CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

Q&A: What Happens at OB Appointments?

What happens at all those OB appointments?
save article
profile picture of Paula Kashtan
Updated March 2, 2017
Hero Image

Good question, considering you’ll have between 10 and 15 OB visits throughout the pregnancy. During the first and second trimester, you’ll see the doc roughly every four weeks, then every two weeks through week 36, and then weekly until delivery. At every visit, your blood pressure, weight and urine will be tested. The doc will also check the fetal heartbeat,and around week 20 start measuring your belly’s growth and checking baby’s position. As your due date approaches, she’ll also start checking your cervix’s effacement (the amount it has shortened) and dilation (the amount it has opened) to judge the imminence of labor. Throughout your pregnancy, your doctor will look for symptoms like swelling in your hands and feet (a possible sign of preeclampsia) and varicose veins in your legs. Depending on the week, you’ll also be given various prenatal screenings.

In addition to all this poking and prodding, you’ll have a chance to ask questions and discuss your concerns. Keep a list of anything that comes up between visits so you won’t forget to ask when you have the chance. Your doc will fill you in on the changes to expect in the coming weeks,and let you know what is normal and what may be a cause for concern. If you plan to take any supplements, over the counter medications or herbal teas, bring them along and let your doc check the label first. Also, consider bringing your partner to a visit or two — it’s a good way to include him in the process and prepare him for delivery.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

doctor talking to young woman in exam room
What Your HCG Levels Might Mean During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sitting on couch
Maternal Syphilis Rates Have Tripled in Recent Years, CDC Report Says
By Wyndi Kappes
doctor listening to pregnant woman's belly with stethoscope
Doctor Suggests 3 Questions to Ask Your Ob-Gyn When You Feel Unheard
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
mother wearing hospital gown and holding newborn baby in hospital room after labor and delivery
These Are the Best Maternity Hospitals in America, New Report Reveals
By Wyndi Kappes
young woman talking to doctor
What to Expect at the First Prenatal Visit
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
doctor and patient sitting and discussing medical matters
What to Expect at Your First OB Visit
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman holding ultrasound pictures at the doctor's office
What Happens at the 20-Week Ultrasound?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions to Ask at Your First OB Appointment
Questions to Ask at Your First OB Appointment
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
Reclaiming Your Power: the Role of Wellness in Your Pregnancy Journey
Reclaiming Your Power: the Role of Wellness in Your Pregnancy Journey
By The Bump Editors
Be Well Mama: a Conversation With Hannah Bronfman
Be Well Mama: a Conversation With Hannah Bronfman
By The Bump Editors
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant mom sitting with toddler daughter at home
The Bump Celebrates Black Maternal Health Week: How to Get Involved
By Wyndi Kappes
Reclaiming Your Power: Why Your Wellness Team Is So Important
Reclaiming Your Power: Why Your Wellness Team Is So Important
By The Bump Editors
pregnant woman practicing meditation at home on yoga mat
Prenatal Wellness Classes Can Cut Moms' Depression in Half, Study Says
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman looking at ultrasound pictures
Maternity Care Deserts: What They Are and How to Get Prenatal Care
By Katherine Martinelli
overhead view of pregnant woman holding a glass of water and vitamins
These Two Prenatal Pills Could Keep Baby From Developing Croup
By Wyndi Kappes
close up of pregnant belly during sunset in a field
Why 7 Million Women Don’t Have Access to the Maternity Care They Need
By Wyndi Kappes
LGBTQ couple holding hands on the beach
How to Assemble an Affirming Prenatal Care Team
By Maggie Overfelt
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman lying on exam table waiting for ultrasound
When Can You Hear Baby’s Heartbeat?
By Korin Miller
Black mother kisses her sleeping newborn's hand
White House Has Declared the First-Ever Maternal Health Day of Action
By Nehal Aggarwal
This New Bill Wants to Help Combat Inequalities in Black Maternal Health
This New Bill Wants to Help Combat Inequalities in Black Maternal Health
By Nehal Aggarwal
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List