What is a prenatal appointment like?
At visits I check the mother’s blood pressure, weight gain, the size of her uterus and test her urine. I listen to and feel the baby, checking the baby’s position, growth and heart rate. Together, we go over the mother’s nutrition, as that is the primary way to prevent many complications in pregnancy and birth. We spend time talking and going over questions or concerns. Visits are much longer than your typical doctor visit, as we take time just to chat and get to know each other. We address any questions or concerns, discuss choices and options for care and just spend time getting to know each other, so that I can best serve you during your labor. The typical schedule of visits is: monthly visits until 28 weeks, every other week until 36 weeks and then weekly until baby’s birthday. Postpartum visits are at 1-2 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks (as needed) and 6 weeks after birth.
