← All services · Women's health and pregnancy
Routine prenatal visits
prenatal checkup · antenatal appointment · routine pregnancy visit · prenatal care
Regular doctor visits during pregnancy. The doctor checks your health and your baby's growth.
For all pregnant women, on a schedule: less often at first, more often closer to the birth.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Urine sample. A urine test is often needed at each visit. Collect your first morning urine in a clean container.
- Questions. Write down questions between visits so you do not forget.
- Clothes. Wear something comfortable that lets you uncover your belly easily.
What to bring
- Your pregnancy record
- Test and ultrasound results
- A urine sample, if you were asked
- Your ID
How it goes
- You are weighed, and your blood pressure is checked
- The doctor asks how you feel
- Your belly is measured with a tape measure
- In the second half of pregnancy, the doctor listens to your baby's heartbeat
- Your test results are reviewed, and new tests are ordered
- The date of your next visit is set
What you'll feel
- Usually nothing unpleasant
- A pelvic exam is not done at every visit
Afterwards
- Have your tests and ultrasounds on schedule
- Keep notes on how you feel and how your baby moves
- Come on the set day, even if everything is fine
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding or leaking fluid: call emergency services
- A severe headache, spots before your eyes, or sudden swelling: call emergency services
- Your baby is moving much less than usual: see a doctor urgently
- Contractions before your due time: call emergency services
Common questions
How often do I need to see the doctor?
Usually once a month at first, every 2 weeks in the second half, and every week at the end. Your doctor will tell you.
Why a urine test every time?
It catches protein, sugar, and infection early. This matters for you and your baby.