What Happens at a Prenatal Care Check-Up Appointment?

Pregnancy is a very exciting time for expecting parents, there is however, there is still a lot that people need to do after confirming they are pregnant. One of these things is prenatal testing. Two different types of prenatal tests can be done, and we will go into further detail on what they are and their purposes. These prenatal tests will occur at certain points during the pregnancy, with one normally happening in the first trimester and the other during the second and third trimesters.

Prenatal screening tests are done first, this test is used to determine if they have any genetic disorders or certain birth defects. This test is usually done once during the first trimester and once during the second trimester to make sure the development is happening appropriately and to continue to monitor if any changes are happening regarding birth defects or genetic disorders. If this test shows any signs of disorders or defects, your doctor may recommend you have a diagnostic screening done.

Diagnostic prenatal screenings sound like what they are, they are used to diagnose any defects or genetic disorders the fetus may have during development. This can also be used in the case of “geriatric pregnancy” which is a pregnancy when a woman is above 35 years old and is called this because of the risks associated with pregnancy at this age, or for those with a family history of genetic disorders. Diagnostic testing is much more invasive than prenatal screenings, as it can involve chorionic villus sampling.

Ultrasounds, also known as sonograms, take images of the inside of the body, which is why they are used for pregnant women, as they can then see the fetus before it is born. By using soundwaves, the ultrasound technician or doctor can show images of the baby in the womb, which can be used to monitor the development of the baby as well as determine the sex of the baby if the parents desire to know. They can also be used to determine the age of the baby, to see if there are multiple babies such as twins or triplets, and to view the heartbeat and muscle tone of the baby.

There are multiple different types of ultrasounds which include the commonly known 2D images that many parents receive after their first ultrasound appointment, there are also two other image options that could be available to you, which are 3D ultrasound images that can show you the baby’s face and 4D ultrasounds which is similar to the 3D ultrasounds but are in a video format so you can see the movements.

Prenatal care visits are here to help you monitor and care for your needs during your pregnancy. The most common things to expect during your prenatal visits are health and wellness exams to monitor your overall health, blood pressure, and if you develop pregnancy-induced diabetes. Your doctor may also review what prenatal vitamins you should be taking, recommend vaccinations you may need like the flu shot, pelvic exams, and pap smears, and determine your due date. Prenatal care is a very important aspect of becoming a parent, as the doctor will also go over in detail things like bonding, breastfeeding, soothing, and how to get rid of gas if it causing your baby discomfort. We also will go over any questions and concerns you have regarding the pregnancy and post-partum, from recommendations for sleep patterns to things such as vaccines for the baby and how frequently to have check-ups.

Julia Barriga MD PA is here for all your prenatal care in Tampa FL, with her experienced team in prenatal care and pediatric care you can rely on. Known for her support that goes above and beyond to make sure you have the best care possible.

Prenatal appointments provide exciting experiences like hearing a baby’s heartbeat, having an ultrasound, and determining sex, with initial sessions lasting 1-1/2 hours, followed by shorter ones. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5001 East Busch Blvd Tampa, FL 33617. We look forward to meeting you! We serve patients from Tampa FL, Terrace FL, Thonotosassa FL, Lutz FL, Greater Carrollwood FL, Lake Magdalene FL, Westchase FL, and Town ‘N’ Country FL.