Pregnancy is a wonderful experience packed with joy, excitement, and a healthy dose of questions. If this is your first baby or you’re adding to your family, your initial prenatal appointment is a very important step in having a healthy pregnancy for you and your
little one. At Angel Agastya Hospital, we’re convinced that educated mothers enjoy easier, more confident pregnancies. What goes on during this critical appointment, you ask? Let us guide you through it!
Why Your First Prenatal Visit is so Critical
Your first prenatal check-up sets the tone for your entire pregnancy care. It allows your physician to evaluate your overall health, determine if you have any risk factors, and develop the optimal care for you and your baby. It’s also when you get to ask questions
about anything that concerns you and gain an understanding of what to expect.
At Angel Agastya Hospital, our skilled obstetricians and gynecologists make sure that each expecting mother is made to feel comfortable, and cared for right from day one.
When Should You Book Your Initial Prenatal Visit?
You should schedule your first prenatal visit as soon as you confirm your pregnancy. Generally, this will be approximately 6-8 weeks pregnant from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Getting in early care can help reduce possible health problems and get your pregnancy off to a great beginning.
Which documents should you carry to Your Appointment
To make the most of your visit, carry the following:
✅ Medical History – Take the Details about your health, past pregnancies, surgeries, or chronic conditions.
✅ Family History – Inform the doctor if Any hereditary illnesses in your family or your partner’s family.
✅ Medications List – Go with vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies you’re taking.
✅ Your Last Period Dates – Assists your doctor in accurately determining your due date.
✅ Questions or Concerns – Note them down so that you do not forget during the consultation.
At Angel Agastya Hospital, our staff takes the time to go over all details meticulously, providing individualized care.
What Occurs During the Initial Prenatal Visit?
Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect:
1- Extensive Medical History
Your physician will inquire about:
- Past pregnancies and deliveries
- Regularity of menstrual cycle
- History of miscarriages or fertility therapy
- Chronic conditions (such as diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure)
- Allergies or history of surgery
- Family medical history (genetic conditions, twins, etc.)
2- Physical Tests
As a standard process, a routine physical checkup usually includes:
- Height & Weight Tests – Checking your Body Mass Index.
- Blood Pressure Check– Diagnosing something like preeclampsia.
- Breast Checkup – Test for lumps and abnormalities.
- Pelvic Test – Checking the size and shape of your uterus and pelvic organs.
If a Pap smear is indicated, your physician may perform it during this visit.
3- Laboratory Tests
Some of these tests or checkups are done by your doctor for exmine the health of both baby and mother.
(I)In Blood Tests:
- Blood group and Rh factor
- Check Hemoglobin level
- Check Infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, Syphilis, Rubella immunity
(II)In Urine Tests:
Check Sugar and Protein level
(III)Thyroid function tests (if indicated)
These tests help the doctor to monitor your health during your pregnancy.
4- Estimating Your Due Date
Your doctor can estimate your due date with the date of your last menstrual period and maybe an early ultrasound exam. The accuracy of dating is important for monitoring the baby’s growth.
At Angel Agastya Hospital, we use advanced ultrasound technology for accurate dating
scans and making expectant parents feel comfortable regarding the development of
their baby.
5- Ultrasound Scan
In most instances, an early scan is performed during your initial visit to:
- .Confirm pregnancy within the uterus
- Listen to your baby’s heartbeat
- Confirm gestational age
- Check for twins or multiples
Seeing your baby’s little heartbeat is usually an emotional and happy moment for parents!
6- Counseling and Guidance
The counseling session is one of the most important aspects of the initial prenatal visit.
Your physician will discuss:
- Exercise safely during pregnancy
- Nutritious diet and supplements (particularly folic acid and iron)
- Lifestyle changes (avoiding alcohol, smoking, excessive caffeine)
- Warning signs to look out for (e.g., severe stomach pain, heavy bleeding)
- Vaccinations required during pregnancy
- Prenatal screening tests booked later on
Don’t hesitate to ask me as many questions as you’d like. No question is too trivial when it comes to pregnancy!
At Angel Agastya Hospital, we foster an open communication policy so you can feel confident and well-prepared at each and every phase of pregnancy.
We Welcome You to Motherhood
To summarize, your first prenatal appointment is the beginning of a wonderful journey! Hopefully, it is the journey of a lifetime! It might feel overwhelming, but remember you are not alone. Here at Angel Agastya Hospital, our experienced gynecologists and obstetricians are here to provide kind, compassionate care to every expectant mother.
Your well-being and your baby’s well-being are our concern. We’re here to walk you through every step with care and compassion.
If you are pregnant or are thinking of getting pregnant, don’t wait for your first prenatal checkup. Schedule a consultation today at Angel Agastya Hospital and take the first step towards a healthy and happy pregnancy!