What to Expect On the First Appointment With a Gynecologist?

Here are a few things your doctor might want to understand during your first appointment.

1. Understanding Medical History

In the very first appointment, you can expect your gynecologist to talk about your medical history. Medical history includes things like your reproductive health, previous health issues, miscarriage or abortion, medical condition of your closely related family members, any history of genetic disorders, etc. For a proper understanding of your medical history, your doctor might even ask for your previous test reports.

2. Present Pregnancy Vitals

During your first visit, your gynecologist may check your vitals like heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, respiration rate, etc. Discussing the vitals at the first appointment is necessary for a smooth pregnancy. 

3. Gynecologist Examination

A gynecologist examination is the most essential part of the first appointment soon after conception. 

Here are a few things you can expect on your first visit

a) Physical Examination

Physical examination is a must. The body weight, height, breast examination, vaginal examination, etc.

b) HCG Kit Test

Sometimes women might get confused by the intensity of the pink color line on the strip. So, your gynecologist might consider a urine pregnancy test again to confirm your pregnancy. 

c) Blood Tests

Your gynecologist could prescribe certain blood tests like 

• HCG blood test to determine the exact age of the fetus.
• Complete Blood Picture to determine RBC and WBC counts
• Screening for Rh factor, rubella antibody, and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
• Pregnancy-associated plasma protein test to determine any risk of chromosomal disorder in the future.

d) Urine Test

It is crucial to screen for urine infections, and proteins, to see any kidney or bladder infection, and to detect the level of proteins, sugars, ketones, and bacteria. High sugar levels in the urine at an early stage of pregnancy indicate that you may develop diabetes in later pregnancy.

e) Ultrasound

Suppose you are more than 6- weeks pregnant. Then, an ultrasound is a must for checking the growth and development of the fetus, the heart rate of the fetus, the number of fetuses, and to determine the dates. Ultrasound before 6 weeks can only show the yolk and your tiny baby which is still in the form of an embryo. 

4. Knowing Your Due Dates

Knowing due dates is crucial for you to be prepared for the beautiful moment. And, isn’t it exciting to know about the day your baby arrives?  Ultrasound and fetal scans can determine the exact date.

You can count your due date by yourself. Pregnancy usually lasts for 40 weeks(280 days). So, start counting from the day you had your last period.

[Read : How To Calculate Pregnancy Weeks And Months?]

Top Questions You May Want to Ask on Your First Visit

Do not hesitate to express your questions and concerns to your gynecologist. Here are a few questions that you may want to ask them on your first visit. 

1. Are Over-The-Counter Medications Safe?

OTC medicines are easy to access and don’t need a prescription. During pregnancy, some women get super sensitive toward some medicine, foods, etc. So, you need to ask and discuss this with your gynecologist to avoid any sort of allergy and problems.

2. What Should I Eat and Avoid Eating?

It is important to ask about your diet for better growth of your baby. Ask your gynecologist and understand the foods you must avoid during pregnancy.

3. What Exercise is Okay During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy doesn’t stop you from being fit. However, some specific exercises can be extremely beneficial for you and the baby, while some are forbidden. You should talk about it to your doctor if you are a gym trainer or a fitness enthusiast.

4. What Vaccination Should I Get?

There are few vaccinations like flu vaccine and Tdap vaccines that are safe during pregnancy. Discuss this with your doctor and take their input. 

5. How Long Can I Work When I am Pregnant?

If you are a working woman, question yourself about your body’s capability. Many doctors suggest bed rest if they anticipate a complicated pregnancy, or some restrictions if you have conceived through fertility treatments. Consider these factors and don’t stress at work during pregnancy. 

[Read : Till When Can I Work During Pregnancy?]

6. What Pregnancy Symptoms Are Normal And What’s an Emergency?

Each body is different, some women experience a haywire of symptoms throughout, while some get rid of them as they enter into their second trimester. Symptoms like extreme one-sided abdominal pain and heavy bleeding can be alarming and may indicate a miscarriage. Ask your doctor about the common symptoms, and don’t hesitate to inform them if you feel concerned. 

7. Who Will Deliver My Baby?

It is an important question to ask and know who will be delivering your baby or be with you at birth or who will do a C-section. Check the gynecologist’s record and feedback from their previous patient for better understanding and treatment. Being sure in choosing your doctor for delivery is vital at this stage. Everything will go smoothly if you are in good hands. 

Visiting a gynecologist soon after a positive home test is important to check your health and the fetus’s progress. Because it will minimize future risks as well as suppress the problems at the early stages. Keep in touch with your doctor from then on, and never hesitate to inform anything concerning and doubtful. Regular checkup is important for healthy, smooth, and hustle-free pregnancy.

Read Also: What Prenatal Tests Are Done in The First Trimester