Pregnancy follow up is a crucial part of ensuring the health of both the mother and the baby throughout the pregnancy journey. Regular visits to an OB/GYN help monitor development, detect any problems early, and provide important education to expectant mothers. Understanding what happens during these visits in the first, second, and third trimesters can help you feel more prepared and confident about your prenatal care.
This article breaks down the key steps and tests during pregnancy follow up visits, explaining what to expect and why each step matters. Whether you are a nursing student, a new mother, or simply curious about prenatal care, this guide will give you a clear picture of the process.
The first trimester visit is typically scheduled before 12 weeks of pregnancy. Sometimes, if a patient comes in very early, for example around 6 weeks, a follow-up visit may be needed about four weeks later. But for most, the first visit is a big one, packed with important assessments and tests.
At this stage, the baby is too small to detect a heartbeat using a Doppler device from the outside. Instead, an ultrasound is done to confirm the presence of a fetal heartbeat and to measure its rate. This ultrasound is the only way to verify cardiac activity during the first trimester.
In addition to the ultrasound, many labs and diagnostic tests are performed to establish a baseline for the mother's health and to identify any potential risks early on. These tests often include:
For patients with a history of pregnancy complications like multiple miscarriages, serial measurements of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels may be done to ensure the pregnancy is developing normally.
During this visit, healthcare providers also begin maternal teaching, discussing lifestyle changes, nutrition, and what to expect in the coming months. After the first trimester, visits are generally scheduled monthly until 28 weeks.
The second trimester, spanning from 14 to 28 weeks, includes several important tests and assessments that help track fetal growth and detect any abnormalities.
Between 14 and 18 weeks, a blood test called Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening is performed. This test helps identify the risk of certain birth defects. If results are abnormal, further testing like amniocentesis may be recommended.
For patients at high risk of gestational diabetes—such as those with a history of diabetes, prediabetes, or a family history—screening may begin earlier than usual.
Between 18 and 22 weeks, the most significant event is the anatomy scan ultrasound. This detailed ultrasound checks the baby's organs and structures to identify any congenital anomalies. The scan examines the heart, brain, spine, and other vital parts of the fetus.
At this time, the healthcare provider also starts measuring the fundal height. This measurement is taken from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus (fundus) and should roughly match the gestational age in weeks. For example, at 24 weeks pregnant, the fundal height should be around 24 centimeters. Significant differences may indicate growth problems or other concerns requiring further evaluation.
Between 22 and 24 weeks, a routine gestational diabetes screening is performed using a one-hour oral glucose tolerance test. If the results are abnormal, a follow-up three-hour test may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Additionally, for first-time pregnancies, a transvaginal ultrasound may be done to measure the cervix length. This helps assess the risk of preterm labor. If the cervix length is normal and no other risks are identified, this measurement usually will not be repeated.
The third trimester, from 28 weeks to delivery, involves more frequent visits and several important interventions to prepare for a safe birth.
At 28 weeks, if the mother is Rh-negative, she will receive an injection called RhoGAM. This medication prevents Rh incompatibility issues that can harm the baby.
From 28 weeks onward, pregnancy follow up visits increase to every two weeks, and then to weekly starting at 36 weeks. This closer monitoring helps detect any late pregnancy complications early.
Between 30 and 32 weeks, education becomes a major focus. Mothers are taught to perform kick counts, which means counting how many times the baby moves in a given period. This simple method helps assess fetal well-being.
At this time, the TDaP vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) is also administered. Getting this vaccine during the third trimester helps protect the newborn from whooping cough.
From 35 to 37 weeks, a nonstress test (NST) may be performed if indicated. This test monitors the baby's heart rate and response to movement to ensure the baby is healthy and not in distress.
Also, between 35 and 37 weeks, a Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening is done. This involves swabbing the vagina and rectum to check for bacteria that can cause serious infections in newborns. If positive, antibiotics will be given during labor to protect the baby.
Throughout pregnancy, the frequency of follow-up visits changes based on the stage of pregnancy:
This schedule allows healthcare providers to closely monitor the mother and baby as the pregnancy progresses and to intervene quickly if any issues arise.
Laboratory testing is a critical part of pregnancy follow up. The following tests are routinely done to ensure maternal and fetal health:
Pregnancy follow up is not just about tests and exams; education plays a huge role in supporting healthy pregnancies. During visits, healthcare providers teach mothers about:
Self-monitoring, especially kick counts starting around 30 weeks, empowers mothers to participate in their care and alert providers if there are any concerns.
Regular pregnancy follow up is essential, and choosing the right care provider makes a difference. MediHope Clinic offers comprehensive prenatal care with personalized attention, ensuring that every visit addresses your unique needs.
At MediHope Clinic, you can expect:
With MediHope Clinic, you receive more than just routine visits—you gain a partner dedicated to your pregnancy wellness.
In the first 28 weeks, visits are usually every four weeks. From 28 to 36 weeks, visits increase to every two weeks. After 36 weeks, weekly visits are common until delivery.
The first trimester includes an ultrasound to confirm heartbeat, blood tests like CBC, blood typing, STI screening, and possibly a PAP test. Tests for hepatitis B and HIV are also common.
The anatomy scan is a detailed ultrasound performed between 18 and 22 weeks to check the baby's organs and development for any abnormalities.
If a mother is Rh-negative, she could develop antibodies against the baby's Rh-positive blood, which can cause complications. RhoGAM injections given at 28 weeks prevent this issue.
Kick counts involve tracking how often the baby moves, usually starting at 30 weeks. They help assess the baby's well-being and can signal if there is a problem.
If you carry Group B Strep bacteria, you will be given antibiotics during labor to prevent infection in your baby.
Yes, the TDaP vaccine is recommended during the third trimester to protect both mother and baby from whooping cough.
Staying informed and consistent with your pregnancy follow up visits is key to a healthy pregnancy. If you are looking for expert care and support, consider scheduling your appointments at MediHope Clinic, where your pregnancy journey is our priority.
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