Teen Pregnancy Forum - First Doctor's Appointment

Congradulations sarah!!! Yay!!!
At your first appointment this is what will happen:

1) they will start off with taking your health history
she'll want to know what day your last period started on (so she can determine your due date); whether your menstrual cycles are regular and how long they usually last; details about any gynecological problems you have now or had in the past; details about any prior pregnancies; details about any other medical problems you have, including mental health issues, drug allergies, and prior operations; any possible exposure you may have had to potentially hazardous substances (bring a list of possible "suspects," especially if you live or work near toxic materials); about your relationship with your partner and whether there are any domestic violence issues in your household; and finally, about any current and past habits such as smoking, drinking, and drug use.

2) take your family health history
she'll want to know whether any of your relatives or your baby's father or his relatives has ever had any chronic diseases. Many health problems are hereditary, so knowing your family's medical history may help your healthcare provider be vigilant for any potential problems. She'll also ask if any relatives have any problems that may indicate a genetic abnormality. This will help her decide whether to refer you to a genetic counselor and whether to consider testing such as amniocentesis.

3)check you out and do some tests
first, she'll give you a thorough physical, including a pelvic exam. She'll also take a pap smear (unless you've recently had one) to test for abnormal cells or cervical cancer. Then she'll conduct routine blood tests to identify your blood type, rh factor, and whether you're deficient in iron, which can lead to anemia. She'll also test you for syphilis, hepatitis b, and for immunity to german measles (rubella) and offer to test for hiv. Depending on your ethnic background and medical history, you may also be tested for sickle-cell anemia, tay-sachs disease, and thalassemia. She'll also conduct a urine dipstick test to check for signs of diabetes, urinary tract infections, and other problems. Finally, she'll test you for diabetes if you're significantly overweight, have a family history of diabetes, or previously gave birth to a large baby.

4)let you know what's coming
she'll suggest you schedule an ultrasound or sonogram (usually between 16 and 20 weeks); give you advice about how to eat right and what kind of weight gain to expect; describe the common "discomforts" of pregnancy; and warn you about symptoms that require immediate attention. If you're over 35, she'll explain the pros and cons of having a nuchal translucency screening or first trimester combined screening, an ultrasound with or without a blood test given at 10 to 12 weeks, or a multiple marker screening (afp) (a blood test given between 15 and 20 weeks). Both of these screenings can give you some information about your baby's risk of having certain chromosomal problems and birth defects. Finally, she'll describe the optional prenatal diagnostic tests that you may want to consider.

Luv ya,
kristin