal appointment? 

1. Your medical record 

Your doctor will ask about you and your partner’s medical history, or any hereditary conditions in your family. It’s also helpful to share a list of medications or vitamins that you’re currently taking. Consider reviewing the following information before you make your first visit to the doctor. 

• Personal medical history (immunisations, major illnesses or surgeries, allergies) 
• Mental health history 
• Gynecological history (details about your period cycle and sexual health) 
• Obstetrical history (details about previous pregnancies and deliveries) 
• Potential disease 

2. A list of questions 

Being pregnant is an exciting experience, but it can also be an overwhelming journey for the expectant mother. There is an endless list of pregnancy tips, tricks, and myths circulating out there - how do you choose the best advice to follow? Your questions may cover different areas of pregnancy and vary from the basics to the most complex. Nevertheless, your first appointment is the best time to address your pregnancy concerns and learn the best care approach for you and your baby. 

3. Take care of yourself 

Make sure that you take care of your health by staying hydrated and well-rested. You may want to start a more balanced diet to nourish yourself with enough vitamins and minerals. If you haven’t already, you should also review over-the-counter prenatal vitamins and find a pregnancy supplement that is safe and effective for you. 

What will happen at my first prenatal appointment?

1. A confirmation of your pregnancy 

Your doctor will conduct a urine and blood test to check your pregnancy hormone levels. 

2. A general check up 

You will undergo several health screenings that include: 

• General health exam that checks your heart, lungs, breasts, and abdomen.
• Blood pressure test 
• Height and weight measurements
• Overview of varicose veins and swelling 
• Examination of your pelvic 
• Assessment of the size and shape of your uterus and pelvis

3. General pregnancy tests 

You may have to undergo a series of other tests which include: 

• Urine test 
• Blood work test 
• Genetic carrier screening 
• STD test 
• Pap smear 
• Blood sugar test

4. A confirmation of your due date 

Your doctor or midwife will estimate your due date based on the date of your last menstrual period, your hCG levels, IVF dates, or an ultrasound. 

5. Consideration of antenatal care that suits you 

Your doctor or midwife will provide you with information about different antenatal care options and discuss the best model of care management for your future antenatal appointments and the birth. 

Book your appointment to see one of the best obstetricians in Melbourne 

Getting the right pre-pregnancy care is important to prevent any complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and her baby. As a certified obstetrician in Melbourne, Dr. Stephen Cole is committed to providing you with the best prenatal and postnatal care. With a specialisation in low risk to high risk pregnancy care, rest assured that you can experience the best care management and have a safe pregnancy. 

Contact us with any questions or enquiries that you may have about pregnancy care. Alternatively, you can complete our online enquiry form and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.