Going to the doctor when you're pregnant can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. You're getting to hear the baby's heartbeat and all, but you're concerned about this twitch you're feeling, or whatever the case may be. Doctor's visits become quite familiarized after a while, but if this is your first time going through this, read these 7 things you need to remember when going to your OB doctor.
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1. You're Going to Have to Pee
It's better to book morning appointments and save your morning pee for the doctor's office, because they're going to want to test your urine almost every time you go. It's routine to check your urine for sugar and infections that may affect your pregnancy. When you go into the bathroom, there will be a small, metal door with cups inside. There will also be a marker so you can put your name on the cup. Pee in the cup, return it to the little box, finish up in the bathroom and return to your waiting seat in comfort until you see your doctor. Pretty easy, right?
2. There's Going to Be Blood Drawn
If it's your first visit, chances are, they're going to draw some blood. It's not the most fun thing in the world, but it's not that bad! The first blood work you'll have done will include AIDS testing, to determine your blood type, RH factor, glucose, iron and to test your hemoglobin levels. All of these things are vital to proper care for you and your baby.
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3. You'll Get to See Baby!
Usually, you get two ultrasounds - one during your early pregnancy to make sure due date is correct and one midway through pregnancy to make sure everything is looking healthy. Your first ultrasound will probably be on your second visit, and will be done intravaginally. For this one, you don't need a full bladder, and it's slightly more uncomfortable than the one later on in your pregnancy. But it's such a joy to get to see your little one!
4. Remember to Ask
There is no question or concern too silly to ask your doctor or midwife. They are there to make sure you understand what's going on with your body, and want you to ask questions. It's best to grab a small notebook and jot down the questions as you think about them, so you're not sitting there talking to your doctor, trying to remember what you wanted to ask them. Get your answers and know what's going on.
5. You Need to Know Family Medical History
Your doctor will want to know if your family has any history of birth defects, heart disease, blood pressure problems, etc. It's a good idea, if you don't already know, to ask your parents and your partner's parents about medical history, that way you will be correctly informed when your appointment comes. This is to ensure that things are monitored carefully if there is a threat of facing any of these problems in your pregnancy.
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6. They May Want to Know Your Diet
For some women who show an intense weight gain or loss, your doctor may be interested in finding out in detail what you eat in a typical day. On my first pregnancy, I kept losing weight instead of gaining. My midwife asked me to keep a record of everything I ate during the day for a complete week and bring it back to her. For me, it ended up being the simple fact that I stayed so sick, and when I delivered, I had actually only gained 10 pounds for my entire pregnancy. For some, though, the lack of eating enough or overeating could really cause problems in your pregnancy, so it's a good idea to keep up with what you eat.
7. Make Sure on Your Doctor
During your first few visits, it would be a good idea for you to really evaluate your relationship with this person and how well you like them. After all, the doctor you see is more than likely the one who will deliver your baby. Is the doctor you're currently seeing someone you think you'd like to deliver your baby? If not, you'd be wise in finding another care provider soon. Personally, I love the midwife approach to delivery. They're almost like your mom or close friend. The birth goes the way you want it to go, unless they have to intervene because of medical problems. I love the fact that they're easy-going and let you try whatever you'd like. They seem to be becoming the most popular choice in prenatal care, some even choosing to have the midwife come to their home to deliver!
It's best to be prepared when going to doctor - especially when you're getting care for yourself and a little one inside you! What do you think? Do you have anything to add to this article? Please, feel free to comment!
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